Materials - Micarta, G10

Micarta is an electrical insulation material consisting of a polymer film (based on phenol-aldehyde, phenol-formaldehyde, xylenol-aldehyde resin, or a resin made from a mixture of phenolic raw materials). It is bonded using various electrical insulation papers, fabric (mainly linen), or other materials with a similar structure. Micarta is registered as a trademark of Paper International. Its Russian counterpart is considered to be G10, a high-grade fabric-based textile phenolic laminate. The color of Micarta depends on the resin and materials used in its lamination. By changing the colors of these components, various and often quite imaginative color compositions can be achieved. However, when it comes to tactical knives, black, brown, and olive-green colors are predominant.

Linen-based Micarta has a more appealing optical effect during fiber grinding. After the grinding process, the surface can be polished or sandblasted. In the first case, the surface will be silky, pleasant to the touch, and smooth. In the second case, it will be rough with a matte finish and provide a secure grip, especially in wet conditions.

Key characteristics of Micarta include:

- High water resistance.
- Excellent tolerance to temperature fluctuations.
- Mechanical durability.
- Dense structure that does not absorb odors.
- A micro-textured surface that provides a non-slip grip, even when wet.

Micarta is a relatively soft material and requires careful manual processing. Therefore, it is commonly used in the production of handles for premium knives. Most Western companies use Micarta to make handles for tactical and outdoor knives supplied to the military. Improper use of Micarta can lead to scratches.

G10, on the other hand, is a lightweight, hard, and rigid material with a textured surface used in the production of handles for both folding and fixed-blade knives. It is composed of a compound reinforced with glass fiber fabric and then pressurized. G10 is known for its strength and moisture resistance. This material can be dyed in various colors and even layered.

After the finishing stage, G10 handle scales or inlays often become grayish and dull. To restore their original vibrancy, simply wipe the surface with oil. Finished G10 handle scales or grips can also be sandblasted. As a result of the sandblast process, resin particles become denser and fill the surface, revealing the glass fiber structure. This rough surface enhances grip and remains non-slip, even when wet.

While G10 and Micarta have a similar composition and external appearance, the former is less flammable than the latter. Regarding tensile strength, Micarta is considered a weaker material compared to G10. Nevertheless, it can withstand significant loads.