Finishing scales

[springer82]

I'm putting set of maple scales on a damascus blade. I've always used boiled linseed oil. Do ya think a little darker stain would be in order?

 

[opaul]

Ty Adams had posted up a great post on finishing maple. With the proper finish it’s hard to beat.

 

[John Wilson]

Agree with OP. Maple done well is as beautiful as any exotic wood. If you oil it and it doesn’t darken enough to get the contrast you like, sand it again lightly to expose the fibers. A quick wipe with some leather dye or tint and a light sanding with 2000 grit will bring out that deep two-tone that maple was born for. Then oil again to seal.

 

[springer82]

Thank you Op and John. I'll take a look for Ty's thread.