Questions about Micarta

I don't know all of the particulars but, what I do remember hearing is that it has actually been around since the '30's or '40's or so. It was invented as an insulator for electrical systems, Like a substitute for the glass insulators they use to use on the poles way back when. I think the name that I have heard associated with this was White-Westinghouse.

Unfortunatly, I don't know anything more specific than that and I don't even know if this info is actually correct or now, but it's a start.

Good luck and Take care.

Andy
 
Micarta is a westinghouse trademark or tradename,it was used as insulting matl.,in radios,transformers,etc.,it is also used to make gears out of,as they only require water for lube.Knife handles are probably the smallest quantity use of micarta.Im sure it has many more uses.

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MJH
 
Hey Guys..

Before Micarta there was Bakelite..
Used for everything from Gun parts to radio cases and is still used today on some knives..

I believe the AK47 bayonets use a form of Bakelite on some models..

ttyle

Eric...

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On/Scene Tactical
Leading The Way In Quality Synthetic Sheathing
 
I did a search in the archives and came up with a couple of threads that had some good info in them.

Here is a nice explanation from James Mattis:
http://www.bladeforums.com/ubb/Forum1/HTML/001359.html

Here are two that debate and compare between G10 and Micarta:
http://www.bladeforums.com/ubb/Forum32/HTML/001065.html
http://www.bladeforums.com/ubb/Forum32/HTML/002992.html

These were the main three that had good information on Micarta in the 3 old Forums. Did you know that in Year 1 alone you come up with 192 respones to a search for Micarta? Search in the subject only and you only get 7!

Have fun!

Andy

I always seem to screw up these links!!!

[This message has been edited by Andy Wilson (edited 01-28-2001).]
 
The first time I recall mention of the term was in relation to insulating material used in capacitors.


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Hoodoo

I get some pleasure from finding a relentlessly peaceful use for a combative looking knife.
JKM
 
So far here is all I can find: Micarta was invented in 1910(!) by Daniel O'Conor and Herbert Faber, White Westinghouse employees until a few years later, when they left and introduced Formica to the world, in 1913.
I had a M1 helmet liner that was made out of Micarta. It was made in the 1940's, and had a little sticker on the underside stating that it was "another fine product made of Micarta."
 
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