Scale question

[ttank0789]

I cut some black walnut into scales today. They aren't attached to the knife yet but I realized I have have screwed them up. I just realized that the grain of the wood isn't running the length of the handle, but rather the width of the handle (perpendicular to the blade). Will this compromise the strength of the handle or is it just a matter of how it looks? Either way I may make new scales because I think I will like the look better if the grain runs parallel to the blade.

 

[SteelSlaver]

I don't think you "screwed them up". Firmly attached to a full tank the steel will keep them from flexing. Plus Black walnut is pretty strong no matter how you cut it. Lots of burl wood has grain running every which way and does fine if they are dense enough to resist deformation. Unless there is a flaw in the wood they would be fine.

 

[fast14riot]

Other than possibly being less attractive, black walnut should have to issues. I have made a knife with end grain scales and it has held up just fine for over two years now. I used Myrtle wood on mine. Just be careful to avoid small, fine corners in the scale shape near the edge of th tang, they may break and chip off.


-Xander

 

[Horsewright]

I have done this on purpose with oak and ironwood and it has come out very nice. No durability problems. Actually have an order right now where the customer requested it.

 

[ttank0789]

Does any one have pictures of a knife that has a handle with a horizontal grain?

 

[Horsewright]

ttank. Email me and I'll dig some up for ya.

 

[fast14riot]

Here is mine, not the best pics, but none the less still shows what yours asking about.

-Xander