How can I modify g10 scales to be smoother?

[MTHall720]

I have a couple of knives I want to make G10 scales smoother. Couldn't find too much on this specific a subject using Google.

Will this work: Hand sanding using about 800 grit paper, followed by 1200? Will it make the scales smoother, yet not look scratchy?

I also wanted to know if the same technique could be applied to blades which are flat black coated to make them take a bit more of a shine?

 

[dsmegst]

Sanding as you described will work on G-10. 1200 will leave a smooth surface.

Before you start, I suggest you do it outside while wearing a respirator or wet sanding with automotive sandpaper (wet or dry). The dust is very bad for your lungs and you don't want to get that stuff in your house or in your lungs. Wet sanding will keep the dust down and go down the drain instead.

If you add some polishing after the 1200 grit, you can get a really nice reflective finish. I use Flitz polish on a cotton cloth. Here's an example:

I doubt you can do the same for the coating on the blade though. I've never tried it but I think you'd end up destroying the coating instead.

One last thing, tape up everything before you start. One mistake and you'll end up scratching the hell out of something.

 

[MTHall720]

Thanks very much. I appreciate the warning too! I didn't know G10 was so harmful to the lungs.

 

[EricV]

I've heard of people rubbing the black T coatings on Emersons with mothers mag polish on a rag to get a bit of a shine to it. The coating is pretty thick on Emersons in general though, so it would likely just rub the coating right off of most knives.

 

[Tostig]

Be careful sanding your G10 , go slow.

You cannot undo what is done , you know ? Get it too dull and your stuck with it.
G10 can be sanded flat and polished just like anything else , it will take a nice shine if you desire.

I've heard of people rubbing the black T coatings on Emersons with mothers mag polish on a rag to get a bit of a shine to it. The coating is pretty thick on Emersons in general though, so it would likely just rub the coating right off of most knives.

Yeap ,easy to find products like Flitz or Wenol work too but may wear away some of the coating , shouldnt bug too much though since it will eventually wear off anyway.

Tostig