How to polish micarta?

[Cisco Kid]

I have a knife with light micarta handles. I think it's paper micarta. I would like to polish them to a high luster, but I'm not sure how to do it. Saw other threads about it but have a few questions.

My polishing set-up is very simple. I have a Foredom Bench Lathe with 4" wheels. Can I use it with Fabulustre on the micarta?

Alternatively, I have a set of Micromesh pads that go to very fine grits. Are those a better way to do it?

The scales are pinned. Do I need any special care with the metal pins?

Thanks for any advice.

 

[Bill DeShivs]

If the Foredom is variable speed, then yes. Paper Micarta is easily overheated and discolored.
You could micro polish it, and then "shoeshine" buff with Simichrome or Fabulustre. A coat of paste wax or neutral paste shoe polish will finish it up.
Some white paper Micartas are porous and buffing compounds will imbed. A paste of baking soda, detergent and a little water rubbed in vigorously with the fingers will usually remove it.

 

[Cisco Kid]

Thank you very much, sir.