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I've been reflecting on my recent acquisition of a Benchmade 940 Osborne and found the experience quite enlightening in terms of my preconceived notions about knife sizes and handle materials. It's made me curious about other enthusiasts' experiences and preferences. When you're considering a high-end knife, how important is the opportunity to physically handle it before purchase? Are there any materials you've been pleasantly surprised by once you had the chance to feel them, as I was with the aluminum scales on my Benchmade 940? And how do you reconcile the desired aesthetic with actual use and ergonomics? I'm especially interested to hear if anyone has had a similar experience where the tactile feel of a handle material was vastly different from their expectations and if that changed their preferences in the long run.

A good surprise can redefine our tastes, can't it?

I can relate! I was also surprised by handle materials. The tactile experience can truly change perceptions.

It's amazing how the tactile feel of a handle can completely change our expectations. The surprise softness of the aluminum scales on your Benchmade 940 is a great example of how a material can defy assumptions. It sounds like the gamble really paid off for you in the end!