Why G-10 Is The BEST Handle Material For Fixed Blade Knives | THE SHED KNIVES BLOG #85

Welcome back to The Shed Knives Blog for edition #85! If you're new here, welcome! Today, we’re breaking down why Shed Knives uses G-10 & why it is one of the best handle materials for fixed blade knives. Whether you're into bushcraft, survival training, hunting, or general outdoor use, having the right handle material makes a world of difference, and when it comes to durability, grip, and reliability, G-10 is second to none.

What is G-10?

G-10 is a high-pressure fiberglass laminate, made by stacking multiple layers of fiberglass cloth soaked in epoxy resin, then compressing and baking it under extreme heat. The result? A rigid, ultra-durable, and lightweight material that excels in outdoor and heavy-use applications. Originally developed for industrial and electrical applications, G-10 quickly became a favorite for knife makers due to its outstanding properties.

Why G-10 is Perfect for Fixed Blade Knives

When choosing a knife, a solid part of your decision comes down to how the handle field. With the handle, you need something that’s comfortable, strong, and able to withstand the elements. Here’s why G-10 outperforms other materials:

1. Exceptional Durability

Outdoor knives are made to take a beating, especially when it’s a blade from Shed Knives. Whether you’re batoning firewood, building shelters, or field dressing game, your knife handle must endure serious abuse. Unlike wood, plastic, or even some metals, G-10 is:

• Highly impact-resistant

• Won't crack or warp under extreme conditions (heat, cold, humidity, etc.)

• Resistant to chemical exposure and UV light

A G-10 handle won’t chip, degrade, or break down even after years of hard use, making it the ideal choice for survival and bushcraft knives.

2. Excellent Grip in All Conditions

A knife handle that slips in your hand is dangerous. G-10 is designed to provide a secure, non-slip grip in all weather conditions. Whether it’s raining, snowing, or you’re sweating, the textured surface of G-10 ensures a firm hold. Some key advantages include:

• Water-resistant (doesn’t absorb & retain moisture)

• Textured for maximum grip (even when wet or muddy)

• Temperature-resistant (won’t become too hot or too cold to hold)

Compared to steel handles that get slippery or wood that can swell, G-10 remains reliable no matter the environment.

3. Lightweight Without Sacrificing Strength

One of the biggest advantages of G-10 over metal or even micarta is its incredible strength-to-weight ratio. It’s significantly lighter than steel or aluminum but just as tough. This means you get a heavy-duty knife without unnecessary weight, making it easier to carry on long hikes, hunting trips, or survival situations.

A G-10 handle keeps your knife well-balanced and maneuverable, reducing hand fatigue during extended use. Metal scales (handles) on a fixed blade look cool, but they are not good for long term use. The increased cost and decreased grip with metal scales like aluminum, steel, and titanium are just a few reasons why G-10 is the preferred material across the board.

4. Weather & Chemical Resistance

Unlike wood handles that swell, crack, or absorb moisture, G-10 is completely unaffected by water, humidity, and extreme temperatures. This makes it perfect for marine environments, jungle conditions, and harsh winter climates. It’s also resistant to:

• Oils & chemicals (perfect for field dressing game or working with fuels)

• Corrosion & rot (unlike untreated wood or lower-quality plastics)

• Harsh UV exposure (won’t severely fade or degrade in sunlight)

G-10 requires no special maintenance, making it a hassle-free option for those who need reliability in the field.

5. Customization & Aesthetic Appeal

G-10 isn’t just functional—it looks great too. Available in a variety of colors and patterns, G-10 allows knife makers to create unique, eye-catching designs while maintaining rugged performance. At Shed Knives, we offer six color options for our G-10 handles, giving you both style and performance.

6. Longevity & Cost Efficiency

While some materials like premium woods might look nice, they don’t last in heavy use environments. G-10 is one of the longest lasting handle materials available, meaning you won’t have to replace or repair it. Plus, it’s more affordable than carbon fiber, making it a cost-effective choice for high-quality knives.

How G-10 Stacks Up Against Other Handle Materials

As you can see, G-10 checks all the boxes, making it the best choice for tough outdoor knives across the 2025 Shed Knives Collection.

G-10 on the 2025 Shed Knives Tuatara

The 2025 Shed Knives Tuatara features a scaled-up G-10 handle based on feedback from customers who love the Sheepsfoot but want a larger, scaled up design. The Tuatara’s handle is designed for all-day comfort, ensuring a firm grip no matter the conditions.

Why the Tuatara’s G-10 handle stands out:

• 100% USA-made G-10 (and knife)

• Six available colors to match your style

• Enhanced ergonomics for extended use

• Comes with an Ivory White G-10 liner

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fixed blade knife that will perform in any environment, G-10 is the handle material you need. It’s durable, lightweight, weatherproof, and offers an unbeatable grip. Whether you’re deep in the woods, hunting, or just need a reliable field knife, G-10 makes sure your knife stays functional for years to come.

Shed knives are built to last, and their G-10 handles makes it one of the best outdoor knives available. Check out our full collection at shedknives.com and get your hands on a 100% USA-made fixed blade designed for the field.

Be sure to visit our website and secure your favorite model. In the USA? Get FREE shipping! Inventory fluctuates on a daily basis, so check out the collection below:

To explore a wide range of high-quality knives, like the entire 2025 Shed Knives Collection, visit the Shed Knives website HERE. Thank you for reading and stay tuned for the next edition of The Shed Knives Blog.

Know another outdoor enthusiast who may find value in this blog? Feel free to share the link of this blog with them so we can continue to educate & encourage our fellow outdoor & knife enthusiasts. Thank you for your support. - WJB

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About The Author:

Jack Billings is the 20 year old CEO and Founder of Shed Knives, a rising manufacturer of high-quality fixed blade bushcraft knives. With over 5 years of experience as a knife maker, he has developed a reputation for crafting durable, reliable knives that are designed for outdoor enthusiasts and bushcrafters alike. Jack started making knives at the age of 13 and has been refining his craft ever since.

In addition to his expertise in knife making, Jack has a High School Degree from POLYTECH High School, where he studied Automotive Technology and obtained his ASE Certification. He is also a content creator for Shed Knives and has reached the eyes of over 1,000,000 people on Shed Knives platforms across the world through his work.

When he's not working on knives, Jack enjoys exploring the outdoors and has a passion for bushcraft. He also has a passion for the automotive world and enjoys learning about new technologies and advancements. Additionally, he has a great interest in language and is studying Spanish, German, and Arabic.

Jack's personal mission is to constantly improve himself, his products, and his processes in order to stay ahead of the rapidly changing interests of the knife industry and to surpass the competition. He takes great pride in American manufacturing and is committed to contributing to the growth of the world knife industry through his work.

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