Wood Scales vs Synthetics.

[bleedingfinger]

So I got my first wood handled knife. A Bark River Bravo 1,I got off trade here on the forum. I got this thinking it would be an immediate catch and release.
I didn't think I had interest in wood scales, ironwood in this case. I always considered wood would be weaker, and permeable and Crack... Just basically not as tough as g10 and the like.
But man it looks great !! And the scales feel great!
Did I mention it looks great?
I am a fan of fine woods, however in the past figured I'd beat the hell out my knife and break them!
Are wood scales OK for a medium to hard use knife? Has anyone had any problems and wish they gotten micarta, or g10 instead? Can I batton wood handles?
I'm probably still going to let this go, as I'm looking to fill a couple other spots in my lineup right now. But it's got me thinking. So what you guys think?

 

[HardTripper]

I tend to avoid wood as well, I like them but synthetics are stronger and less expensive. I'll end up with one eventually but for my taste and uses at this time I choose synthetics. A friend of mine just bought a bushcraft knife with cocobolo and it blew me away, looks and feels great... One day.

 

[crimsonfalcon07]

Could always get the best of both worlds: stabilized wood. Basically like G10 but with the aesthetics of wood.

 

[bleedingfinger]

So this bark river is not stabilized wood?

Could always get the best of both worlds: stabilized wood. Basically like G10 but with the aesthetics of wood.

 

[rajincagin]

So this bark river is not stabilized wood?

That depends on what kind of wood it is, only certain woods need to be stabilized. However, if you want to baton with it, go ahead, I hear they've got good warranty

 

[PB Wilson]

I love the look and feel of wood but you are right about questioning the long-term durability.

The woods I've used are Ziricote, Ipe, Wenge, Walnut and several others and because they weren't stabilized, they all moved a bit with the change of seasons. The latest was a necker with Ipe scales that was finished in the summer. When things dried out, I could feel the lanyard tube and pins coming up proud of the scales and each had a sharp edge like a burr. Fixable but annoying. You may expect that if you live in a place with big swings in humidity and temperature.

I still love the look and feel of wood and just remember that many knives and tools have survived generations with the original handles, your wooden handled knives ought to serve you well. Better if they are stabilized.

Nice Bark River by the way!

 

[Franciscomv]

For me, it depends on the style of knife. For a classic pocket knife, like a trapper or stockman, I prefer natural handle materials. Same goes for most fixed blades. They look great, feel great and can be treated to prevent warping and other issues.

For "modern" one hand opening folders, I'll usually go with synthetic handle materials. I view these knives as tools and look almost exclusively for practical features (I don't find most aesthetically pleasing).

On occasion, I've had synthetic handles replaced with wood or stag.

In some cases, price is a factor. For instance, some Bark River models have huge price differences depending on handle material. That's why most of my Barkies have micarta handles, only four or five have wood handles.

 

[Infi-del]

I'm a canvas micarta fan to the core. It's tough, stable, and I like the way it soaks up the sweat in your hand. I think wood is beautiful and on some knives it's just right for the look and style. But for function my personal preference is canvas micarta.

 

[bleedingfinger]

Great responses guys, thanks .So far It sounds that people are overall satisfied with their wood handles performance .
And PBWILSON, I am just up the road in Niagara Falls. So could expect similar humidity and seasonal changes.
I think that wood can be added to my list of desirable handle materials. Unless someone shows up with a horror story lol.
I guess company's like bark river, who stake their name on quality and warranty wouldn't mess with it if it was troublesome.