Hidden tang help

[triggahappy]

Need a little help here, how do you guys drill into handle material for a hidden tang? I have a whitetail crown that needs a blade stuck in it.

Thanks,
Chris

 

[eric brinkerhoff]

Roto-Ziip bits in your drill press should do it.

 

[tryppyr]

There's no big secret to it. If you're working on a solid block of material use a long drill bit. Mark the handle so you know what shape the hole needs to be and plan your drilling to create the outlines of the hole. Do another pass to clear the material between the outlying holes. Use a broach or files to clean up the hole.

If you're working on a multi piece handle, you can use a larger bit to drill a hole all the way through the center piece, and drill more perfectly sized and shaped slot into the bolster.

 

[Salolan]

Are you using the crown for the bolster or the pommel? I have always done it as tryppyr suggested with a slighly larger drill bit and then widen it out at the throat with my dremel.

Chris

 

[John Andrews]

I suggest using a drillpress and vise for a solid block.

For a scales with hidden tang, a drill press with end mill end bits for most of the routing but first make an outline cut with a smaller fine toothed bit. It will prevent grab, chatter, or ripping out when or if you change out to a larger cutter bit.

Using sharp good bits is wise. It makes the work go easier and much safer. I usually don't actually clamp down the vise if routing scales. I just slide the vice around on the drill press table while the bit does its job. The bit is lowered to the chosen depth and then the chuck shaft is locked into place. Don't ever get into a hurry doing this kind of work and it will be a smooth operation. Most of my knives have hidden full tangs.