Izula II scales on an Eskabar???

tjswarbrick

tjswarbrick

Joined
Mar 31, 2011
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I have seen how easy it is to mod the Izula scales to fit a BK14.
However, I like how the Izula II scales go all the way around the lanyard hole, and to the edges of the tang. I have big hands, and it feels better to me.
Now, I know the Izy II has a longer handle, and there's no shame in picking up an ESEE knife.
Still, I wonder how tough it would be to make Izula II scales fit a BK14 (or BK24.)
If there's already a thread on it, point away. I couldn't find one.

What'll it take?
Just a little grinding of the insert, like the Izy I?
Some sanding of the outside portions?
Drill a hole in the tang for the forward screw?
Might as well buy some micarta blocks and make my own?

If you've tried it, please share.
If you have an Izula II and an Eskabar, and can take a couple measurements or snap a couple pics, that would be awesome.
 
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php/786671-EsKabar-vs-Izula-vs-Izula-II-vs-BK11

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php/802121-Eskabar-VS-Izula-VS-Necker

Here is a pic from that last thread there

P1010190.jpg


It is my understanding that the Izula 2 is slightly longer in the handle than the BK14, thus preventing it's scales from working on the BK14. Apparently the scales for the Izula sold on theknifeconnection can be made to fit though, and they seem pretty nice.
 
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Thanks Derek.
It looks like the forward screw mounting the II scales lands in front of the cutout in the 14, making a a no-go. But it's hard to tell for sure from pics with them all installed.
 
I haven't seen that mod attempted before but i can only image it would be clumsy and awkward at best. My hunch is that the positioning of the forward screws on the II micarta would force you to put the scales oddly on.
 
Really I think your best bet would be the G10 Izula scales over at theknifeconnection.com (not Izula II) or the micarta ones they offer for it, but those are everywhere, just type in Izula Micarta Scales and you should find a bajillion places to get them.
 
DerekH said:
Really I think your best bet would be the G10 Izula scales over at theknifeconnection.com (not Izula II) or the micarta ones they offer for it, but those are everywhere, just type in Izula Micarta Scales and you should find a bajillion places to get them.
Click to expand...

this. Holy smokes, i've been eyeballin those tkc slabs for my iz 2....they look fantastic.
 
Thanks guys. I have the TKC scales for my IZ2 and tthey arre amazing!

Just ordered. BK24 today w scale set. Who can make me an sheath for this knife? There is a forum member that starts with an A but can't remember his name. Any help would be appreciated!

Drew
 
Thanks for all the input, guys.
Just wanted to give you all an update.

Well, if I had any sense, I would have picked up the TKC Izula G10 scales. Probably could have modded 'em to fit it about 10 minutes. The ESEE micarta ones are very nice, but they don't add enough bulk to make it worthwhile, for me.
On a budget, I'd go with the BK14 zytel scales and stipple them a bit.
However, I like to do things the hard way. And I've gotta say, now I have just what I wanted.

After working them up, I thought of a few possibly less difficult ways to integrate the inserts. But I simply ground down some micarta slabs to make it (mostly) fit.

24withinnerscales_zps967d870b.jpg


24_zpsee9402fa.jpg


Finished product is a lay-up of burgundy linen micarta, white G10, and layered brown/natural burlap mycarta. Between making the mycarta, forming the laminate, and shaping the scales I probably have 18 hours labor into these little guys. Not to mention that the epoxy, burlap, G10 and micarta combined probably saved me less than $10 over buying the G10 ones. I don't know how guys can make scales by hand and make any money at all.

I thought of trying my hand at sheathmaking, but I just don't think I'm ready yet. I'm interested to learn, but fearful that it'll take me 3 tries to bend something, either kydex or leather, that I'm happy with and can use. So,

I'm getting a leather sheath from kelleycustoms - should be here any day. Skystorm is also very highly regarded for his leatherwork for the Becker family. I hear azwelke does excellent kydex work, and the710 does very functional combinations of the two.

- Tom
 
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Those scales are beautiful!
You might not have saved a bunch of money making your own scales, but you definitely own something truly unique now.
Great job!
 
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