Cattaraugus ID Please

[radiowizard]

I've had this for a few years; I can't recall where I got it. Anyway the blade is 4 3/4", overall 8 1/2". Not sure of handle material, maybe Bakelite. Dark brown with lighter brown or reddish orange swirls. Would like to know what to use to clean/preserve the handle.
radiowizard

[Mumbleypeg]

I’ve seen that material before but not sure what it’s called nor what it’s composition is. I’d try something like Armor All or similar general purpose conditioner on it. I doubt that will hurt it. RenWax would also be a good option and won’t hurt it. If it doesn’t work try something else. There appears to be some significant scratches that likely won’t come out without buffing or extremely fine grit sanding. JMO. Others may have better ideas.

Ken

[knife7knut]

I would try using some 400-600 grit wet-or-dry sandpaper with water to sand it lightly and then use some Mother's Mag Wheel Polish on it.Looks almost like gutta-percha.

[radiowizard]

I do have some crocus cloth. Would that be ok? Or is that too fine?
RW

[radiowizard]

Cleaned up the handle a bit. The pattern reminds me a bit of marbled Bakelite that I've seen on some antique radios. Pretty sure it's not Catalin though.
RW