handle cleaning

[kokoek9]

Hi, I just bought a kukri I believe is a service #2. the handle is made of horn but it is not polished, there is something on the handle, it looks like ground in dirt but Im not sure what can I clean the handle with that will not damage it thanks Mike

 

[davidf99]

I would try washing it first. Don't rub hard because if there is ground in dirt it could scratch the horn and make more work for you.

After getting off any superficial dirt, I would use sandpaper. Start with extra fine, and if that doesn't take off enough surface material, use fine or even medium (but carefully). Once you find a good starting point, sand the handle with increasingly high grits of sandpaper until you like the result. I like to go up to 2000 grit, but if this is going to be a user you might stop at 400 grit. After sanding, you could apply a coat of Hooflex, which is very good for preserving horn and bring it to a nice luster.

 

[Bawanna]

The pictures not great but it looks very thirsty to me. I'd probably do exactly what david suggested but might mineral oil or hoof flex first. Giving it some nourishment will by itself fill some of the voids.

Once it's no longer thirsty a buffing wheel might be all it takes to polish it back up.

Looks like the butt cap still fits properly so it hasn't shrunk much.

 

[kokoek9]

thanks I have some sno seal, it is a silicone beeswax paste will that work as a finish. I haven't the faintest idea about caring for horn thanks

 

[kokoek9]

here is a better pic of the worst side