Single or non-matching scales

Fish30114

Fish30114

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Jan 5, 2014
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Is it just me, or does anyone else dislike the plethora of knives that have mis-matched or one side only scales? I have just bought my first several ZeroTolerance blades, and a couple of them I've got coming have this type of 'scaling' I personally prefer both sides of my knives to match, I kinda like metal scales, so I particularly dislike all these knives that are all metal and one side and then a scale of G-10 or whatever on the other side. A related question, who out there might make a scale of titanium or whatever that would replace the non-metallic scales that I'm talking about?
 
I'm in the same boat. I like the symmetry that comes with having both scales made of the same material. I wouldn't say it's a deal breaker, but it'll make me think twice about a purchase.
 
Fish30114 said:
Is it just me, or does anyone else dislike the plethora of knives that have mis-matched or one side only scales?
Click to expand...

I am with you on that one! Symmetry is good! Frame-locks are evil, as are, to a much lesser amount Liner-locks! ;)
 
If done right it's a good combo. I'm not a fan of pure flat metal lock bar sides though. To each his own.
 
There are several practical reasons for using two types of scales on Framelocks. It is also become a signature look for certain brands. Some people actually like having two aesthetics to a knife - knives are usually viewed from one side or the other anyway.

I'm apathetic to the existence of such knives. I guess I'm glad that there is such a wide range of design options. If it bothers you that much, there are tons of knives that have matching scales. I feel for you if you are very hung up on a specific design that only comes in a half and half frame lock - it will be costly and hard to find a machinist to get a set of matching scales machined well - there are lots of people that can do a poor job though. Good luck with that!
 
I prefer a handle that is warm to the touch, so I'll take the G-10 where I can get it. Out of all my knives I tend to grab the ones without some sort if metal scales. I can only assume it keeps prices lower and weight down, albeit probably minimal, but I'll take it. Maybe I'm wrong.
 
reasons for having a g-10 scale side but for most it comes down to costs.... its going to be more expensive for full Ti scales. Many people complain about knives exceeding certain pricepoints and manufacturers cant please everyone with each design. Want full Ti scales, be prepared to pay for them.
 
I much prefer having two types of material. I love a good framelock and I love customizing them. It seems that most others do as well. On top of that. ZT does machine the Titanium to match the G-10 on the 056 series and it looks amazing. I think the same on the 0300.

It also makes it very fun and easy to customize your knife as you please.
 
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I don't mind one metal scale and one g10 scale. If i want symmetry in my knife, ill get an axis lock.
 
coldsteelrocks, one of the ZT's I have coming is a 056 model, so I will see first hand what I think of that 'matching' scale. I just like the symmetry aspect as someone else called it, and prefer both sides of my knives to match. As to it being a cost thing, I understand that train of thought, but I think mfgs. should give an option, OTOH using aluminum is cheap enough to have both sides match if one must be metal. I would really like the option of two sides wood! Using G-10 instead of titanium I understand as cheaper, and that's just how it seems to me!
 
I like framelocks with g10 or carbon fiber on the non-locking side.

They are lighter than full ti folders and the ti doesn't destroy my pockets while sliding in and out while the other side gives traction both while in hand and when pulling out of the pocket.

Hinderer's textured g10 is particularly awesome while drawing the knife from the pocket.
 
Agreed.
Weight, grip and an artistic touch are all parts of it. Cost really is not a factor IMO. Carbon Fiber, Fiberglass, Micarta and Kirinite are all amazing materials that can have dozens of different finishes and cost just as much.
Cost really does not make sense as many of the 400-1200 dollar semi/custom and production knives have something other than Titanium.
Ive always liked robots and I consider framelocks a cyborg look. That is what I would call my framelock design if I ever make it.
 
I think that the majority of my nicer folders have G10/titanium scales, and I like them that way.
Dual titanium is fine also.
CRK's, Striders, TAD Dauntless
 
It used to bother me and kept me away from some knives for a long time. I guess it was me needing to have things even and matching being very meticulous kinda guy,but after getting a zt it really grew on me and now I even have a hest 2.0.
 
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