Durability of rayskin

BaliLover

BaliLover

Joined
Oct 25, 2000
Messages
1,350
I am thinking about getting a custom made knife with rayskin inlays but the maker is concerned that the rayskin will shrink or fall out of the handle. I really had my heart set on rayskin inlays but I don't want the inlays to fall apart quickly.

Will rayskin shrink or fall out? Is there any way to stabilize it or epoxy it to make it more sturdy?

I know CR put rayskin inlays in a folder (or maybe it was more than one) but I never heard how well it held up. If someone could provide me information I'd really appreciate it.
 
Rayskin is very tough. The Japanese use it on there handles to hold them together and they do a great job of it. To mold it you have to get it wet and when it dries it will shrink slightly. This all I know about it. I have not used it the way you want to so I really dont know if it will fall out or not. Sorry.
 
I can't imagine it would fall out if it were epoxied in place. I have not personally handled the material but it must be pretty tough if it's used on sword handles. This is just speculation, but since it is a leather product then it would seem to me like some sort of treatment would be required periodically to keep it in tip top shape. Try a search of the shop talk archives for rayskin and see if there are instructions for the care and feeding of it.
 
It does not need to be taken care of. After you have it placed all you need to do is clean it if it gets dirty. It is very tough and very strong. You do not have to worry about it toughness or treating it once you have it in place.
 
Microtech has used rayskin inlays ,also. I'd use contact cement on both surfaces. You shouldn't have to worry about wear, or shrinkage, etc.
 
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