Celluloid scales?

[TorzJohnson]

I don't have any celluloid handled knives, but some of the Winchester patterns with Xmas Tree or Glitter Stripe look pretty nice. I've always heard in the past that celluloid is pretty unstable, flammable and brittle. Has modern science made any improvements to this stuff that would make it a viable choice for a user knife?

 

[nifrand]

Some of the older patterns the scales start to break down and cause corrosion problems.
I think the modern stuff has a better chemical makeup.Personally I love "Waterfall".The pattern moves and looks like water.

 

[Gus Kalanzis]

I agree with nifrand.
There are quite a few in my collection. I am quite wary of the antiques, but the modern one (Case Classics and Winchester) have held up well (Some for over 10 years). I have used Ren. Wax on all of mine (old and modern).

 

[bob bowie]

Hi,

The celluloid handles that seem to have the most problems are the lighter colors(fuax pearl,ivory, etc...). The most important thing's to remember are to keep them away from flame, don't store them in air tight container's, and don't expose them to too much oil.

Hope this help's!!!

 

[nifrand]

Bob:thanks for the tips.

 

[knifenerd]

Celluloid was used extensively in advertising knives in the 30's thru 50's. I believe it was fairly unstable for scale material.

As far as modern celluloid goes, I have a couple of high end pens made of the stuff and it is reputed to be very long wearing and stable.