Now you've done it!!!

[Slasher]

Thanks fellas... after seeing all the fine stuff you folks are doing, I went ahead and ordered a helle viedemann blade and some shedua and bocote...

With limited tools... whats the best way to shape a handle? Rasp and file or dremel tool? I wish I had access to a band saw to make some groovy curves, but tablesaw and chopsaw are what I have to work with... so...

I am sure this will be another fine mess I will be getting myself into...

[Leftieshot]

You might be able to use a coping saw for you groovy curves.  Dremel and some sanding drums will shape your handle but you will probably use several before you are done.  I don't like a rasp because they seem to tear or rip the wood, but files work well.

[skullworks]

Files and a dremel should work fine! You should be able to get some nice curves if you take your time. I use a file made for doing rifle bedding that I got from Brownells. Remember, you can take wood off but it's hard to put back! LOL!

http://www.brownells.com/aspx/ns/store/ProductDetail.aspx?p=6764&title=HALF-ROUND%20VULCANITE%20FILE

[kbaknife]

After basic 2 dimensional flat profile, these are shaped ENTIRELY by files:
 






It's difficult to make mistakes with files, altough it can be done!

[kbaknife]

I couldn't get uin there to edit that post, so I'll add that these knives are all HARD!! maple, mallee root, desert ironwood and african blackwood.
Take your time, keep your file clean and the radio on.
The fit and comfort of the handle is one of the most important aspects of the knife. You have almost limitless control of the shaping process when using files.
Do a little searching and you can find the files that suit your needs.
I use a cabinet maker's rasp for the initial material removal and it takes stuff off almost TOO fast!

[skullworks]

Dang Karl! Just gotta show off, huh? LOL! Beautiful work as always! I bet it takes some patience!!!

[Slasher]

Originally posted by kbaknife:

Take your time, keep your file clean and the radio on.
The fit and comfort of the handle is one of the most important aspects of the knife. You have almost limitless control of the shaping process when using files.
Do a little searching and you can find the files that suit your needs.
I use a cabinet maker's rasp for the initial material removal and it takes stuff off almost TOO fast!

I fknew I could probably do better with those as I tend to get a lil aggresive with power tools....  

Those are some sure enough puty knives... I hope mine will look half as good... as I just am looking to have a GOOD skinning knife... that holds a decent edge and since I was pricing and looking for a gut hook blade, I figured why not go for it...

[OconeeDan]

slasher, where are you located in GA?
Dan

[Slasher]

Not too far from you... I am in Coweta County..(newnan)

[OconeeDan]

About a 2 hr drive.  Maybe one day we'll hook up.
Dan