Finishing wood handles: oil vs. varnish

D

David Poston

Joined
Jan 6, 2002
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22
I think I may have posted this question before, but here goes...

What's the word on finishing the handle? Oil (e.g. tung oil, linseed oil) vs. varnish or polyurethane? Which will look better, which will be more durable, and which will provide the better grip (very important!)?

Thanks,
David.
 
I am a fan of Danish oil because it is easy to reapply, and won't chip as it soaks in. It also gives a nice finish (with a little beeswax on top) that isn't too glossy and not too slippery, but it all comes down to personal taste. If you do use it don't throw the cloth you used in the bin, because I understand it can spontaneously combust if rags are screwed up!
Hope you find this helpful.
 
I use straight oil, like orange oil. You could apply danish finishing oil, linseed or true oil, and still orange oil afer that. That would be the strongest. True oil is the most utilitarian and easiest (?) linseed and others take a long time to dry, and Dannish isthe Dust bunnie's choice (according to Bill)

I've done enough wood that I prefer simple oil. If it scratches, I put more oil on.

I don't like the look of poly on knife handles, particularly old knife styles.
munk
 
The dust bunnies kick out anything with varnish and use boiled linseed oil on what they keep.
 
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