Best Wood For Knife Scales (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the ideal wood for your knife scales, you might wonder which one is the best fit for your needs. With tons of options available, choosing the right wood might be a bit tricky, but the right choice will have a significant impact on your knife's overall appearance, durability, and performance.
Before buying any wood for your knife scales, there are several factors you need to consider. It would help if you thought of the wood's durability, texture, and density since these factors might affect your knife's stability and longevity. Also, check for whether the wood has any great grain pattern or is well-suited for carving. Lastly, think of your woodworking skills and available tools, and whether you can work with the wood and prepare it for knife scales.
Are you looking for a wood that is easy to work with? Or perhaps you need a wood that can withstand harsh situations? Whatever your concerns may be, finding the best wood for knife scales is essential. How do you know which wood is best for you? Do you prefer the classic look of darker shades or the natural beauty of lighter-colored wood? Which wood will have the best texture to make the grip as comfortable as possible? All these questions are critical to finding the perfect wood for your knife scales that will provide both functionality and aesthetics.
10 Best Wood For Knife Scales
| # | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
 |
Ideal for enhancing knife handle appearance and grip, with high-quality materials sourced from exotic natural wood.
|
|
|
|
2
|
 |
The product is ideal for knife-making and customization due to its durable hard maple material in a convenient size.
|
|
|
|
3
|
 |
Ideal for hunting and outdoor activities, featuring high-quality materials and a durable leather sheath for safe storage.
|
|
|
|
4
|
 |
This product is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and collectors looking for a high-quality folding knife with a unique design.
|
|
|
|
5
|
 |
Ideal for creating knife handles with a unique, stabilized and spalted tamarind wood design in a convenient size.
|
|
|
|
6
|
 |
The product is ideal for knife making enthusiasts who want to create their own fixed blade hunting or survival knives.
|
|
|
|
7
|
 |
Ideal for hunting and outdoor activities with its durable build, sharp blade, and comfortable grip.
|
|
|
|
8
|
 |
This product is ideal for creating DIY knife handles with a vintage, Dalbergia wood finish.
|
|
|
|
9
|
 |
Ideal for hunting, outdoor activities, and general purpose use due to its sharp blade and durable construction.
|
|
|
|
10
|
 |
Ideal for those seeking a high-quality, stylish and functional pocket knife with a sharp Damascus steel blade.
|
|
1. Texas Knifemakers Supply: Exotic Natural Wood Knife Handle Scales
Looking for high-quality, one-of-a-kind scales for your knife? Look no further than these Bocote scales! Each pair of scales is unique, with a yellowish-brown color that contrasts beautifully with dramatic dark brown to almost black stripes. The scales also feature many "eyes" that add swirls of pattern, making them a stunning addition to any knife.
But these scales aren't just beautiful – they're also incredibly durable. Bocote has a Janka Hardness rating of 2200 lb(f), making it one of the hardest woods available. And because each pair of scales is cut from a single block, you can be sure that they'll be consistent in both color and pattern.
Each pair of scales is sold as a bookmatched pair, with each scale measuring at least 5" x 1-1/2" x 3/8". And to really bring out the beauty of the wood, be sure to use a sealer to close the pores and enhance the color when finishing.
When you order these scales, you can rest assured that they'll arrive quickly and safely. All orders are shipped via USPS Priority Mail, which typically delivers within 2-3 business days. And if you order more than one item, Amazon will automatically combine shipping costs, saving you money!
2. Curly Hard Maple Knife Scales (3/8"x1.5" X5) – 2 Pack
This product offers a set of high-quality knife scales that can also be used as gun grips. With this purchase, customers will receive both a left and right blank, providing them with everything they need to get started.
Each scale measures 3/8" x 1.5" x 5" or larger, providing ample material to work with. Additionally, these scales have been kiln dried, ensuring that they are ready to be shaped to the user's desired specifications.
3. Puma Tucson Pakka Wood German Made Hunting Knife With Leather Sheath
This exceptional product is crafted by skilled German craftsmen in Solingen, Germany. The knife boasts of Pakka Wood Scales with an aluminum bolster and pins that make it both elegant and sturdy. With a blade length of 165 mm and a total length of 279 mm, this knife is perfectly balanced and easy to handle. It weighs 201 g, making it lightweight and comfortable to use for extended periods.
The blade is made of German Steel, a high-quality material that is renowned for its strength and durability. It has a hardness of 1.4116 and has undergone rigorous testing to achieve a 57-60 HRC Rockwell rating. The knife is also proofmarked, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of quality and performance.
This knife comes with a handsome brown leather sheath, providing a safe and secure storage option. The sheath is designed to protect the blade from damage and keep it sharp for longer. It is also easy to carry around, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and hunting.
4. Damascus Folding Knife With Custom Twist Blade
Introducing the Laguiole Folding Knife, a top-quality blade that is sure to meet your expectations. With an overall length of 8.6 inches, this knife is perfect for a variety of uses. The 4.1-inch Damascus blade boasts a 3.5-inch cutting edge, providing ample space for slicing and dicing.
The red wood scale features a brass bolster blind with three brass pins, ensuring extra strength and durability. With a folded length of 4.5 inches, this knife is compact and easy to carry with you wherever you go.
Included with the knife is a fine quality extra thick cow hide leather sheath with a belt inserting stripe. This sheath is designed to keep your knife safe and secure when not in use.
Crafted to meet the standards of pocket knives, camping knives, and personalized knives, this Laguiole Folding Knife is sure to impress. The twisted pattern Damascus steel gives the blade a unique and eye-catching appearance.
The blade itself is made of Damascus steel, forged from 1095 and 15N20 high and low carbon steel. It has been expertly heat-treated to ensure it is well hardened, with a hardness rating of 56 to 58 HRC.
5. Tamarind, Spalted Stabilized 1" X 1-1/2" X 5" Knife Scale 1-Piece
Woodcraft offers a top-of-the-line knife scale with dimensions of 1" x 1-1/2" x 5". This knife scale is made with stabilized wood, ensuring its durability and longevity.
As America's foremost supplier of woodworking tools and materials, Woodcraft has earned an award-winning reputation for its extensive selection of saws, planes, power tools, hand tools, wood stain and paint, routers, sanding equipment, wood kits, dust collection accessories, and more.
Their family of brands includes WoodRiver, Highpoint, Woodcraft, and Woodcraft Magazine, providing customers with a vast array of options to suit their needs. Additionally, their collection of woodworking books, videos, and plans is the largest in the industry, providing an unparalleled resource for woodworkers of every skill level.
6. Leader Wood Hunting Knife Kit
Introducing the Damascus Steel Blank Blade Knife, a stunning handmade hunting knife that combines beauty and durability in one unique piece. The blade is made from 1095/15N20 alloy steels, with a beautiful twist pattern that is hand-forged to perfection. The blade is 4 inches long, while the handle is 4.5 inches long, giving the knife an overall length of 8.5 inches. The blade has an excellent edge and sharp cutting abilities, making it perfect for hunting, camping, or any outdoor activity.
The handle of this hunting knife is made from beautiful stag horn with colored wood and brass spacers, providing better grip and comfort with its ergonomic olive wood design. The knife also comes with a strong metal safety guard that adds durability and style to the knife.
For easy portability, the knife comes with a genuine leather sheath that has an EDC belt loop and a snap fastener, allowing you to carry it everywhere you go. The knife is not just a tool, but a unique piece of Damascus steel artwork handmade by craftsmen who require long hours of hard work. No two blades are the same, making it a perfect gift for anyone who appreciates unique, handcrafted pieces.
The knife making kit is handmade from 1095 steel, which is a high carbon steel prized for its knife blades and professional quality. The forging tools and equipment are designed to last for several years (lifetime if handled with care). The knife has a hardness of 58-60 HRC on Rockwell Scale with long-lasting sharp edges, making it perfect for any outdoor activity.
If you want to make your own dream knife kit, the holes in the handle can be small or big in diameter and can be found at different places on the handle. You don’t need to use all holes to make a Damascus knife, and pins may be bigger, but you can rub them with sandpaper to adjust according to handle holes.
The manufacturer stands 100% by their knives and warrants that they are free from defects in workmanship, and the materials are for a lifetime. This unique handmade hunting knife is not just a tool but a piece of art that you can cherish for a lifetime.
7. Benchmade 15031-2 North Fork Folder Dp Axis Wood Hunting Knife
The North Fork 15031-1 from Benchmade is a high-quality, well-designed knife that is perfect for hunting and outdoor activities. This knife boasts a CPM-S30V stainless steel blade that is well-balanced, offering exceptional edge qualities and rust resistance. The blade also features a drop-point, recurved design that is specifically crafted for assisting in processing duties while hunting.
The 15031-1's G10 handle is both durable and impervious to moisture, ensuring that it remains stable under extreme temperatures. This handle also offers a comfortable and secure grip, thanks to its textured design. The knife's AXIS lock is exceptionally strong and fully ambidextrous, making it easy to open and close single-handedly.
Not only is the North Fork 15031-1 functional, but it's also incredibly comfortable to use. Its lightweight design and textured handle make it easy to hold and maneuver, while the reversible pocket clip ensures ultimate accessibility.
8. Teamwill 1pc Vintage Dalbergia Wood Knife Handle Blank Wooden Block Scales For Diy Knife
If you're a woodworking enthusiast looking for high-quality materials for your next project, then the Dalbergia Wood Blank is the perfect choice for you. This blank is made from premium quality Dalbergia wood, which is known for its durability, strength, and stunning natural grain patterns.
At a size of 120x40x25mm, this Dalbergia wood blank provides ample space for you to create your own custom designs and shapes. Whether you're a seasoned woodworker or a beginner, this blank is versatile enough to accommodate all skill levels.
The package contains one piece of Dalbergia wood blank, which is carefully selected and processed to ensure that you receive only the best quality product. This blank can be used for a wide variety of woodworking projects, including furniture making, carving, and turning.
In addition to its high-quality construction, this Dalbergia wood blank is also environmentally friendly. Its sustainable sourcing and production methods make it an ideal choice for those who are looking for materials that are both beautiful and eco-friendly.
9. Puma Ip Rotfuchs Olive Wood Handle Spanish Made Hunting Knife With Leather Sheath
This exquisite knife is handmade by skilled Spanish knife craftsmen, using only the finest materials. The handle features stunning olive wood scales, accented by brass pins, providing a comfortable and ergonomic grip. The blade measures 102 mm, making it the perfect size for a variety of tasks, and the total length of the knife is 207 mm. Despite its sturdy construction, the knife is remarkably lightweight, weighing in at only 108 g.
The blade is crafted from high-quality steel, specifically 440C, which is known for its exceptional hardness and durability. With a hardness rating of 57-60 HRC, this knife is capable of withstanding even the toughest cutting tasks. Whether you're slicing through meat, chopping vegetables, or carving wood, this knife is up to the challenge.
This knife comes with a handsome brown leather sheath, which not only protects the blade but also adds to its overall aesthetic appeal. The sheath is designed to fit the knife perfectly, ensuring that it stays securely in place when not in use.
10. Boker Plus Exskelibur Ii Damascus Pocket Knife
The Damascus Steel Eskelibur Knife is a stunning piece with a unique design and features that make it stand out from other knives in its range. This knife boasts of 57 layers of stainless steel hammered to form the Damascus blade. With an HRC of 58-60, this blade is resistant to wear and tear over time and is easy to sharpen regularly.
The Cocobolo wood handle scales of the Damascus Steel Eskelibur Knife offer a sharp contrast to the blade with its rich wood grain and smooth surface. The handle also features blue anodized titanium liners that add a unique flair to the knife's overall design.
Designed by Mike Skellern, who has participated several times in the annual Knife Makers Fair in Solingen, the Eskelibur series has been a big success. The design of this knife is one of the most popular designs in the Boker Plus range.
The Damascus Steel Eskelibur Knife has an overall length of 6.50 inches, with a blade length of 2.76 inches. The knife weighs a total of 1.98 ounces and features a nail nick and a titanium pocket clip. This knife also comes with a black zippered storage case and a microfiber cloth for easy storage and maintenance.
Best Wood For Knife Scales FAQs
Are there any woods that are not recommended for knife scales due to their toxicity or other factors?
Yes, there are certain woods that are not recommended for knife scales due to their toxicity or other factors. Some woods contain natural oils or chemicals that can be harmful to human health or cause allergic reactions. For example, woods such as poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac are highly toxic and can cause severe skin irritation.
Other woods such as yew, hemlock, and oleander contain poisonous compounds that can be harmful if ingested or inhaled. Therefore, it is not recommended to use these woods for knife scales.
Additionally, some woods can be too brittle or soft to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. For example, balsa wood is too soft and will not provide the necessary durability for knife scales.
It is important to research and choose woods that are safe and suitable for knife scales, such as stabilized woods or hardwoods like maple, oak, or walnut. It is also recommended to wear protective gear such as gloves and masks when working with any type of wood to avoid inhaling dust or coming into contact with harmful chemicals.
Can different types of wood be combined for a unique and functional knife handle?
Yes, different types of wood can be combined to create a unique and functional knife handle. This is a common technique used by knife makers to add interest and texture to their designs. The key to a successful combination is to choose woods that both complement and contrast with each other. For example, a light-colored wood like maple could be paired with a darker wood like walnut for a striking contrast. Alternatively, woods with similar colors but different grain patterns, such as oak and ash, can create a subtle but interesting effect. It's important to choose woods that are durable and suited to the purpose of the knife, as well as those that are easy to work with. Different types of wood also have different levels of hardness, which can affect the overall strength and durability of the handle. Ultimately, with some experimentation and careful consideration of the materials, a knife maker can create a truly unique and functional handle design.
Can exotic woods be used for knife scales, and if so, which ones are recommended?
Yes, exotic woods can be used for knife scales. In fact, many knife makers prefer using exotic woods for their unique grain patterns and colors. Some of the most popular exotic woods used for knife scales include Cocobolo, Bocote, Ziricote, and African Blackwood. These woods are known for their durability, stability, and resistance to moisture, making them ideal for knife handles.
Cocobolo is a beautiful reddish-brown wood that is highly prized for its strength and density. Bocote is a dark brown wood with striking black stripes and is known for its stability and resistance to decay. Ziricote is a dark brown wood with black streaks that is highly durable and resistant to wear. African Blackwood is a deep, dark wood that is extremely dense and durable, making it an excellent choice for high-end knives.
When using exotic woods for knife scales, it’s important to choose a wood that is stable and resistant to moisture. It’s also important to properly seal and finish the wood to ensure its longevity and prevent it from cracking or warping over time.
How does the grain pattern of a wood affect its suitability for knife scales?
The grain pattern of a wood can significantly affect its suitability for knife scales. In general, wood with a tight and straight grain pattern is preferred for knife handles as it provides a more stable and durable surface. This is because the straight grain allows for better stability and strength, which is important for a knife handle that will be subject to repeated stress and impact.
On the other hand, wood with an irregular or wild grain pattern may not be as suitable for knife handles as it can compromise the stability and strength of the handle. This is because the irregular grain can create weak points in the handle, which can lead to cracking or breaking over time.
Furthermore, the density and hardness of the wood should also be taken into consideration when selecting wood for knife handles. A dense and hard wood, such as ebony or ironwood, can provide a more durable and long-lasting handle.
Ultimately, the choice of wood for knife scales depends on personal preference and the intended use of the knife. It is important to choose a wood that not only looks good but also provides the necessary strength and durability for the task at hand.
What are the most popular woods used for knife scales?
There are several types of wood that are popularly used for knife scales. One of the most popular is the stabilized wood, which is a type of wood that has been impregnated with resin to make it more stable and durable. The resin also adds a unique dimension to the wood, making it more visually appealing. Another popular choice is the exotic wood, which is known for its unique grain patterns and colors. This type of wood is often used in high-end knives due to its rarity and beauty. Other popular woods used for knife scales include walnut, cherry, oak, and ebony. These woods are known for their strength, durability, and natural beauty, making them a popular choice among knife makers. Ultimately, the choice of wood for knife scales will depend on personal preference, the intended use of the knife, and the availability of the wood.
What are the pros and cons of using stabilized wood for knife scales?
Stabilized wood has become a popular material for knife scales due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. However, like any material, it has its pros and cons.
Pros:
1. Durability: Stabilized wood is highly resistant to moisture, warping, and cracking, which makes it an ideal material for knife handles.
2. Aesthetics: Stabilized wood can have intricate patterns and unique colors, which can add an artistic touch to the knife.
3. Easy to work with: The stabilized wood is easy to shape and finish, which makes it a great material for knife makers.
Cons:
1. Cost: Stabilized wood can be expensive compared to other materials, which can add to the overall cost of the knife.
2. Limited availability: The stabilized wood is not readily available in all areas, which can make it difficult to source for knife makers.
3. Difficulty in maintenance: While stabilized wood is highly resistant to moisture, it can still require maintenance to keep it looking its best.
In conclusion, stabilized wood has many benefits that make it a popular choice for knife makers. However, the cost and limited availability of the material, as well as the need for maintenance, should be considered before choosing it for knife handles.
What is the best way to treat and maintain wooden knife scales?
The best way to treat and maintain wooden knife scales is to regularly clean and oil them. First, remove any debris or residue with a damp cloth. Then, using a food-safe oil like mineral oil or walnut oil, apply a small amount to the scales and rub it in with a clean cloth. Let the oil soak in for a few minutes, then wipe off any excess. It's important to oil the scales regularly, as this will help prevent them from drying out and cracking. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the wood. Additionally, it's a good idea to store your knives in a dry place, away from moisture and humidity, as this can also damage the wooden scales. With proper care and maintenance, wooden knife scales can last for many years and add a beautiful touch to your kitchen tools.
What is the best wood for a knife handle in terms of grip?
When it comes to choosing the best wood for a knife handle, grip is one of the primary factors to consider. Several types of wood are commonly used for knife handles, but not all of them offer the same level of grip.
One of the best woods for a knife handle in terms of grip is G10. This material is made of layers of fiberglass soaked in resin, making it extremely durable and resistant to moisture. G10 also provides excellent grip, even when wet, due to its textured surface.
Another popular wood for knife handles is Micarta. Like G10, Micarta is made of layers of material (usually paper or canvas) soaked in resin. Micarta is also highly durable and provides excellent grip due to its texture and moisture resistance.
Other woods that are commonly used for knife handles include stabilized wood, which has been treated to improve its durability and moisture resistance, and exotic woods like cocobolo or ebony that offer beautiful aesthetics and decent grip.
Ultimately, the best wood for a knife handle in terms of grip will depend on personal preference, intended use, and specific requirements. It's always best to try out different materials and handle designs to determine which one works best for you.
Which woods are resistant to moisture and humidity for knife scales?
When it comes to choosing wood for knife scales, it is important to consider its resistance to moisture and humidity. Some of the woods that are known for their moisture and humidity resistance include Ebony, Cocobolo, Desert Ironwood, and stabilized woods such as stabilized burl woods.
Ebony is a dense hardwood that is known for its resistance to moisture and humidity. It is a popular choice for knife scales due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. Cocobolo, on the other hand, is another dense hardwood that is highly resistant to moisture and humidity. It is also known for its unique grain patterns, making it a popular choice for knife handles.
Desert Ironwood is another popular choice for knife scales due to its high resistance to moisture and humidity. This wood is known for its durability and beautiful grain patterns.
Stabilized woods are also a great option for knife scales as they are treated with resin, making them highly resistant to moisture and humidity. This process also helps to enhance the wood's natural grain patterns, making it an attractive option for knife handles.
In summary, when choosing wood for knife scales, it is important to prioritize woods that are resistant to moisture and humidity, such as Ebony, Cocobolo, Desert Ironwood, and stabilized woods.
Which woods are the most durable for knife handles?
When it comes to knife handles, durability is a key factor to consider. There are various types of woods that are suitable for knife handles, but some are more durable than others. The most durable woods for knife handles are those that are hard, dense, and have a tighter grain structure.
Some of the popular woods used for knife handles include ebony, cocobolo, desert ironwood, rosewood, and bocote. Ebony, for instance, is one of the hardest woods and is known for its strength and durability. Cocobolo is also a dense and oily wood that is highly resistant to moisture and is resistant to wear and tear. Desert ironwood is another tough and dense wood that is resistant to rot, insects, and weather. Rosewood and bocote are also hard and durable woods that are resistant to wear and tear.
It's important to note, however, that the durability of a knife handle also depends on how well it's maintained. Proper care and maintenance of a knife handle can extend its lifespan and ensure that it stays durable.
