Wood knife scale finishing

[jasperhalo]

I decided to attempt re-handling one of my knifes for the first time with some pre-cut wood scales. I wanted to know if after its all done and sanded, do i need to put anything on the wood to keep it protected or anything or will it be ok to just leave it as is. I plan on actually using the knife a lot so I wanted to make sure it doesnt fall apart on me after all the hard work. Thanks

 

[kidwholaughs]

For new knives I put on some mineral oil.

You may want to stain the wood first to get the best pattern. Then use some something to lock the color in.

 

[hunterfisher808]

If its going to be a user and the wood was not stabilized I would seal it with some kind of finish, Tung oil, or synthetic. Humidity changes or getting wet (water or animal blood) will soak in and swell and/or stain it. I was told that the only wood that does not need to be stabilized is desert ironwood as the wood is so dense that it is pretty much stabilized by mother nature...IMHO