Rehandling an FFBM

theonew

theonew

Joined
May 16, 2006
Messages
2,724
Well I recently had some edge work done on my FFBM and this last weekend got it out for a good beating. In a word - awesome!!! Pics and details in this thread if you're interested.

The only problem I'm having is that the mag slabs on this one are just too big for my hands. My hands are on the larger side but this one seems built for a Paul Bunyan type :eek: Could I send this in to Busse and pay for a rehandle job? Has anyone done this? What have others here done in this situation? I don't mind putting a few bucks into it seeing how it will easily last for my lifetime and then some :cool:

Thanks in advance for any advice you might have.
 
When I got my FFBM it had factory fresh mags on it and they just didn't suit my hand. I tried to get used to it and even wore gloves. Nothing helped, then I thought i've got nothing to lose by sanding the slabs. I'm keeping the knife so why not.

So after an afternoon of sanding, checking the feel, some more sanding, some more checking the feel and on and on I eventually got the fit just right for me. Somewhere between mags and standard. Smooth in some areas and I put some grooves in with some 600 grit paper folded around a ruler.

You've nothing to lose by having a go yourself and the 'tools' only cost a couple of bucks (several sheets of abrasive). If you get it right you have learned a skill, saved money and got a perfect fit handle. If you get it wrong then send it to the shop for a new handle.
 
For a user like this one, I wouldn't send it back to the shop...with a good bastard file and some sandpaper, you can shape the handle yourself until the handle is comfy. Not only you will save money, but this FFBM will be even more YOUR FFBM!
 
RoyalM said:
When I got my FFBM it had factory fresh mags on it and they just didn't suit my hand. I tried to get used to it and even wore gloves. Nothing helped, then I thought i've got nothing to lose by sanding the slabs. I'm keeping the knife so why not.

So after an afternoon of sanding, checking the feel, some more sanding, some more checking the feel and on and on I eventually got the fit just right for me. Somewhere between mags and standard. Smooth in some areas and I put some grooves in with some 600 grit paper folded around a ruler.

You've nothing to lose by having a go yourself and the 'tools' only cost a couple of bucks (several sheets of abrasive). If you get it right you have learned a skill, saved money and got a perfect fit handle. If you get it wrong then send it to the shop for a new handle.
Click to expand...

Save some time - actually lots of time - and efforts by starting with a coarse file or even a rasp. Then, when you feel the shape is perfect, get rid of the file grooves with a finer file and/or sandpaper.
 
I bought one that had been sanded by its previous owner. I have to say, they did a good job. Very comfortable in my hand. If your gonna keep it, I would just sand them down.

That is a very nice edge that was put on it. :thumbup:
 
Thanks, excellent advice on the do-it-yourself plan :thumbup: Nothing really to lose since it can always be rehandled.

Do you guys use a mask when sanding Micarta or G10?
 
If you don't feel comfortable doing it yourself, I suggest posting your request in the knifemakers forum (they're a good knowledgeable bunch), That's what they do all day; shaping handles and steel with grinders, files and sandpaper.

Alternatively, find a knifemaker near you and drive the blade right there, meeting the knifemaker at the same time!

I'd do it myself for free, but I'm in Canada...
 
theonew said:
you guys use a mask when sanding Micarta or G10?
Click to expand...

Yes, wear a respirator if you're inside. If I do it outside - which i strongly suggest -, a normal face mask (like what they wear in Mexico those days) is plenty of protection. Clamp it on a bench outside, open a beer, and go slow :thumbup:
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top