Hi All... Newbie here...

W

wgreen584

Joined
Dec 29, 2005
Messages
2
Brand new to the site, and have done a lot of reading. Great site by the way.
I'm currently working on a project of re handling a knife that my deceased father used to carry when hunting. Just an old Schrade Skinner style, with a full length tang. Would like to replace broken handles with some deer antlers that I have,(think that it would look sharp).... but, I'll need to split the antler to be able to attach to both sides of the tang. Any ideas on best way to split the antler? Also the blade looks rough, would like to maybe polish it up? Any ideas in that area as well. Thanks for any and all input.
 
I don't know about the antler, but you can buy some nice stuff online for less trouble probably. About the blade- what's rough about it? If it's nicked, a bit of sandpaper starting low and going really high for a satin finish, or bead blasting once you sand off the nicks.
 
Read a lot more and post a picture of the knife if you can. Stag is not the easiest to work with at the best of times and for a first time effort.............?!?!
But, ask the questions and read as much as you can on the subject(I'm talking about books)besides here.

Someone will be along soon to help you in more detail, I'm sure.

Welcome to BFC! Enjoy!:D
 
well, welcome first of all (from one newbie to another)

if you have a bandsaw that will easily split the antler for ya, or like the other guy said buying something online that is already cut to size might be easier. I shop at texas knifemaker supplies for most of my stuff, you might try them.


reguards,

dave
 
There is antler and there is antler.The antler used in knives is not the same one you go hunting for usually.Antler is split on a band saw,often with a special jig.Buying scales already split is a good choice.As said by others ,antler is a bit tricky to start on.You can do it with files,and wet or dry sandpaper.Fitting it to the tang and riveting it can cause you to take up swearing.Something like Dymondwood,stabilized woods,or micarta can be purchased as scales (matched slabs) and might be easier to do. Remember,you can always change it later when you have someone to help,or have more experience.
The blade can be cleaned up to any condition you desire by sanding with a piece of wet or dry paper wrapped around a block of wood.If desired,and with a bit of knowledge,you could mirror polish the blade by hand this way.To start with,clean up the edge on a sharpening stone until all the nicks are out.Don't worry about sharpening it at this point.Then sand the sides clean with 100 grit .Go to 220 grit and sand out the scratches from the 100.Do this again with 400 grit.At this point you can stop,or continue on to the finest grit available - 8000.If you continue you may want to use the paper either wet or dry,try both ways and see which does best.This will all be a time consuming project,don't try to rush it.
Make Dad proud by how much effort you put into the knife.If you get stuck,or need more info,either post it here,or send me a private message.Good luck,and welcome to BF.
- Stacy
PS: Tell us where you are,and post a photo of the blade.
 
Thanks for all of the replies. The reason that I'm so dead set on the antler, is this was the last deer my father took with me, when he was alive. He didn't believe in mounting deer, but we kept the antlers. I have several boxes of antlers, so I have plenty to practice on until I feel comfortable. I will try the band saw this week.

For those who inquired about my location, I'm located in Arcadia, FL. Firefighter/ Paramedic of around 12 years. This is going to be my hobbie, so I'm looking forward to the experience.
 
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