Measure twice, cut once.....

[VaughnT]

I'm new to the forum, but not new to working with my hands. Seems like I make the same greenhorn mistake entirely too often, though.

I finally got all the handle material in the mail (green canvas micarta and black/green linen micarta) and was very excited to start. I had finally settled on a handle design that seemed good for the blade shape, though I'm not satisfied with the blade shape. Hate having to work around someone else's design, but that's the breaks with a re-do.

Anyhow, because the tang wasn't long enough to go the full length, I thought to add a spacer behind it (the b/g micarta) so I would have a hand-sized handle. In theory and practice, this looks good.

Finally got everything glued up and start working it on the disc sander when I see this little tidbit.

See that little gap at the pommel area? The handle shape was drawn on the green slabs and looks beautiful. The spacer slab..... I have no idea how I did that, but it's not long enough to make the handle work. The overall length is still good, but the lanyard tube is danger-close to the edge and I'm not sure how to pull the whole thing off.

Here's how it stands now.

Measure twice, cut once. It's not just for carpentry, folks!

 

[thompsonblades]

The lanyard tube is a little close to the edge, but I don't think it will be a problem. So long as it goes through either the space or the tang, it should hold.

 

[adammichael]

Come up with a believable reason why you "purposely" made it that way and then feature it.
It will be fine.

 

[VaughnT]

Thanks for the support, gents. I'll be sure to come up with a very sound "reason" for the tube's placement. Promise.

Aggravating goof on my part. I guess I'll wait til the second knife to apply for one of those Master Bladesmith/Knifemaker diplomas.

 

[Tait]

i think you've started down the path of qualifying for the degree...

Does that mean if I've made worse mistakes, I'm further along in my education?