Hey MULE owners! Question about putting scales on non-stainless knives...

hookahhabib

hookahhabib

Joined
Feb 24, 2011
Messages
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So I just ordered a set of G10 scales for my k390 Mule and should have them soon. I have one question about putting them on- do I need to prep the handle before attaching the G10 so as to prevent corrosion build-up between the scales and knife handle? If so, what would you recommend I do? Polish it with some fine sand paper? Just put a generous layer of mineral oil on in between the scales and the steel? something else?

Or is it the kind of thing where I should periodically take the scales off and address corrosion as it arises?


I had been using a paracord wrap up until now, but the humidity in my current location is such that I've been getting pretty substantial build up of mold growing on the paracord in a matter of days and it's getting pretty gross...

Thanks guys!
 
Haven't done it yet to my K390 Mule, but I am going to try Tuff Cloth. Seems to be popular and relatively inexpensive.
 
I make only removable scales for my Mules. And because the tang is not sealed with epoxy, you need to ensure that you take care to prevent corrosion. Before you mount the scales, wipe the tang down with TufCloth and let it air dry before mounting the scales. Then every few months - or after you've gotten the Mule wet and grimy - remove the scales, clean and re-coat with TufCloth. It only takes a few seconds.

The other option is to mount the scales permanently with epoxy so that moisture does not build up behind the scales...

TedP
 
Thanks for the advice guys :thumbup:


I've ordered some Tuff Cloth and will see how that works out...hopefully it gets here before I leave the country again!

Epoxy is tempting, but I may eventually put my own scales on, so a removable solution is best for me right now.


Thanks again :)
 
I making my second set of scales for my mules. It's a fun process. The stabilized wood and epoxy would prevent blade corrosion everywhere except for the exposed tang between the two scales. Think spine and edge on back. Also post pics please.
 
As far as i know Ren wax doesn't actually repel moisture its a good protector but if your in a wet/damp environment I'd look for something with more water resistant qualities.
 
I use removable scales on my non corrosion resistant steels. Despite coating with silicone ( my usual preferred is A.G.Russel's clear liquid 100% silicone) after cleaning I still want to be able to easily take the grips off for re cleaning and coating. I only break it down when needed but it's a nice option to have on the Super Blue, 52100, and even Cruwear steel mules.

I think a more permanent install using regular methods including epoxy is nice but I keep all but a couple ( Cruwear, 52100, CTS B75 users) stripped and coated until needed. Why the 3 above out of all? I just like them and they are a known quantity and have properties I like for every day type activities. CPM M4 fits in performance wise but I have probably 7-9 folders in CPM M4 . S90V is always great but I usually reach for one of the others mostly out of habit. K390 I don't have much experience with yet.
 
I use an epoxy, so never have to worry about it.
If you want to remove the scales which were glued down with it: let it stay in a boiling water for 15-30 minutes... Well, at least that worked with wooden scales (no, I did not consider re-using the scales though they looked all right)!
As for having removable scales: I would consider applying some silicone sealant along the edge: a "doors and windows" type... I think it should do it.
 
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