Finish for stabilized wood

Wissler · Feb 26, 2019

Been a lurker for a few years. "Handled" a couple dozen knife blanks and finally got a really nice 2X72 belt grinder from Brad Jansen, so I'm working on some stock removal currently.

What finish are you guys using for stabilized wood handles? I've done several handles with stabilized woods, but typically I've just sanded down to 1000 grit and buffed on my Harbor Freight buffer afterwards. I really want my handles to pop and show the amazing woods without chipping or flaking off after awhile. Please don't say CA glue....

Bill DeShivs · Feb 26, 2019

Properly stabilized wood should be finished exactly as you do. Put a coat of wax on afterward.

Kevin Kf knives · Feb 26, 2019

After I buff, I have a high friction polish I use. It looks pretty nice, gives it that little extra shine. I put it on with a cut up piece of tshirt. I initially got it for a finish on pens that I turn on a lathe.

MBB · Feb 26, 2019

I personally like Tru-Oil because it is easy and hard to mess up.

Carterwhopkins · Feb 26, 2019

I make chef knives and like TruOil, it is not slippery when wet and it provides a tough durable finish that seals the wood....it is easy to reapply, if necessary. I have knives that have been in professional kitchens for years with no issues.

S.Alexander · Feb 26, 2019

I also like a coat or two of tru oil on stabilized handles

Randydb · Feb 27, 2019

I sand through 2000 grit, 2-3 coats tru-oil.

Maelstrom78 · Feb 27, 2019

I put on very thin coats of Tru Oil. I apply with a finger and wipe it off. There is just a sheen left. Wait 30 minutes and then I "buff" a little bit and then do the same thing. After around 6 coats it has a nice satin look to it IMO.

I really like how it makes paper micarta look. I went to the very thin coats after a few knives in a certain light you could see "lines" in the tru oil from it's application.