Finishing Handles

[me2]

I'm working on a wood and leather stacked handle and was wondering what the best way to finish it will be. Its cherry wood stacked with black leather for spacer material and will be epoxied together. I have polyurethane and linseed oil now. Is there something else I need?

 

[johnggrg]

A picture will help with this. I have used linseed oil on many gunstocks. I have never used polyurethane the linseed oil was enough. But as far as the leather goes I don't know. Like I said a picture would help. Here is a link with alot of tips that MIGHT help you out. John
http://www.northcoastknives.com/northcoast_knives_tutorials_hints_tips3.htm

 

[byersj79]

I've never used leather and wood on the same knife but I'll tell you how I finish the two. Cherry wood I sand to 400 grit and use tung oil. I usually rub in 3 or 4 coats letting it dry good between coats. I have heard of people using linseed oil and a thinner together but I've never used it myself. On leather it depends on what look you want if you sand off the smooth side and sand the rough side to match you won't get a seem when you stack two pieces together. I like the seem so I leave the smooth side and stack against a rough side. I stack, rough out and finish sand to 600 grit then I dye to what color I want sand to 600 and dye again. I dry with a hair dryer on the lowest setting and I pay attention not to get it too hot. This will harden up the leather a little. I finish to 1000 grit to get a good polish then lightly use mink oil or sno-seal to weather proof it. Usually it needs multiple light coats. After it soaks in good I give it a light buff with a soft rag. This method works well for me but I'm sure there is other makers who will give you good advise too.