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Need help with Northwoods mamoth irvory

M

machineage

Joined
Nov 10, 2012
Messages
687
Hello guys. I Have a Northwoods barlow with beautiful mammoth ivory scales. The mammoth has been polished to a hi-luster that I don't really care for.I was told there is no clearcoat over them. I've seen other similar knives where the ivory has a rougher more natural look that I really like. My question; is there any way to get the finish back to a more rustic look without damaging the scales. Thanks in advance for any help. RP
 
I'm thinking the natural texture has been buffed off in order to get the nice polish? Treat the ivory like a fine wood - don't get it wet with water or too hot if using machined abrasives. I would start with a fine sandpaper like 600 grit and take light short strokes mostly in the same direction. Then go rougher from there, you just want to avoid putting in a deep long scratch. If you really want to try to recreate a rougher texture, a Dremel tool would be useful. If the ivory has some nice colors in it now, you want to be careful as these usually don't go very deep. Hope this is what you are looking for.
 
I'm wondering if the 'rougher' look mentioned is in reference to the 'bark' ivory seen on some knives, as compared to the interior ivory usually found on the polished examples? If so, it may not be possible to duplicate just by refinishing.

It'd be helpful to see a pic of the knife mentioned, as well as an example pic of the desired result.


David
 
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Thanks guys for the response. I don't believe it is interior as it has some deeper textures and imperfections. That is why I thought I could get a duller more natural look. If it has no finish applied, then sanding would probably be the was to go. Thanks. RP
 
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