My Newest

This is my first hidden tang knife, first guard, and first time using multiple handle materials. I’m overall very pleased except for the one glaring mistake. I had trouble reaming out the hole with my saws all blade that was fashioned into a broach. Either the hole was bigger that I thought or I lost track of its location after the lines got ground away. I spent a good bit of time on hand sanding the finish. This is a free piece of walnut that Gene added to order of walnut I bought from him. Finish is true oil and birch wood Casey stock conditioner. Rubbed it down with Ren wax at the finish.

I am by no means in a position to impart you with knowledge in the realm of knife making. I am a beginner in the highest degree. However, I have been a craftsman in other pursuits for a couple decades. From that perspective, and in my own vain, I would grind the handle off and start again, no offense intended, or implied. The reason I say that, is while you may feel some regret for wasted materials and time, you will regret more the opportunity to immediately go back and learn from the oops, while its fresh on your mind. In the long run, from my eyes, that's more valuable to a craftsman than time or materials.
All that said the blade is outstanding and the guard and spacers are very nicely done. I am slowly becoming a hidden tang, with a single pin fan. I like the look and I like the feel. Most of all I like the opportunity to show off more of a truly nice piece of wood.
Later,
Kev

Well, the handle is gone and I have another handle about ready to glue up. Instead of gluing it up, I decided to set it down and revisit it tomorrow with fresh eyes. I want to make sure everything is flat, clean, right and tight.

Thanks for the advice.

I put a new handle on it. I am glad I did so because I am much happier with this version. Thanks for the advise! Here it is now.

Very nice upgrade.

Thank you!

Yes, a very nice second effort on that handle. Don't be too upset with the first try. You're hardly the first knife maker to let the tang hole get away from him (or her)

Doug