There are so many choices for knife handle materials available on the market today. So. Many.
Plastics, polymers, Micarta, laminates, stabilized woods, bone, ivory, stag and many more. There’s also my personal favorites so far as astonishing strength, durability and resilience go: G10 and Carbon Fiber.
Let’s start with G10. What is it? G10 is a composite material, made by layering sheets of epoxy-soaked glass cloth, then compressing the layers together under extreme heat and high pressure until the layers fuse and the epoxy cures. It’s extremely tough, standing up even to direct hammer blows without breaking, never mind accidentally dropping it on a rock in the woods. It comes in many colors. It’s also waterproof.
Most natural materials, even stabilized ones, can be susceptible to discoloration and changes in humidity over time. Staying wet for extended periods almost always results in warping or cracking. But G10 scoffs at both humid jungle environs and soaking wet white-water adventures. It makes an excellent textured handle, providing a hand-hugging, slip-resistant grip. Plus, we custom design and shape each of our handles with real human hands in mind, for a comfortable, intuitive feel that avoids hot spots.