- Joined
- Jun 4, 2006
- Messages
- 361
A month ago, I asked for some help in getting custom scales for my newly acquired Shiro Tabargan. The factory scales (flat G-10) made the handle feel chunky/bulky both in my hand and in my pocket. Additionally, the scales were too thick around the axis lock pin, making it difficult to release the lock.
At the urging of other BF members, I contacted 4 different individuals that had posts for custom scales in the "Custom Shop: Services Offered" section. All were prompt and courteous and offered reasonable prices. Pics of their work also looked fantastic. However, for the price I paid for the knife, they were a significant investment into a knife I wasn't sure I would like at the end of the day.
To minimize risk and try to save money, I decided to try making them myself. If I didn't like them, at least I was only out my time and some material. These scales are a little complex as there are several pockets machined into the back side of the scale to fit the axis mechanism. I don't have a mill, but do have an OK drill press and a cheap cross-sliding vice. I also already had carbon fiber on-hand, as well as several mill bits that would allow me to simplify the project. It took me well over 10 hours to complete and they likely aren't up to par with any one of the individuals I contacted about making them for me.
Based on this experience, I have learned a few things. First, scales can make a HUGE difference. I am big on handle ergonomics, but I didn't think all of my issues would have been fixed with new scales. I mean, the thickness of the knife/liners was already set and the original scales weren't THAT thick. But the difference is HUGH and I love this knife now! The knife feels better in the hand, making it seem smaller and more manageable and giving me better control of the blade.
The second thing I learned is that prices I was quoted to complete this work were flat out bargains. For the time involved, the tools required, and the material, their prices were more than reasonable. I like projects, but knowing what I do now, if I were to do it again, I would seriously consider giving this project to a professional.
Lastly, if you are considering a Tabargan, I strongly recommend one with a contoured handle-it makes all the difference.
Took some more pics. The blue are the original scales.
In the first pic, you can see the pocket for the axis lock on the back of the scale.
These next two are intended to show the differences in thickness from the original.
At the urging of other BF members, I contacted 4 different individuals that had posts for custom scales in the "Custom Shop: Services Offered" section. All were prompt and courteous and offered reasonable prices. Pics of their work also looked fantastic. However, for the price I paid for the knife, they were a significant investment into a knife I wasn't sure I would like at the end of the day.
To minimize risk and try to save money, I decided to try making them myself. If I didn't like them, at least I was only out my time and some material. These scales are a little complex as there are several pockets machined into the back side of the scale to fit the axis mechanism. I don't have a mill, but do have an OK drill press and a cheap cross-sliding vice. I also already had carbon fiber on-hand, as well as several mill bits that would allow me to simplify the project. It took me well over 10 hours to complete and they likely aren't up to par with any one of the individuals I contacted about making them for me.
Based on this experience, I have learned a few things. First, scales can make a HUGE difference. I am big on handle ergonomics, but I didn't think all of my issues would have been fixed with new scales. I mean, the thickness of the knife/liners was already set and the original scales weren't THAT thick. But the difference is HUGH and I love this knife now! The knife feels better in the hand, making it seem smaller and more manageable and giving me better control of the blade.
The second thing I learned is that prices I was quoted to complete this work were flat out bargains. For the time involved, the tools required, and the material, their prices were more than reasonable. I like projects, but knowing what I do now, if I were to do it again, I would seriously consider giving this project to a professional.
Lastly, if you are considering a Tabargan, I strongly recommend one with a contoured handle-it makes all the difference.
Took some more pics. The blue are the original scales.
In the first pic, you can see the pocket for the axis lock on the back of the scale.
These next two are intended to show the differences in thickness from the original.
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