Scale

1) In traditional pocket knives, it is the liner or side of a pocket knife, usually made of brass. The scale usually has a cover attached on the outside, but on some knives the scale also functions as a cover. A “center” scale is assembled in the middle of each knife to separate the operating parts from each other. A center scale can be full scale or a cut-out scale that has the front part cut out. A “cut-out” scale may also be placed in the side of a knife to provide more working clearance for the blade. 2) In modern folding knives, it refers to a slab of material used as part of a knife handle that are riveted, screwed or bonded to the liners or frame. 3) In modern fixed blades it refers to the handles which typically have two scales (front and back) that are riveted, screwed or bonded to the tang of the blade.  (See: Liner, Frame)