"Simple Green" + Micarta = Clean...& SHSH Screw Question.

tuica

tuica

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Greetings, Just wanted to pass along that I have had good luck in cleaning micarta handles on older Busses with this. I squirt some on, let it set for 1-2 minutes, scrub with a toothbrush, then wipe off. Really spiffs up those grungy handles, and the Simple Green's cleaning power really adds some punch to the next tooth brushing session!

Also. Wondering about the handle screws on an SHSH2. The screws are a bit beat, and wondering how easy they are to remove, then replace. Would not attempt, however, if this would seriously compromise the "historic integrity" of this fine knife - but it is a "user." Do realize that I can probably send it in and have the factory accomplish this, but I enjoy making those older "sow's ears" into finer looking (and functioning), implements.

Thanks in advance for your educated comments. I have learned volumes of info on this forum, primarily about Bussekins.

Cheers
 
Slotted bolts?

Dont mess with them, should be pretty predestine underneath. I believe those old scales were glued on as well. Can some one chime in about that.

Thanks for the tip, I love simple green. Im pretty much addicted to windex at this point but I might give the simple green a go one day.
 
One thing to add on the slotted bolt situation. The rear corner of the left side handle is bending away from the metal, enough that I can see daylight underneath. That got me interested in the bolt's replacement. Did not consider the glue factor, so thanks for the tip!

A question often times wondered a million times in life - mess with it, or leave it be?! My sense is to leave it alone. But also wondering from an intellectual standpoint.

Cheers.
 
I like cleaning grungy micarta with a brass brush or even a steel wire brush to add some grippiness.
With dish detergent.
I would inject some two part epoxy behind that scale and put it in a vise, and polish the slotted bolts with the brass brush, or a scotch barite pad. Just my $.02
 
Thanks voracious 1. May give that epoxy a try at some point. The handle is not that far off the metal quite yet. Just surprised me a bit, as none of older Busses have this condition. But none of them are as old as this Vintage model. Really love the feel, and handling characteristics of the SHSH2. Cheers
 
If you decide to remove the slotted screws, remember they are Red Locktite Chicago Screws, so you will either need to apply heat, or drill out to remove.

To apply heat you lay the tip of a solder gun against both sides of the Chicago Screw at the same time and carefully apply torque. (if you mess it up, you can still drill to remove)

If you do get the scales off, be sure to take pictures of any numbers/letters/marks that are under the scales or on the scales.
 
Thanks papathud. Will leave as is for now. The first rule - do no more damage. But will save your technique. Believe this was your SHSH2, that I purchased through "dd". OK for my first foray into vintage Busses. And makes me want more.Cheers
 
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tuica said:
... A question often times wondered a million times in life - mess with it, or leave it be?! My sense is to leave it alone. ...
Click to expand...
I agree. If the knife has not been modified and even though it is a user, to maintain the collector's value I would leave the screws as-is, and I would not use anything more abrasive than a toothbrush on the micarta grips. I bought a well-used SHSH2 years ago and paid more than the original price, and I could sell it now for more than I paid for it. The SHSH2 is one of my all-time favorite Busse knives. Enjoy your classic Steel Heart!

Andre, thank you for your reply about the Locktite!

Gene
 
Thanks, Gene. I classified it as a user, but it will be used carefully, if at all. I do have plenty of knives to fill that role. Cheers, Steve.
 
Steve,

If you want to use the SHSH2, I would do it because it will likely not lower the value of it if the blade finish already has any significant wear. Years ago I also bought a well-used SHBM, an early 1/300 model with smooth grips - the blade finish was scuffed quite a bit but it was in otherwise good shape. I used it a lot and put more wear on the finish, and the price has still gone up over the period of several years. So enjoy your Steel Heart, either as a user or a collectable.

Gene
 
Thanks again, Gene. Like many here, I have way more blades than I "need." I used to hike and camp extensively, and may again. But may not. I like collecting many different things, including Busse knives, because - who can explain?��
 
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