Optimal scale dimensions

[Greenberg Woods]

Hey guys, As you may know i have been making quite a few handle scales recently, but as i get into more and more expensive woods, i wanted to know what dimensions you guys like to use, and more importantly pay for. I normally mill my scales as 2 by 5 or 2 by 6 inches, but when im using rarer woods this can really reflect in the costs.

What do you guys think about 1.5 inch wide scales?

Do you prefer to buy 6 inch long scales and just pay for the extra inch of safety?

What size handle do you like for wa handles?

Basically, assuming you are paying for every cubic inch "because you are" what size scales do you find to be the most useful for the value?

 

[samuraistuart]

Ben, I replied to your PM, but just in case, my opinion is 1.5" x 6". 5" is too short for my chef's knives.

 

[i4Marc]

I am most interested in bowie blocks. But my handles typically have a bit of drop. I like blocks in the 1"-1+1/8" thickness range and 2.5" X 5.5-6".

 

[Matt Rochester]

I say Marc is right on if its blocks. If its scales then im good with 1.5x5.

 

[Greenberg Woods]

So blocks you like big. How often do you prefer whole blocks VS sliced in half?

 

[Matt Rochester]

I like whole blocks because I use a lot of 1/4" think scales and I can usually get 2 sets out of a block. It's usually cheaper in the long run.

 

[i4Marc]

Whole blocks. I can cut them down if I need to. If you have raw material that isn't thick enough for blocks then by all means go with scales.

 

[CUTS LIKE A KRIS]

I like what Burl Source does by offering to split blocks if you need after ordering. I like some split and others left whole, plus if using a new wood, buying one set of scales and one block will give you ideas of how the wood changes figure as you get into shaping the handle.

I buy scales/puuko sized slabs, Bowie slabs, sheets of wood.... With no I visioned purpose yet so I'm not the best to talk of size, I just like wood!