Handle Wraps for Throwing Knives

I decided it was about time to wrap some handles for my set of Perfect Point Throwing Knives. After trying several different weaves and knots, I settled on this basket-type style.

To weave the handles I used Olive Drab 550 Nylon Paracord. I decided to gut the core for a flatter and tighter weave, but originally the diameter measures 5/32 of an inch.

Start the weave by leaving about an inch of cord lengthwise on the handle before threading it through the hole closest to the tip of the blade. Once on the other side, run the cord towards the hole at the bottom of the knife and thread it through. To complete one pass, bring the cord full circle and lay the running end in line over the one inch section of the standing end. Using the tension of the line to secure the standing end from slipping, thread the cord through the top hole for the second time. You should now have one strand showing on each side of the handle. Thread the line once again through the bottom hole, then the top hole so that you have two complete passes. The cord should be threaded through the top hole a total of three times. These two lines will be the ones running parallel with the handle in the final weave so be sure they are beside each other and not on top of one another. This will make the weaving process easier.

Just having passed through the top hole for the third time, run the cord to the outside of the handle and around it. From here, proceed to weave around the handle in an under/over, over/under method. You will notice the method will reverse. For example the first several intersections you come to should be as follows; under/over, over/under, over/under, under/over. It will make more sense as you follow the weave around. Remember to keep the weave flat and tight as you work.

Once you have reached the bottom of the handle and have room for only one more under/over, tuck the running end under both strands so that the last weaving method you use is under/under. This will secure the end just a little better.

If there is any slack in the weave, now is the time to tighten it up. Once you have everything as tight as can be, snip the excess cord right up to where it is tucked. Singe the end to prevent fraying. Lick your fingers and squeeze the end to mold the hot end flat. Work carefully at this part as you might guess, yes it is hot. The best way to be safe is to be careful and be smart. Butane torch lighters work the best as they provide a controlled, concentrated flame. I use a Tough Wing Torch which has served me well.

I was really pleased with the way these turned out. The added weight creates more balance to each knife. The cord also serves to deaden the knives and reduce bounce. If for some reason one doesn't stick in whatever it is you're throwing at, it won't ricochet with an annoying BING and fly off in any direction.