Rattlesnake skin advice please.

[irbailey]

I've recently been given a rattlesnake skin, and plan to use it as an inlay for a 10" bowie sheath.
I've never used it before (Rattlers not being too common over here!) and wondered if anybody has any tips to share before I start?
Any advice gratefully accepted!

Cheers, Ian

 

[DC KNIVES]

Ian, one of my favorite skins,and I have done many.One of the things about rattlesnakes versus some other species is the large scales.There are two schools of thought on whether to remove the scales or not.I prefer the scales on,as I like the texture, but it does require an extra step.If your keeping the scales, you will need to liberally apply several coats of Fiebing's Leather Sheen, to protect them.Otherwise pick off the scales and use a single coat.Other than that inlay as you would any other hide.Dave

http://dcknivesandleather.blademakers.com/

 

[HolyRoller]

Is it a tanned hide? Or a shed?

 

[sheathmaker]

I use only tanned skins and I descale mine prior to inlay, because I am afraid (not by experience) that they may start to sluff off a year or two later and I would not know it, but have a less than happy customer because of it. As Dave said, other than the required number of coats of finish it's the same as it would be on a non inlayed sheath.

Oh, make sure the rattler is dead prior to attempting an inlay.

Paul

 

[irbailey]

Is it a tanned hide? Or a shed?

Err, I'm not sure really. Although the shed is where I'll be doing the work (Yes, I am that dumb!)
I'm assuming the skin is tanned. It has the rattle still attached and the inside of it looks a bit like oilskin/waxed cotton. When it's rolled up it makes a sound like it may well be brittle, but it can be flexed with no problems.
I hope you know what I mean!

I've just checked for a pulse and can confirm it's most definitely dead, so no problems in that respect:thumbup:

Ian