Protech Malibu Wharncliffe

[Cornfed801]

Hey All,
I recently bought a Protech Malibu Wharncliffe with the smooth scales. The blade has been acid washed and I got it for a pretty good deal so I’m ok modifying it and just keeping it. My question is has anyone modded the scales to give them some grip? The scales are so smooth that when wet become slippery.

 

[Yo Mama]

I would not do it but you could always add some grip tape in a few key areas, unless you are prepared to mill the scales, which I definately wouldn't.

Protech does have a version that is texturized. I've not found the same issue with the smooth version being to slick, only because Protech cakes on the anodizing like no joke.

 

[bigsurbob]

Sweet knife...

Whatabout just sanding them with some medium grit?

 

[Hackenslash]

I’m not sure if he works on aluminum, but WValtakis is a master at engraving beautiful, functional designs in metal.

 

[WValtakis]

I’m not sure if he works on aluminum, but WValtakis is a master at engraving beautiful, functional designs in metal.

Unfortunately, there's a risk of flaking at the edges of the cut when using traditional methods like chisels on anodized aluminum...one material where lasers have a distinct advantage.

 

[Cornfed801]

Ya I really like the knife. The blade is 20CV and I love the wharncliffe. It’s just the handles get so slick I am worried if I go to use it and my hands are wet I’ll cut myself.

 

[LimpCroissant]

Hmmm, I wonder if DNA Lasering would laser engrave a sent in knife. They sell really cool engraved scales, but usually you just buy the scales or knife from them. You might also want to check with Way of Knife. If either of those work for you, make sure you get the "deep laser engraving", it will give valleys and ridges to the texture instead of just like a normal laser etching. Maybe Knife Modders also. I haven't used any of these services but I see them around and have heard good things.

 

[Cornfed801]

Hmmm, I wonder if DNA Lasering would laser engrave a sent in knife. They sell really cool engraved scales, but usually you just buy the scales or knife from them. You might also want to check with Way of Knife. If either of those work for you, make sure you get the "deep laser engraving", it will give valleys and ridges to the texture instead of just like a normal laser etching. Maybe Knife Modders also. I haven't used any of these services but I see them around and have heard good things.

Thank you for the advice. I will definitely look into all the options you listed.