How do I?

[SFC ADP]

Ok, so my 1st experiment tearing aprat a pocket knife, and cleaning it up.
This was an old Imperial Knife that had some bad celluloid handles. I have been in the process of cleaning it up, and will do some re-shaping on the blade. It originally had 2 blades, but one was missing, and the bolster pins were bend inwards, (may have been run over)
So I have pulled it all apart, the handle pins are still in place.
So what or how do I re-handle the knife, I have a friend that may have some antler that I will try to cut and shape, I am guessing I drill holes once shaped and maybe tap the pins to mushroom?
And what can I use, or where do I buy new pins for the Bolsters and spring?
I am turning it into a single blade knife, and just messing around at this point, and it has been a learning process!
So any walk throughs or tips will be appreciated!

[Mossdancer]

Hi sfc adp;

If you will check a post of mine to agteacher2 on gen knife discussion It's on page 4. He did a really good explaination of blade replacement.
W.B.

[SFC ADP]

Thanks for the info W.B.
So It looks like I can get the blade, and back spring back on. I will have to order that Nickle stock so I can give that a try then.
Still need some education on how to get the scales on once I make them. I am still looking for some antler around here to experiment with, of course I could just go with wood as well if all else fails.

[Mossdancer]

Hey;
Send me your snail mail and I will send you somr antler.
Maybe Jeff will see this and weigh in on handles. Especially stabilization.
Use my Email or PM.
[email protected]
Thanks.
W.B.
PS Do you have a band saw and all that stuff. Its harder than all get out to cut by hand. What length do you need??

[agteacher2]

Hi Folks,

I will be glad to try to answer any questions you may have on handles. It could be a long winded explaination. If you have a specific question post it and I'll try to answer. If you just want general info send me an email and I'll give you my phone #.

Jeff

[SFC ADP]

Ok Agteacher school me up here!
I have the Nickle/Silver Stock on order now to assemble the knife back together.
Mossdancer is kind enough to send me some antler.
So once I get the Antler cut and shaped down to size,
Do I just drill holes for the brass pins on the liners, place the scales on and Tap them down some?
And I think I have read some use a type of epoxy to hold scales on as well. What do you resommend on placing scales back on??

Thanks for your input!

[agteacher2]

Well SFC ADP,

I guess I kinda cheat. I always use epoxy. I like the Devcon brand the best. I like to get my handles dry fit and then drill thru the the liner and the antler to make sure all the holes are lined up correctly. (Don't tell anyone but a couple of drops of super glue will help keep the scales from slipping while you drill. SHHH) Drill all holes now, two for scale pin and one for your center pivot pin. Be very careful or you will chip out the antler when the bit comes thru and believe me you will want to cry I use my drill press but I actually hold the liner and scale in my hand and feed it to the bit instead of lowering the bit to the work. DISCLAIMER - NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LOST FINGERS ALSO ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GLASSES

Another bit I have learned by mistake (literally) If you plan to flame treat the antler to get the nice color do so before you cut and shape. Also if you grind on the antler and it gets hot it WILL warp as it cools.

As far as the scale pins go I hammer the pins flat on one end for a about a 3/8 of an inch and slip them in from the inside of the liner through the handles while the epoxy is still wet. I clamp all this up and let it set really well. Then you can take a file and work the mashed end down smooth.

I hope this helps. Feel free to ask any questions you may have. I may not know the "right" way to do things but I know what works for me.

Jeff