how to make a micarta handle

[octave210]

ok new to this. wanted to start out by making a new handle for my knife. If i buy a block of black linen micarta what would i use to cut and shape the material the way i wanted it?

 

[miden]

The best way to cut it is with a bandsaw but if you do not have one a hand held steel saw with a coarse blade (18 tpi) at least works well too. If you have no power tools this would be the way to go.
You can cut the profile out with it too, it goes quite easily. Then you use course files and finish with finer ones and then sand paper.
You mention a block. Scales are available in various thicknesses too, I have a piece of 3/8'' which is a good thickness for the average blade, it also saves you the trouble of getting it flat.
There is a danger in the dust tho, some threads were very recently posted regarding this, especially if you use power sanders etc.
Do yourself a favor and read up about that.
Good luck,

Mike

 

[Ilovetoolsteel]

ok new to this. wanted to start out by making a new handle for my knife. If i buy a block of black linen micarta what would i use to cut and shape the material the way i wanted it?

I use a jig saw to cut the material roughly to shape. (slightly larger than the finished size). I glue it up and work it down to size with my belt grinder. Then I fine tune the shape with a coarse half round file and finish sand with wet/dry paper.