SCRIMSHAW and BLADE ETCHING

coinshooter · Post by **coinshooter** » Wed Jan 11, 2006 7:35 pm

Scrimshaw - my dictionary defines it as intricate CARVING, usually on bone. But most of the currently available "scrimshaw" knives aren't carved, they appear to have the design printed or painted (it is thick enough to just barely feel if you run your finger over it) on the handle. I have a Schrade that got past their quality control that apparently got stuck in the scrimshaw machine and has a triple overprint. Can anyone tell me what this scrimshaw material is, how it is applied and how long it could be expected to last if the knife is carried?
Etching - my dictionary defines it as applying a design to metal or glass thru the use of acid. But I'm seeing multi-colored blade etches and black etches that get scratched off with a buffing cloth. I'd almost say they were decals, but I can't find an edge. Any one have the answer?

agteacher2 · Post by **agteacher2** » Thu Jan 12, 2006 3:16 am

Hi Coinshooter,

I can't speak for the exact methods used by the factories, but I have blades etched and I guess I could have the handles "scrimshawed" by a laser engraver. The blades are done by applying a powder "your choice of color" in the form of a spray or a brush on slurry and as the laser passses over this product it is bonded to the blade. As for the handles it would be simple to put any image that you would like into a computer and simply engrave the handle material with that image. The coloring of the etching is accomplished with paint or ink as needed. I have had many knives done by these methods although I havent tried a traditional scrimshaw image but it could be done.

Here are some examples that I have done.

Jeff

agteacher2 · Post by **agteacher2** » Thu Jan 12, 2006 3:21 am

I almost for forgot that the blades can also be chemical etched this can be done to a degree that a wax based paint will stay in the etching as long as it's not used to harshly.

The etching on the delrin handles will fade as tha handle material wears. Also the color will fade with use.

Hope this is what you wanted to know,

Jeff

coinshooter · Post by **coinshooter** » Thu Jan 12, 2006 3:54 am

Hi Jeff
Thanks for the explanation.
Using a laser never occured to me.
Your work is quite impressive.
I wonder if a laser could cut into the handle material to do a more traditional type of scrimshaw
Nacogdoches Texas - in how many movies did John Wayne say he was from there, had been there or was on his way there?
Thanks again
Fred (coinshooter)

agteacher2 · Post by **agteacher2** » Thu Jan 12, 2006 4:21 am

Hi again Fred,

Here is an example of some gun grips that are laser engraved. (I don't know, endorse or am I in any way associated with this site)

http://www.jmbdistribution.com/designs1.htm

If you can scan it or draw it on a computer the laser will engrave it.

Think of an ink jet printer - exactly the same mechanism except instead of a spray of ink they fire a tiny laser beam.

Jeff

coinshooter · Post by **coinshooter** » Thu Jan 12, 2006 8:14 pm

Hi Jeff
The pistol grip work is really something. Thanks again
Fred