Carved handle concept!

[JCaswell]

Something a lot of guys don't think of, though it's a perfect connection IMO, is the type of woodwork associated with early American gun making/embellishment--especially for a traditional form like Bowies. A notable exception was Moran's work with the curly carved maple and silver wire inlay--very traditional, but so seldom done in modern times (until he started doing it) that it became associated with him.

I would encourage you to look into the work of John Bivens (a high-end muzzleloder maker). He specialized in really elegant early-Americanized Baroque style that is really something.
There are several stock carving tutorials by him (among a great many other things) in a book called: Gunsmithing Tips and Projects by Wolfe.

Good luck!

 

[scottickes]

Thank you Mr. Caswell. I'll check it out.

 

[scottickes]

Well, here are some photos of my efforts. Two photos of the three knife blanks that I'm ready to start grinding on. Also three photos of my first carving effort. I don't think it's as bad as I first thought, but I'm still not happy with it. The carving is out of basswood, as just a practice piece, so I didn't worry about the border at all. It's my interpretation of a mountain range with fir tree indications at the base and up the ridges.

I might try it on a real knife. The worst that could happen is that I have to start the handle over.

 

[scottickes]

I was at my dentist today for my check up. I mentioned to him that I'm a knifemaker and that I was beginning to get into carving scenes on and through the handles. I told him a friend (one of the guys from the carvers club meeting that I attended last week) had mentioned that used dental handpieces are far superior to the dremel that I currently use. I asked him if he knew of a source for a used handpiece.

He told me that he'd look into it, and also dug into his drawer of small cutting burrs. He gave me two small ball shaped diamond burrs and a small cone shaped carbide burr. He said they'd cut much better than my dremel burrs. He asked if he could see some of my knives the next time I was in to see him, since he collects knives. I was getting excited now, but trying not to show it. I just happened to have two of my knives in the car, and brought them in for him to look at. He said, "If I can find you a used dental handpiece, would you be willing to trade a knife for one?"

Of course, I would, since I know that a new dental handpiece costs from $7500 to $9000!! He now has my cell phone number is going to look for one for me. He said that a dentist friend of his, who is also a knife collector, plays around with rebuilding hand pieces as a hobby. It might cost me two knives, but still worth it in my opinion.

 

[scottickes]

The top and bottom tools are diamond and the middle one is carbide. Nice snag. Now, if he comes through with a dental handpiece, I'm going to be a really happy camper!

 

[mete]

Scott, the word is serendipity !

 

[tom kernan]

wow, hope that works out Scott, A pipe crafter I know uses that set up and swears by it.

 

[artcreek]

Hi scott , now that you mention it I recently saw some japanese tsukas handles and they were carved to look like a fully wrapped sword handle It was beautiful lots of work but , they look great . I think you have a good idea ....... JIM

 

[Mike Davis]

If you are concerned with the raised pieces creating an uncomfortable grip(you mentioned blisters), you could fill in the carving with an acrylic resin. Also, maybe try to use stabilized wood when doing the actual handle, might cut down on shrinkage, cracking etc. just some thoughts....

 

[scottickes]

Scott, I probably have a dozen carving books. Do you want to borrow some? I'd be glad to send them to you on loan.
Stacy

Stacy,
The carving books arrived. Thank you! I board a plane for Sacramento tomorrow and will be taking a couple with me for "in flight" entertainment and educational purposes.