I have been trying, with limited results, to research strategy for attaching handles to hidden tang blades. The bladeforum search engine isn't working (at least not for me) so forgive me if I am requesting info already covered.
I want to try a slab handle approach on my new blade and have an idea I would like to try. I have two holes drilled into the tang and am considering mounting short pins that would project only 3/32 on either side. These projections would be mated to holes on the inside of the slabs that were drilled at a slight angle rearward. This angled hole would act as a ramp drawing the blade rearward into the handle. The idea is that normal clamping pressure would also preload assembly pressure on the blade, guard and slabs while the epoxy cured.
This is for a small 4" blade that will be used for field dressing deer. The most strenuous activity would be splitting the chest cavity cartilage.
Has anyone tried this approach? If this is folly - I'd appreciate the benefit or your experience.
I want to try a slab handle approach on my new blade and have an idea I would like to try. I have two holes drilled into the tang and am considering mounting short pins that would project only 3/32 on either side. These projections would be mated to holes on the inside of the slabs that were drilled at a slight angle rearward. This angled hole would act as a ramp drawing the blade rearward into the handle. The idea is that normal clamping pressure would also preload assembly pressure on the blade, guard and slabs while the epoxy cured.
This is for a small 4" blade that will be used for field dressing deer. The most strenuous activity would be splitting the chest cavity cartilage.
Has anyone tried this approach? If this is folly - I'd appreciate the benefit or your experience.
