Burl Source
Weird Wood Pusher
- Joined
- Jun 13, 2011
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I have never tried to make a wa handle before so this thread is to document the process as I fumble my way through my first attempt. The way I am constructing the handle is based on a post I saw by someone else. I don't remember where. It just stuck in my mind as it looked like a good way to make a strong handle.
If any of the handle makers have any tips or constructive criticism, please do not hesitate to post your input.
The final handle will be for the blade Mike Davis made for me.
1st I took a block of mediocre Ebony and marked approximate lines for size. I was thinking a slightly tapered handle going from 1 inch to 1&1/8 inch at the butt. I might change my mind and keep it straight though. I left it oversized for now to give something to clamp to. Plus room to correct mistakes if I get things off center.
Next I drilled a hole to hold a 5/8" dowel. My plan was to have a notched dowel to hold the tang and go down through the ferule and body of the handle. I was just a hair off center. Even though I was using a new drill bit, this ebony is hard stuff. I got lost in a cloud of smoke while drilling.
I picked a contrasting piece and drilled through it for the ferule.
Next I slid them both onto the dowel to check the fit.
Looked good so I glued and clamped the pieces. Then removed the dowel while it dries overnight.
Tomorrow I will trim to size and start shaping.
If any of the handle makers have any tips or constructive criticism, please do not hesitate to post your input.
The final handle will be for the blade Mike Davis made for me.
1st I took a block of mediocre Ebony and marked approximate lines for size. I was thinking a slightly tapered handle going from 1 inch to 1&1/8 inch at the butt. I might change my mind and keep it straight though. I left it oversized for now to give something to clamp to. Plus room to correct mistakes if I get things off center.
Next I drilled a hole to hold a 5/8" dowel. My plan was to have a notched dowel to hold the tang and go down through the ferule and body of the handle. I was just a hair off center. Even though I was using a new drill bit, this ebony is hard stuff. I got lost in a cloud of smoke while drilling.
I picked a contrasting piece and drilled through it for the ferule.
Next I slid them both onto the dowel to check the fit.
Looked good so I glued and clamped the pieces. Then removed the dowel while it dries overnight.
Tomorrow I will trim to size and start shaping.