Overmolded VS. Scales?

[bradrian]

Over the years, I've grown fond of my Gerber LMF II; it's *almost* the perfect combination of features for my needs. What I DON'T care for is its overmoded rubber handle, and I'm wondering what other options are available. Most specifically, I'd like to know:

-- In the "Overmolded vs. Scales" consideration, am I overlooking any significant benefits of an overmolded handle?
-- Under what circumstances (other than for cleaning convenience) are removeable scales really desirable?
-- Is it possible to remove the overmoded handle of the LMF II and create some type of removable scales?

Thanks!

 

[KingMC]

Overmolded handles keep the tang from exposure, which means the handle is arguably more comfortable in cold weather due to you not being able to touch the bare metal of the tang. Overmolded handles also have more padding for your handle in the meat of the palm, where the tang of the blade would otherwise put pressure.

Removable scales usually are easier to replace if you damage the handle, also they are often sturdier due to the fact that overmolded handles don't often have the tang as thick vertically as the handle is, resulting in a weaker tang. (not a huge problem, just something to consider). Otherwise, I can't think of a reason one would be better than the other as far as practical use.

I don't know of the handle of the LMF II can be removed easily, but I'm sure you can if you know what you're doing. As far as 'why', I don't really see the point other than if you really like the blade shape, since there are plenty of other fixed blade options with scale-style handles that are just as affordable.