Making custom scales ?

StagLefty · Jun 10, 2010

I did a search but I don't think I have the skills needed for searching ! I'd like to try making some custom micarta handles. I've found the source to buy the blanks but I'm wondering if there are special tools and skills needed ? I don't want to waste the money on materials if I don't have what's needed. Feedback or links would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Dizwolf · Jun 10, 2010

I've heard respirators are highly recommended for working with the dust.

actionshooter38 · Jun 10, 2010

Power tools make a job faster and easier...all can be done with basic hand tools.

Minnesota · Jun 10, 2010

Maybe a dremel? Or a sander? For shaping the handles. Harbour Freight has pretty inexpensive tools I beileve. I'd go on the knifemakers forums too, they probably have a bunch of info on this stuff.

MikeyJ · Jun 10, 2010

Dizwolf said:
I've heard respirators are highly recommended for working with the dust.

+1...I've read that the dust is highly toxic. Custom scales would look sweet though...

StagLefty · Jun 10, 2010

Thanks folks-I'm looking at some red/black micarta for my new Junglas and think it would look great. Since I lost my job I'm in my home shop looking for some fun stuff to do once in awhile. I have a bandsaw and dremel to cut and shape, I just wasn't sure about specialty tools. Thanks for the respirator info-wasn't aware I'd need those.

gundude73 · Jun 10, 2010

you would probably need a drill press and special drill bits, depending on what size screw you use. you might wanna check out knifekits.com for all the things you will need.

willworship · Jun 10, 2010

StagLefty said:
Thanks folks-I'm looking at some red/black micarta for my new Junglas and think it would look great. Since I lost my job I'm in my home shop looking for some fun stuff to do once in awhile. I have a bandsaw and dremel to cut and shape, I just wasn't sure about specialty tools. Thanks for the respirator info-wasn't aware I'd need those.

Micarta dust is apparently highly toxic, because of the epoxy used to make it, if I were to guess. I suppose it's wise to use a respirator with anything that creates a ton of fine dust when you're working with it, because whether you see it or not, it will get in your lungs.

StagLefty · Jun 11, 2010

WOW had no idea about this dust problem-I may have to nix this idea-I already have to deal with COPD and don't need any further complications-Thanks for the heads up folks.