I have been looking at various styles of scales to try my hand at fabrication.

I have been thinking of going with a one piece style, eliminating the need for a pin or wedge at the bottom of the scales. My intent is to cut and shape the scales as one solid block of wood, then rip cut a space in the center for the blade then use a single tang-pin to mount the blade.

Is there any dis-advantage to this design? I could see it possibly making the scales a bit heavier on the end affecting balance if you don't compensate for it, but that is the only thing I can really think of to watch out for. What else am I missing? Is there any real advantage with using a 2-piece design with a pin at the end?

I am asking since this seems like the simplest design and it will be my first attempt at my own scales; I'd hate to waste some really nice wood with an experiment.

Thanks!


v/r

Allen