Looking for an opinion.

[SVTFreak]

I think I'm going to have a custom slip joint made by one of our supporting makers. I really love his work. But I am torn on scale material. I really like red dyed wood, iron wood burl, black ash burl (kinda green looking), mammoth ivory and ebony wood. Also, orange -g10 but I think I'll have that one made later on. Anyway, if you had to pick one for yourself, which would it be?

 

[Chuck Gedraitis Knives]

You have to decide on whether you will be carrying this knife or not? If you will carry it then I would go for a material not affected by moisture or humidity. Ironwood, ebony any synthetic would do.

If it is for occasional carry say on special nights out then mammoth would be ok.

 

[SVTFreak]

I will be carrying and using this knife. I'd like to think all the time but I know I'll switch up. It could see some motor oil. It'll definitely see food prep. And certainly see blood and guts. It'll be washed in soap and water. It'll see dirt and garden uses.

Right now I'm leaning towards the orange g10 if it won't be affected too bad by the above conditions.

Most car work will be done with a beater knife but I can't promise it won't see some of that and brake dust and grease. I try not to do that with my good blades though.

 

[Matthew Gregory]

Consider letting the maker choose, with your approval. Sometimes they might have more insight on selection, or maybe even a cool material they were saving for something special!

 

[brownshoe]

How a knife will handle tough use depends upon construction as well as materials. For example if you want a thin strong knife then maybe g10/micarta/carbon fiber and steel liners are your best bet. However if you want traditional look and strong, heavy brass, thick nickle silver bolsters and thick bone will do too...but it won't be thin.