Which Wax/Oil for Micarta Scales?

[mountainranger]

Just got Black Matte Linen Micarta scales for my Bark River Necker 2 knife. This is the first time I ever ordered this type of Micarta, and wow it is light - practically tan in color. Which type of wax/oil do you recommend adding to let the color come through more, while not making the grip too slick?

 

[Zuchus]

I've had good luck with mineral oil, but just remember that a little goes a long way. Just put a couple of drops on and rub it all over. If you don't over do it, it will darken it nicely and evenly without making it feel greasy.

 

[JNewell]

Almost any oil will lighten up sooner or later. If you wax it, as I saw someone here do recently, you'll lose some or all of the ability of micarta to absorb water and get "grippier" when damp.

 

[mountainranger]

Would 3 in 1 Oil be OK, or do you recommend something else? It contains Citronella if I remember correctly, which gives it that sharp odor. I just happen to have some around.

 

[Bill1170]

Any lubricating oil is going to wear off easily and lubricate the handle (make it slippery) while it stays. I recommend you use a coat of a drying oil like Watco, Deftoil, or Liberon. This will darken the micarta and then stay around for a good long time. It will not be slippery once it dries. I did this to a micarta handle I made for a Spyderco Mule. Because the oil is thin, the texture of the canvas remains.