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 hum## 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 cons##er sanding the outs##es through grits to at least 600, then finishing ins##e & 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.