Wood Handle finish

[vapor]

Hi,

I'm new to this and probably put it in the wrong forum, so let me try again. I am working on my first kit, DDR3. I've got it going pretty well, but need some advice on finishing the wood handles. I am using Maca wood. I've got it almost filed/sanded to the right fit and shape.

What is the best way to finish this wood; to get a nice, fine finish........sandpaper, steel wool, and what type of oil or wax is best?

Also, is it advisable to epoxy the handles onto the knife? I'm a little concerned that the 3 tiny screws, even if using loctite, will not really hold tightly with useage.

I am living in Hong Kong where it's pretty hot and humid most of the year, but one spends most of the time in an airconditioned environment. It's not the best environment to keep wood stable, and I intend on carrying my knife with me most of the time.

I would appreciate any advice you may offer.

Regards,
SL

[EdStreet]

maca has some nice figure so you may want to try sanding sealer and/or permelyn.

Ed

[whv]

welcome, sl
.
given your environment, i would consider sanding the outsides through grits to at least 600, then finishing inside & out with thin ca (cyanoacrylic = super glue) - should be available at any hobby shop that deals with model airplanes, etc.
.
as to attachment, use some removable thread lock compound on the screws (eg. locktite brand) rather than epoxy on the slabs so that you can disassemble the knife when it needs adjustment.