best way to restore stacked leather handle

A

arbytwo

Joined
Apr 21, 2013
Messages
79
So I happened to come across a Pal RH36 wwII vintage U.S. military knife. It's not in bad shape but the leather discs on the handle have shrunk so that the pommel is loose. I'm a little hesitant to use neat's foot oil for fear that it would soften the discs. Is there an oil that will recondition the leather without softening it? Thanks for any help.
 
Moving this to a more appropriate forum where you will likely get answers sooner.
 
Okay, thanks. I'm impressed with the knowledge of the HI forum members but you know this site better than I do.
 
Once it's loose like that I've found tht the only way to get it tight was dissassemble it and add leather discs. Takes more of them than you'd expect, and it's tricky to re-peen the pommel. Much easier with the threaded nut assembly system.
 
by2, I have a Pal 36 as well. From that era the knife would be close to 70yrs.. For a knife of that age leather aging would be normal. If the gap is over 1/16" I doubt Neets Foot oil will take the wobble out. So, that means knocking the pommel pin out and adding a leather disc, like ^ he said. It's not a big deal but if you've never done something like this before. It requires some thought, planning a vise and basic tools.
Once you knock the old pin out you'll probably have to go back with a new pin. The pommel on mine is aluminum. A stainless rod at a hardware store could match. I used a nail as it was handy. It looks to be 1/8". You'll want it to look original. So, after cutting the leather to fit, press it back on tight. Sand it. Then I would use a coat of Neets Foot oil to blend it in. This won't soften it as much as you think. The sheaths weren't so good on those models either. It probably needs a new one as well. Then you'll have a good 6" knife with some history. That blade could have been used to help a soldier in time of need. Good luck, DM
 
Last edited:
I measure it 6 1/4" from point to guard. There is about 1/2" at the guard that is not sharpened.
 
Mine is 5 7/8" and no more. Plus, it's edge bevel is somewhat thick. The steel looks to be A2 as it has pittings but no rust. I wouldn't think the GI knives of WWII would have any better steels. DM
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top