The More You Know: Micarta

I'd guess during WW2 makers started using micarta on knives, but it did not seem to really catch until the early 60s. . .with Randall, Loveless and others.


The histories of micarta and formica, early reinforced plastics, are mixed together. They were attempts at making man made mica, a common insulator back in the day. Westinghouse started making micarta about the same time two of their engineers jumped ship and started the formica company. There are some who say the name formica comes from "formerly micarta" Between the world wars they found all sorts of new uses for each. Micarta found a lot of mechanical use and, formica as a decorative overlay.
 
Micarta on Randall No. 5
post-1741-0-89501000-1314372996_thumb.jpg
 
Last edited:
Nice Randal, this Schiffman is my favorite knife of all. It has been in the family for more than forty years.


It's not micarta but is still as beautiful as the day it was made.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top