Scales, Factory or Aftermarket ????

S

sd550

Joined
Oct 9, 2004
Messages
693
Just wondering how many of you have purchased aftermarket scales and then later decided to go back to the original grivory/nylon scales. I know that I have went back to the original scales and like the balance and feel of them better. Give us your thoughts on this.
 
I'm a micarta guy and I mostly like micarta for my fixed blades. Not that there is anything wrong with the factory handles, but I like something different every now and then!
 
I've swapped some, and have never felt inclined to switch them back...by the same token, I have some with stock handles that I've used for years; and I've never been inclined to change those, either.
 
I have two BK16s one with micarta, I bought the aftermarket scales because everyone spoke so highly of them. While I do like the added grip that they provide I actually prefer the feel of the grivory. The awesome handle geometry provides quite a bit of protection against hand slipping with the grivory unless my hands get wet. I compare the grivory to an axe handle that is equally slick but works just fine. Lately I do find myself grabbing the bk16 with factory scales more often. I would guess I am in the minority's as everyone seems to love micarta.
 
I bought a Machax that had micarta scales on it. After using it for awhile something just didn't feel right. I swapped out the factory scales from my Bk9 King. What a difference for both. I love the micartas on the King and the factory on the Machax.
 
Last edited:
Bought a couple, made a bunch. G10, Wood, mycarta, shadetree phenolics.
Making some now.
I always add liners.
Never gone back to grivory.
But when I've used 'em before switching out, I've never encountered problems with slippage or hotspots. Just prefer other materials.
They have all changed the balance a bit, too.
 
Micarta

YG5VrIF.jpg
 
The only Becker I currently own is a BK2, and I have changed it to micarta. Can not imagine ever going back to the plastic!! Looking to get a BK16 soon, and will also change it to micarta.
 
I've swapped nearly all of mine out with timber. Just enjoy the look and feel of them. My backyard BK2 still has the grivory originals.

[/URL]
 
I actually have yet to swap out the Grivory handles on any of my Beckers. It isn't my favorite material but until I can get around to attempting to make my own scales, I very well might leave them on. I am a huge advocate for micarta, it simply is a robust, grippy material that will last forever. However, $40-$50 for a set of factory micarta scales affects the whole "bang for your buck" ratio in regards to the overall knife package and when I have that extra coin I usually am more apt to put it towards an actual knife versus a knife accessory.

That being said, I will more than likely pick up a set of scales before too long as I add more Beckers to the lineup. It is either spend a little money and save some time or spend some time and save some money... And I generally do not have a lot of time.
 
hhmoore said:
I've swapped some, and have never felt inclined to switch them back...by the same token, I have some with stock handles that I've used for years; and I've never been inclined to change those, either.
Click to expand...

Exactly this...
 
Aftermarket micarta for me. The original scales were not bad but modifying a Becker is part of the fun!
bk9andESEE1.jpg
 
I just use ranger bands on the original scales, not because I don't like some of the aftermarket options, just that I can't justify doubling the cost of the knife to gain virtually no added function.
 
For some it's aesthetics and for others, it's function. I like the warmth and the feel of micarta. 99% of my fixed blade knife handles are made of micarta. The weight of micarta handles can also change up the balance point of a knife as well. I'm just a micarta kinda guy I guess!
 
Micarta for sure. It really changed the game. I wish there were more options though. I'd like some shade tree fancy stuff on my big beckers
 
Micarta on the tweeners make them feel a bit more full in hand - won't be switching back to grivory. Liners give the same result.
That said, I had micarta on my 5, but changed back.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top