Why titanium hardware earns its place on a working knife

Half Face Blades is moving toward all-titanium hardware over the next year, and the Titanium Hardware (SET of 2) - Anodized Three Battery Blue, HFB-Short shows why. Titanium does not corrode, making it the best hardware choice for bolt-on tools that see sweat, rain, and repeated handling. The anodized three battery blue finish adds a distinct look, but it also means you should treat the hardware a little differently than bare steel screws.

This set includes two titanium pieces and uses a T-25 torx tool. It is designed to work on most Half Face Blades knives from approximately 2022 to the present, including models such as Feather Light, Scalper, Extremis, Tosahwi, Ishi, Buteo, Vulture, Congressman, Beef, Disaster Cub, Gulo Gulo, Skinner Jr, and IWB. That broad coverage is convenient, but it is not a guarantee for every individual knife—more on that below.

What anodized three battery blue finish can and cannot handle

Anodizing on titanium is not a coating that sits on top of the metal; it is a surface conversion that changes color through light interference. In practice, that means the color is part of the metal rather than a layer that can peel. The supplied information does not list specific chemical resistance, abrasion ratings, or cleaning agents for this finish, so avoid assuming it is indestructible. Treat it as you would any anodized titanium part: keep it away from harsh abrasives and unknown solvents, and clean it with mild soap and water when it needs refreshing.

Because the hardware is titanium, it will not rust or corrode even if the anodized color eventually wears from repeated contact. That is a functional advantage: the color may change over time, but the hardware itself remains sound. If a uniform appearance matters to you, handle the screws with care during installation and avoid dragging hard tools across the heads.

A safe care routine for installed anodized hardware

Once the hardware is on your knife, these steps help you keep it clean without guessing at the finish's limits.

  1. Wipe down after use: Remove dirt, sweat, and moisture with a soft cloth. Titanium resists corrosion, but grit left around the screw heads can dull the anodized color over time.
  2. Use mild soap and water for deeper cleaning: A damp cloth with a little mild soap is enough for most buildup. The supplied information does not recommend specific chemical cleaners, so avoid harsh solvents or abrasive polishes unless you have confirmed they are safe for anodized titanium.
  3. Dry completely: Dry around the screw heads and counterbores. Trapped moisture is less of a concern for titanium than for steel, but keeping the area dry keeps dirt from collecting.
  4. Check tightness with a T-25 torx: The set uses a T-25 torx tool. Check that the hardware remains snug, but do not overtighten—especially if the counterbore in your handle is not perfectly matched to the hardware.

Fit matters more than color: check your knife before installing

Half Face Blades notes that many knives are made by hand, and the counterbore for hardware varies. That means the same titanium set can fit one knife perfectly and sit slightly proud or loose on another. The hardware is intended for most knives from approximately 2022 to present, but the list of models is a compatibility guide, not a promise for every individual blade.

If you are unsure, email [email protected] with questions about fitment before installing. The company also offers to custom-fit the titanium hardware to your knife in house by slightly changing the counter sink. That service is worth considering if you want a flush, secure result and your handle's counterbore looks different from what the hardware expects.

Titanium Hardware (SET of 2) - Anodized Three Battery Blue, HFB-Short

When to skip the DIY install and send your knife in

If your knife is an older model, a custom build, or a pattern not listed above, the standard HFB-Short titanium hardware may not fit without modification. Half Face Blades is working on a longer XL male end to cover more knives and hawks, and on a way for most past knives to fit the new titanium replacement hardware—but those solutions are not yet available according to the supplied information. In the meantime, requesting a custom fit is the safer path when you are unsure.

The company's policy notes that no return label is provided if the hardware does not fit, but a refund is offered. That makes it especially important to ask fitment questions before installing. Once you have confirmed compatibility, the care routine above is simple: keep the hardware clean, dry, and snug, and the anodized color will stay as sharp as the knife it sits on.