Micarta handle with or without rivets

selfinflicted

selfinflicted

Joined
Oct 1, 2003
Messages
611
I think I've decided on a Grohmann "Survival" fixed blade, stainless, flat ground, with micarta handle. This knife gives me a modified chef's design, 5 1/2" blade, a quality all around package for less than $85. I have the no cost option of getting the micarta handle with or without brass rivets. My question is, do the rivets provide a positive purpose, i.e., securing the micarta to the tang better, or are they more for show? Most of the custom fixed blades I see on the net combine rivets with micarta, so I'm thinking there's probably a benefit.
Also, the knife's $20 less with a rosewood handle, but I'm thinking the micarta would grip better and make the knife look a little more custom and a little less kitcheny, sound right?
 
Hello!

Good choice on the Grohmanns. They are awesome blades. The micarta will be more durable than the rosewood for sure. I don't look at Grohmanns and see kitchen, but that i sbecause I have seen a lot of wood handled outdoorsy blades. Then again, Rosewood and other woods are often seen on Kitchen blades, so I see your point! Personally, I'd pic the micarta because of the durability. But both are fine materials. The rosewood will wear very well, so ti isn't liek Rosewood is bad. The micarta might make it look more "customy", though, as you said. As far as rivets go, that construction is good. You get a mechanical fit as well as a chemical fit (epoxy bond). I'd go for the rivets if possible.

So, definitely rivets, but rosewood vs. micarta is a personal option. If you go rosewood, don't feel like you have a lesser knife! I know a guy who carries his Grohmann bird and trout daily, and has for the last 6 years or so, and it is alive and kickin'!


Enjoy your blade.
 
Get the rosewood handle. It's prettier and will stand up as well as micarta as long as you don't plan on leaving it outside in the sun and rain for a few years. Get the rivets. It's prettier and adds strength. I've seen epoxy fail, although its rare.
 
I recommend the rivets and the micarta for durability, rosewood is fine if you care for it, don´t let it dry out, also it´s a bit more prone to cracking and chipping. I rub sweet almond oil on wood handles once in a while to keep them good and pretty.
 
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