To get started, you'll need a few basic tools - Torx drivers in sizes T6 and T10, as well as a small flathead screwdriver. Having a ruled mat or rollout pad provides a clean workspace. Make sure you have a solid surface to work on. Gather all the scale components and hardware, taking care not to lose anything.

Begin by using the T6 Torx driver to remove the pocket clip and screws, setting them aside safely. Then switch to the T10 driver to remove the screws securing the backspacer on the spine of the knife. With the blade pivoted out, you should now be able to fully separate the two handle scales.

You may need to use the flathead screwdriver to gently pry the G-10 scales off the lanyard tube at the butt end of the knife. Take care in this area, as you don't want to scratch the liners or scales. On one side, the liner will easily lift out. On the other compression lock side, the liner is captured making removal slightly trickier - look for the small divot to lever it out.

With the old scales off, take a look at the new aftermarket scales you'll be installing. Most will have cut-outs or sculpting that makes it obvious which liner goes with which scale. Test fit the liners into the new scales, ensuring they insert snugly. Note that the PM2 has a longer and shorter backspacer - the longer one installs towards the front where it sits inside the liner channel.

When reassembling, install the pivot first, making sure the flat side faces the back. This correctly indexes it in the liners. Then install the blade along with a brass washer on each side. With the washers in place, carefully reattach the first new scale, starting at the lanyard tube end and aligning everything before pressing it into place until it snaps on.

Installing the second scale requires a bit more finesse. Ensure the lanyard tube is perfectly centered between the liners before pressing that scale fully on. The lanyard tube should fit extremely tightly with no visible gaps once aligned. At this point you can install any remaining backspacer and pivot screws, tightening them only enough to be snug. Don't torque them fully yet.

With the screws just snug, you can now adjust the pivot screws to center the blade between the new scales perfectly. An off-center blade looks sloppy and can affect the knife's action. Once the blade is centered, use the T10 driver to evenly tighten all the screws down fully on each side, going back and forth to torque them gradually.

Finally, reattach the pocket clip using the T6 screws. Open and close the knife a few times to get a feel for the action with the new scales installed. If the action seems a bit too tight, you may need to slightly back off the pivot screws to apply less friction on the blade. Finding that perfect pivot tension is key.

With those steps complete, you've totally revamped the entire aesthetics of your PM2 with custom scales of your choice. Don't be afraid to disassemble and customize your knives - it's very rewarding to add your own personal touches to a quality American-made knife like the Para Military 2.

Some prefer swapping scales purely for aesthetics, while others aim to reduce weight or optimize grip ergonomics based on their hand size and intended use. There's an endless array of colors, textures, and materials available, popular choices include titanium, carbon fiber, micarta, and stabilized wood scales.

So pick up some fresh scales and transform your PM2 into something uniquely your own. The customization process allows you to experience the iconic design in totally new ways while unlocking its full potential as a hard-working everyday carry-cutting tool.