A New York Special WIP **VIDEO ADDED**

Now it's time to apply the scales and liners. I modified a Universal 76 frame clamp to do this and I get great results. The scale face that mates with the guard is cut at 1 1/2 degrees because my tang tapers are so radical. Cutting the back of the scale to be parallel with the mating face is necessary to get a good tight fit when using the clamp to push the scale against the guard. I use four clamps to secure the scale to the tang after the rear clamp pressure is applied.

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The fixture holds the knife by the ricasso and correctly orients the tang to drill the corby rivet holes......two wedges are placed under the scale to prevent flexing during drilling.

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The lanyard tube is roughed in the drill press in order to give the glue something to bite on.

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Finally the 1/4" pilot holes are counterbored with a step drill for the 5/16" stainless corby rivets.

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After the corby rivets are inserted the whole handle and guard is shaped. I keep a bucket of water close by - if the guard is allowed to get too hot, the solder joint will melt and run. A final word on ivory micarta - the stuff is beautiful but hard to work. Sharp belts, low speeds and a lot of hand sanding is in order because it smears if it gets too hot. The knife handle will be shaped, then hand sanded to 2500 grit with a green matchless buff between each grit to reveal the scratches. I always charge an upgrade fee when using ivory micarta because of the extra labor involved - sorry Joe!! Lately, I've starting using Masecraft Supply's "alternative ivory" which is good stuff.

Here's the finished knife with maker's mark, ready for leather.

NYS.jpg
 
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Thank you for the detailed soldering sequence. This feature is essential in the knives I collect and your work, seen in the four examples I have, is equal to or better than the ancient masters in my collection. (Ancient, not old, because we are all old).
 
I'm Lovin' It....! ®

'Driveway from Hell' Lol. Heaven awaits up top when you get past the gatekeeper's work.
 
wow, i did not know that about ivory micarta. i have never tried it. is it linen or paper ? by smearing do you mean the color of the sandpaper gets into the handle surface ?
 
This is what makes the difference in a well done full tang knife

The tapered tang

Well done my friend
 
lawp said:
Thank you for the detailed soldering sequence. This feature is essential in the knives I collect and your work, seen in the four examples I have, is equal to or better than the ancient masters in my collection. (Ancient, not old, because we are all old).
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Thank you Sir - a comment on being old: I used to consider it a curse until I realized a lot of people don't get the privilege of getting old!
 
john april said:
wow, i did not know that about ivory micarta. i have never tried it. is it linen or paper ? by smearing do you mean the color of the sandpaper gets into the handle surface ?
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Hi John! It's paper based. If the speed of the belt is too high or the belt is dull and generates heat, the surface turns into the texture of grated cheddar cheese - no kidding. After 220 grit, it's all hand sanding to 2500 grit for this cowboy.....too risky any other way.
 
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TK, earlier you detailed after you finish the solder job you "boil the whole knife in a mixture of Dawn & Baking Soda) Boiling does not affect the heat treat?

Steve
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Member, W.F. Moran Jr. Foundation
ABS Apprentice
 
Steve Nuckels said:
TK, earlier you detailed after you finish the solder job you "boil the whole knife in a mixture of Dawn & Baking Soda) Boiling does not affect the heat treat?

Steve
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Member, W.F. Moran Jr. Foundation
ABS Apprentice
Click to expand...

Water boils at 212 degrees.

That is a couple hundred degrees lower then would effect HT.
 
Steve Nuckels said:
TK, earlier you detailed after you finish the solder job you "boil the whole knife in a mixture of Dawn & Baking Soda) Boiling does not affect the heat treat?

Steve
----------
Member, W.F. Moran Jr. Foundation
ABS Apprentice
Click to expand...

Steve: Boiling at 212 degrees won't affect the heat treat - the knife was tempered at 1000 degrees.
 
I really appreciate the wip Tim, This is great helps for us to learn by. It is always good to have someone share their techniques, I for one can learn more with pictures better than words. Always a joy to view your work and to call you a friend.
 
I had some sewing machine issues slowing me down but we're back on track. Here's Joe's New York Special with an ambidextrous horizontal sheath. I'm hoping that some of you got a tidbit or two to help you out.

V/R,

TK



 
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The knife turned out great, and yes the WIP was very informative, thank you for sharing.
 
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