Contouring handles?

[sph3ric pyramid]

Just about ready to start putting the scales on a new knife, and would like to contour the handles. Is there a way to do this evenly without the use of powertools?

 

[dhannon]

There's always a way to do what we do without power tools. Just takes longer and a little more care. To be honest, I've only recently taken to using the power tools for most of the handle. (still not all, maybe never all of the handle) Files and sand paper work excellent on handle material, and provide a much closer relationship between you and the work allowing for better detail on the symmetry and shape.

Give it a go ....

Dan

 

[sph3ric pyramid]

Do I just go after one side, and then do the other, or is there a way to do both at once to get a better symetry?

 

[itrade]

I'm with Dan. No reason not to do a great job with hand tools.

My tip: Add marks.

Here's what I do:

After the slabs are on, place the knife, edge down pointing away from you.

Mark 2 lines equal distance from center (this is easy on a full tang knife) with a pencil and straight edge. Half the thickness of the scales is fine. 4 evenly spaced lines are even better.

Now mark cross lines every inch or so.

Do this on the underside too, if you can.

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With those reference points, you'll be amazed just how symmetrical you can be as you shape things.

Hope that idea helps,

Steve

 

[TJ Smith]

You can use emory cloth and tear it into strips or get sanding belts or strips and use them like a shoe shine rag. Put the knife in a vise so the handle sticks out and shine away. works good.
Take Care
TJ

 

[sph3ric pyramid]

Thanks guys, I'll try that all out.

 

[Jason Cutter]

Heres a tip. If you want to do hand shaping, it might be worthwhile starting with thinner handle slabs. If you've seen folders and small "tactical" type knives, you'll notice that minimal contouring is required on a thin handle - it still feels pretty good. On a thin handle, the material can be dead flat on the sides and just rounded at the corners and feel pretty good.

The thicker a handle, the more shaping there needs to be to feel good, and the more skilful the work needs to be.

Just for your consideration. Jason.