Damascus and dyed camel bone

[skullworks]

This is one I just finished for a customer. One of those knives that fights you all the way! LOL! The bone chipped a bit when drilled(anyone know how to avoid this?) and I had to fix it with some chips and epoxy. Turned out pretty good despite that. 1095 and 15N20 nickel carbon damascus. Dyed and stabilized camel bone with mosaic pins. Blade is 4" and OAL is 9-1/4". Enjoy!

[Ray Hammond]

How I did it, Skullie, to avoid chipping, was to place the bone on a block of wood (assuming it was flat scale.

If it was rounded, like walrus or antler, then I put it in my vise seated in a sliver of PVC I cut on my bandsaw to mimic the curve, and let that act as a backer of sorts to avoid the drill "busting" through the back side.

I also think the type of bit you use can have an effect on how it works, as well.

[tippit]

Another way is to drill the hole smaller than needed.  Your enlarging drill bits will be less likely to chip through the original hole.  Plus some sort of solid backing...tippit

[4runr]

That's a beauty right there.

[drewsbow]

that is awesome      

[OconeeDan]

That looks great!

Ray is correct, use wood as a backer, for starters.

Something for all to remember:
When drilling something important, always use a new or very sharp bit.  

Drill Doctor...I have the cheapest model at about 50 bucks.  It will pay for itself over time and it is one of those gimmicks that really works.
Dan

[Al Kidner]

Mate, again... well done.


ak.

[theunluckyhunter]

ok set the scale in your vise or on your table like you would normally do, FLIP IT OVER and then drill like normal.

if it chips out of the backside then who cares right? all it will do is help your epoxy

[Chris Surtees]

Great looking knife!