What to seal handle scales and liners with?

[JM2]

I’m getting into doing handle scales on traditional slip joints, and also on a couple fixed blades like the schrade ph1. So, what is everyone using to seal the back of the panels and the brass liner or blade?

 

[Bill DeShivs]

Nothing.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Scales are generally only screwed or pinned to the liners. While you could use epoxy, it is not normally done.

 

[JM2]

I appreciate the replies. I know scales aren’t glued down. I guess nothing is the traditional thing.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Maybe it is the word "seal" that has us confused. Since you have not filled out your profile to let us know where you love, it also could be a language issue. Sealed may mean one thing in some country but have a different meaning in the USA.
Can you explain what type of sealing you are referring to.

The liner and blade are metal and are not sealed. The blade is sometimes etched to get a desired darkness.
The scales are traditionally a hardwood that is stable, or a natural product like bone, antler, or ivory. These don't usually get sealed ether.

 

[JM2]

I’m here in Kentucky. I’m not sure how to fill out my profile. I did try to figure it out. I’d be glad for some help or a link to the how to.

Seal as in, let’s say I have oak scales for a handle, put several coats of varnish or other finish on the back side before attaching to the liners. So that, once they are shaped and then finished on the face sides, they have finish on both the back and front, sealing that panel from moisture.

I am a carpenter by trade which makes me think of scales from a different angle. I see a porous material that will absorb and hold moisture, thus swelling or corroding the liner below the panel.

Is my thinking off? Is it just not an issue?

PS,I did figure out the profile thing.

 

[Hengelo_77]

I get the point of having finish on both sides.
If you epoxy the scales to the liners you basicaly seal the underside of the scales.
On folding knives mostly natural woods that don't need finish or stabilised woods are used.