Just Got My First Ganza Package!!....Got a Question

JCW

JCW

Joined
May 12, 2001
Messages
242
Hi folks -

I just got my first Ganza package which includes the SOB with the Tigerhide handles. I noticed that the handle color is much much lighter...almost a faded version of the color in the photo from the Ganza announcement (see below). The photo shows a much deeper/darker color.

nCZcGYb.jpg



Is this normal for the Tigerhide and the photo just came out different (due to lighting, etc.)?

Is there a way to bring out or deepen the color like in the photo? I've read about some folks applying mineral oil to their micarta handles to bring out the color, but I don't know if that would be a permanent fix. I just wanted to double check. Is there another kind of oil anyone would recommend for this handle material that would give me these results and last?

Sorry, I can't find my camera or I'd upload a photo. :(

Thanks very much!
 
They are new (and dry) that's why, black canvas for instance don't look exactly "black" when they are brand new, but after you handled them for a period of time the true color will show up. micarta will absorb moisture from our hands which will eventually bring out deeper colors, so no need to apply any oil on them IMO, play with your knife for a few days and you will see:)
 
The beauty about micarta is that you can touch a spot with plain water to see if you like it darker. If not, blot with a paper towel or just let dry. If so, my preferred method is to thoroughly wash the scales with any old toothbrush and mild dish soap, rinse well and then let dry. They should look even lighter at least by a little once clean & dry. Once dry, apply mineral oil until "wet", then after a few moments, blot excess oil away. This wears off fairly quickly, but it's simple to reapply...and if you change your mind, another handle wash or 2 will remove the oil and restore the color back to its lighter version. It's also non-toxic/food safe, which is a big plus. :)

Both BATAC LE handles in this pic are nearly identical, and both were the same color as #23. #27 is oiled.
27_23_BATACLEs-1.jpg
 
Wow! :eek: You guys are fast....thanks very much for the quick responses. It's a big help.

Jaxx - Are those snakeskin handles on your BATAC LEs?
 
before oiling- just any other garden variety canvas micarta with muted tans & grays...

after mineral oil application you can really see why it is termed "Tigerhide..."

REALLY DRAMATIC DIFFERENCE :D
 
Mineral Oil (Food Grade) is what to use. Jaxx pics are excellent at really showing how it brings out the individual color bands of the micarta.:cool:
 
As Jaxx said, wash well first and let it dry. I would think about linseed oil, or even Tru-oil for a permanent solution...
 
Thanks again to everyone for the great advice!!

Now I just have to find that dang camera. :grumpy:
 
Years ago, I used gun stock finish (mostly boiled linseed oil) to permanently "shine" a set of handles on a Tiger Warden. Took about 5 coats over at least as many days and then a full week to air-dry to get it done. No loss of grip, nice sheen, darker than heck.

BUT. . . . once you do it, you are done. No going back.
 
Nothing looks better than hand worn tigerhide. The oils in your hands will do magic to the handles.

Garth
 
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