I've noticed that some knives have started to make a comeback with leather handles. But the better knives out there are not just using plain old leather, which doesn't do so well when it gets wet or solvents on it. Some companies are using better, treated materials, like ox-hide. For instance, Fallkniven is using a treated ox-hide handle in their NL series of knives. Their claim is that this ox-hide is "impervious" to water, solvents, etc.
So I'm curious, from those who have experienced better quality leather or natural handles like this ox-hide: what are the pros and cons of it versus other materials? Is the better quality stuff TRULY able to withstand water? Is it more grippy and comfortable for the long haul, or does it start to break down pretty fast if you have it outdoors in a lot of wet environments?
So I'm curious, from those who have experienced better quality leather or natural handles like this ox-hide: what are the pros and cons of it versus other materials? Is the better quality stuff TRULY able to withstand water? Is it more grippy and comfortable for the long haul, or does it start to break down pretty fast if you have it outdoors in a lot of wet environments?