First knife handle question:

[michdad]

Finally, after more than a year of lurking, reading, and grinding, I might have a pair of utility style knives worthy of handles. I have 2 larger full tang knives ground from A-2. I am almost ready for the final fit of the cocabola handles. While grinding out the blades, and smoothing the tangs, the tangs have become curved. Thicker in the middle, both sides and ends nice and even. This has caused a gap on both ends when the handles are mounted.

Here's my question: Am I better off grinding down steel, grinding down wood, or is either the best, just how I want the finished look?

Matt

 

[AcridSaint]

You'll want a flat tang since they're full tang knives. You may want to file or sand it flat instead of trying to grind it.

 

[michdad]

You'll want a flat tang since they're full tang knives. You may want to file or sand it flat instead of trying to grind it.

Same suggestion came from a pm. Guess that's what is next! Off to the bench, and I'll let you know how it turns out. Thanks.

Matt

 

[Patrickknives]

You might lie the blade on a flat surface and see how much needs to be taken off to make the tang flat. If its too much wrap the blade in wet cloth and heat the tang to red hot, place in vice and clamp. This will help straighten without changing the temper of the blade.