While an integral would theoretically be stronger, I'm sure we all realize that with Nathan's knives, that point is kinda moot (especially the one that's described as being made to be able to hammer a loophole through a wall, for observation/snipers).
Until the folder debuts, his knives are already a solid slab of steel, with scales mounted to them.
Until the folder debuts, his knives are already a solid slab of steel, with scales mounted to them.