Suggestions on ATCF

B

Bob Litt

Joined
Feb 7, 1999
Messages
94
I'm about to order a titanium handle ATCF from Mr. Terzuola. Does any one know if titanium would be a bit too slippery if I were to get my hands wet? My 2nd choice would be a Micarta handle - should I choose with or without bolsters.

All comments would be appreciated,

Bob

 
If you are going to be using the knife in wet conditions you may want to consider the checkered carbon fiber. The grip material is super secure, more than any surface that I have felt on a custom folder. The checkering is like you would find on the but of an AR-15 stock. The drawback is the appearence of it however. The material looks as though it came out of a mold and the impressions make for a cheaply made appearence with visible seams. Not that this is the case by any means! I owned this knife for about 24 hours before I sent it back and ordered the G-10/Titanium Bolsters because I couldn't justify owning a $400 knife that looked cheaper than an endura knock-off. But for pure function, the carbon fiber may be just what you need in a wet enviornment.

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Al

 
Bob re your question on the titanium ATCF.
Like Al said, the checkered, molded carbon fibre gives the best grip but it is not a very attractive handle if looks are important to you. I developed that handle for military professionals who need somthing that works no matter what it looks like.
I prefer the G-10 handle for a good grip under most conditions and an attractive, handmade look.
If you are looking for a sturdy carry knife, I don't think you need to spend the extra money for bolsters. This is kind of a trend at the moment and while they do add some strength to the knife , they also add bulk. Some folks like the extra thickness and are willing to pay for it but I really don't think they are necessary for a strong knife. If I did not feel the plain G-10 was strong enough under even brutal conditions, I would not have developed it for folder handles.
Best of luck, Bob
 
I am constantly in awe of the forums. Bob posts a question and recieves his answer from the maker himself. It is nice to see all the custom makers posting now and then. I feel honored by their presence and like to see what they have to say. I wish more would get involved!

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Al

 
Thanks for all those who have replied. Wow...my jaw nearly dropped when I saw my post being answered by Bob Terzuola himself. I also feel honored to see distinguished knife makers and company CEO sharing their views and ideas at site. That’s what makes this place so great.



[This message has been edited by Bob Litt (edited 26 April 1999).]
 
As a side note, I bought one with the molded handles and actually really like it. Mine came from Jay and Karen at AZCK.

When I first ordered it and saw the description of "carbon fiber" molded handles, I was excited. As a motorcycle racer I work with carbon fiber all the time and love the woven look. When it arrived I saw it and thought it was Zytel and that there was some sort of mistake.

After a while it grew on me, but I'd still like to hear about exactly what it is, as it doesn't seem to be carbon fiber (at least not in the traditional sense).

Fantastic knife however, I'm a real stickler for fit and finish and I've never seen a knife that had a better fit. Ever.


--Doug
 
Doug et al:
I really enjoy being on the forum and exchanging viewa with the folks who use my knives. Unfortunately I don't get the time necessary to respond to all. wish I had more!
In answer to your question, the molded carbon fibre that I use on the ATCF is really carbon fibre but I am quick to tell people that it is molded, not laid as the current material is. I have been using this stuff for 10 years or so, long before the laid cloth/epoxy material became popular(I also now offer the laid cloth/epoxy as an option).
You are correct when you called it Zytel. This is a registered trade name for a type of injection moldable nylon. Since nylon has very little structural strength, it is often reinforced with fibres. Most knives made of Zytel use 33% glass fibre the maximum you can use and still be able to inject it. The ATCF scales however use 33% long fibre carbon instead of glass, that is why it is described in my brochure as "molded carbon fibre"
Best regards, Bob
 
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