Manzanita Scales?

[Nic.]

Question for you guys...I have access to lots of manzentia burls, and was wondering if it would be ok to use for scales. Has anyone ever tried it? If so, how'd it turn out? The burls are pretty nice wood, but I didn't know if it would be worth trying or not

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

They work well. Make sure they are fully dry. It can take a LONG time to dry. We have had three discussions on manzanita scales in the last week or so. The BF search engine is:
https://www.google.com/cse/home?cx=011197018607028182644:qfobr3dlcra

 

[Nic.]

Ok, thanks Stacy! That helps a lot! These burls have been drying for 10-15 years, I hope that's long enough.

 

[jdm61]

Is this the stuff that we also call madrone burl or one of the other species or genus?

 

[Nic.]

No, not madrone, but the manzentia is related to it...it's called green leaf manzenita

 

[A C Richards]

Manzanita burl can be beautiful if you can get it to dry without cracking. I did a few way back in the day and only got one decent handle. Also be aware they have a habit of sucking rocks into the middle of the burl. Destroyed a few blades this way.

 

[Nic.]

Ok, I have a ton of them so hopefully I can make a couple scales without cracks. Sucking in rocks, that's really odd!! I'll try not to kill blades then. Thank you for the advice!!

 

[John A. Larsen]

I got a boot dagger from Scott Roush back in 2011 with a Manzanita and no problems so far. He might be able to give you tips on using it. John