handle feel like? Is it more like a wood handle or is it cold like a metal riser?

Thanks-Hap

More like wood.

Ever hold a black handled Buck knife?  That's a phenolic handle.

It will also feel a lot heavier than a wood handle.

What is the benefit in the riser except for the added weight?

Stiff, stable, waterproof

I have a modern (2004) Red wing hunter recurve with a thick layer of phenolic in the handle/riser/fade-outs, but with wood in the throat/palm of the grip.  I can't tell the difference b/t the wood/phen (cold/hot), but it is heavier in feel, and therefore, more steady-in-the-hand for me. I like it.

Strength and rigidity.  Some bowyers use it to strengthen the riser for the bow bolt application.  It can also reduce riser flex, which is a good thing.

I'd say the best property of phenolic is 100% stability. If you don't have a micarta handled knife you are missing out.

A bowyer told me, not too long ago, that were he going to hunt dangerous game, he'd likely opt for an all-phenolic riser.

It's greater density makes for a more stable, though be it slightly heavier riser. For my shooting, this translates into a better release, and a steadier bow arm. When you combine it with the rigidity that it gives to the bow itself, it is easy to see why it makes sense to use it. Some would say, [and I can see their point], that it is way less interesting visually than an exotic wood. However there are many examples of bows with micarta/phenolic wood combinations that are simply stunning. Also- like a number of exotic woods- some bowyers do not enjoy working with it because the dust can be irritating.

Isn't it pretty hard on bandsaw blades, too?

As stated above, the Phenolic adds mass weight and more importantly rigidity to your riser.  I didn't think there was much difference until I shot one...if you think your wood riser is not flexing shoot a Phenolic bow and you'll likely change your mind.

Here's a Firefly with a "Phenolic I-Beam" riser.  With the lacewood sideboards it's a good looking bow that is still very resistant to flex.  I like this bow so much my next Firefly will have the Phenolic I-Beam feature.

NICE BOWS THOSE,FIRE FLYS

Yep, trim it with some nice wood and it makes a good looking riser

I now have three bows all Morrisons with 100% all phenolic risers - no lines or splices just solid black phenolic. I love them and would never go back to wood.

Phenolic is so much easier to care for. Fall and ding or scratch it - I use some spit and some wet and dry sandpaper - in under a minute looks like new. As for waterproof - the phenolic will abosrb some moisture in extreme wet conditions but I have yet to see anything that would concern me. This past fall I left bow hanging in tree for four days of contant rain - not something I would ever do with a wood bow.

How would a solid phenolic riser compare, cost-wise, with a laminated wood riser in something like cocobolo, bocote, or macassar ebony?

The same, with a John McDonald "Big River" Bow, he doesn't care ... Anyone else ???? Not Sure, Probably More ...

The bowyers are achieving the same thing Black Widow does with phenolic and plywood. A heavy , rigid riser . Helps with holding steady and consistancy. I have a Widow recurve and think they have really hit on one of the best  designs around  in the PSA. As for longbows I have 2 of another Bowyers as the PL does not suit me. One opinion. Thanks , Flinthead

Thanks for the responses. I found out today a new bow is on hold for the next 4-5 months.
Rotator cuff and a bone spur in the left shoulder. I think I'll wait and see how that turns out.

Thanks again-Hap

Wood or phenolic,very hard to feel the differance.Phenolic spliced risers are georgous!!