On Sheldon's forum I posted this old model-1, which has become the favorite of my limited accumulation of Randalls. The knife generated an interesting discussion due to its pinned handle, late-50s shape, and early 60s sheath.
When I received it, the handle was considerably worse for the wear than pictured ... but was nice and tight, just cracked
(by the way .... I speculate that air shipment subjected the knife to low pressure and helped open the cracks a little... something to keep in mind.) I loved the knife though and didn't even think of returning it. Because....
...Here in New Orleans, I have a friend, Sal Giardina, who is nationally/internationaly known as one of the best at repairing stringed instruments, using nothing but traditional techniques. He works on fabulous violins, basses, including many well known musician?s favorite guitars.
See:
http://www.salvadorgiardina.com/
He laughed at the handle cracking, said it was nothing. He took my knife, a little epoxy, a little ebony dust? voila. He asked if I wanted it restored to pristene condition... I opted for basic so as not to have an anomolous feature. He said he can do the same to ivory, bone etc., though it requires a more extensive effort.
I thought I would share that just because a handle is cracked, or even badly damaged, there are experts out there that can make it right. You all might consider this option ? using a specialist from that industry to repair wood handles (or call Sal), especially on valuable and/or rare items. He isn't cheap, but worth every penny.
(Note: The "after" pictures were taken immediately after he returned the knife. Some of the epoxy is still visible, but a little razor scraping removed all trace.)
