Problems with Texas Knives Hi Tech Liner Material?

Mudbug007

Mudbug007

Joined
Nov 29, 2010
Messages
1,320
When I first started making knives I bought some of the Hi Tech liner material from Texas Knife. It looks like plastic. Since the vulcanized material was getting a bad rap, I decided to try it. I bought it and forgot about it because I started using G10. The first time I used it was months after I bought it. While cutting the the scales, it chipped badly, even coming off the scales. I figured it was old material and threw it away.

Fast forward to a week ago and I ordered more from TK because I needed liner material and I needed it the day before. Again, while cutting it out with my Portaband on slow, it chipped out badly and part of it came off the scales. I tried grinding the material from around the scales instead of cutting it and it I had the same results. This stuff is super brittle!

Even tried my coping saw and it still chipped!

How do you cut this so that it doesn't chip off the sclaes????!!!
 
I tried some too with the same results. I quit using it pretty quick. I cut/chipped the rest of it up and have been using it for stir sticks. Seems to cut best with scissors.
 
It is fragile but really pops some nice color when finished. You need to support both sides when cutting of finishing. I would glue it to my scales and then clamp them together,then trim with a fine tooth saw and grind flush.Install on knife and finish.

Stan
 
Thanks Stan! I'll try that before sending it back. The bright red is the reason I bought it in the first place. And Jim has an order at my door in two days is the second reason I bought it.
 
Make sure you sand off the polished finish before gluing. I use 120 grit on a surface plate to get the slick finish off and give it a little gripping texture for the epoxy.

Stan
 
Thanks Stan. I always sand the surfaces of my liners and the side of the scales to be glued. Usually in the 60 to 80 grit range.

BTW, you rock! That technique of yours worked well! I would suggest to anyone using this material to cut your scales a little large so if it does chip out around the edges, you'll still have plenty to grind without compromising the part of the liners/scales on the tang.
 
Thanks for the tip Stan. I've had the same experience and will try your method if i ever use it again.
 
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