Cold Steel Laredo Bowie- Handle Replacement

Vanguard.45 · Jul 15, 2006

I am a big fan of the CS Laredo Bowie blade shape and size, but have heard that the handle is a bit slick. I have also heard that the handle has a "rat-tail" tang running through it with a bolt in the end securing the tang and the handle. Finally, I have heard the brass guard is sometimes fit a bit sloppily.

So, here are my questions:

1. Is the Laredo Bowie good to go as it is, or are my concerns founded?

2. In your opinion, would it be possible and/ or advisable to "re-do" the handle/ guard with better materials considering the type of tang used?

3. If so, what materials would you use for the handle/ guard and in what shapes?

4. Next, do you think the quality of the blade is worth the time, cost, and trouble this endeavor would require?

5. Finally, does anyone have any suggestions as to who might do this kind of work?

Thanks in advance for your time!

Vanguard.45

Vanguard.45 · Jul 25, 2006

Thanks in advance!

Vanguard.45

Bors · Jul 25, 2006

Here is a link to a guy who does the kind of work your looking for.
http://www.sunrisecustomknives.com/repairs/repairs.html

Vanguard.45 · Jul 25, 2006

I'll definitely be giving this guy a call!

Vanguard.45

GibsonFan · Jul 26, 2006

That link Bors put up is really cool, looks like the guy does really nice work. And he's done a bunch of Trailmasters, so I bet he has it down to a system.

On the other hand you could do it yourself a lot cheaper, if you have some tools and do some reading.

You may want to consider this, too, as long as you're going to have the handle off:
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?p=3869461#post3869461

Vanguard.45 · Aug 13, 2006

I read the link you posted, but I am apparently illiterate in such matters. What does it mean to "anneal" the tang? What are the advantages to doing such a thing? Is it a necessary step in maximizing the performance of such a blade?

If you could just put it into layman's terms, it would be most appreciated!

Thanks in advance!

Vanguard.45

Bill DeShivs · Aug 13, 2006

Annealing means to soften the steel through heating. It is not necessary, and could screw up your blade if you are not careful. Some of these guys go a little overboard.
It sounds to me like you just want a customized knife. If so, have it done, or do it yourself. It's really not hard. If you have a drill, a propane torch,a few files, and some sandpaper-all it takes is time and work.
Bill

rev_jch · Aug 16, 2006

Well, I own three, and have never had any of those problems.

As far as the tang, the handle is attached appropriately considering its a "through" tang.

The handle is "faux" cocobolo, i.e. hardwood laminated to look like cocobolo. Cold steel calls it a composite, but it is a wood laminate.

The "fit and finish" of mine, are all fine (and I tend to be a critic in this area).

I myself have heard negative things, but in the last 2 (?) years I have owned them, I havent had any complaints. One of them does go on trips with me hiking/packing.

The only thing I can say is that the blade will rust. It is a decent carbon steel, but it does require care (maint., etc.).