I have some cedar I found on an island the other day when our boat wouldn't crank. It is still heavy even though it has been weathered by the ocean for a while. The pieces are from where the root meets the tree, so the material has allot of character. I was thinking it would look good with the ebony I have on a handle. Iv'e never used it as a handle material, but I'm thinking I might give it a try. What do yall think about using cedar as a handle material? <img src=' http://www.americanbladesmith.com/ipboard/public/style_emoticons//smile.gi f' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':)' />
Jason,
There are no rules when it comes to natural handle material. I usually avoid woods like cedar because of it's lack of hardness but if you have some root stock which is harder than normal then don't be scared to give it a try.
A good "rule of thumb" to remember is that the cost of the materials in a knife is going to be less than the value of your labor and it is usually a good idea to use the best materials that you can.
Gary
Thanks Gary. <img src=' http://www.americanbladesmith.com/ipboard/public/style_emoticons//smile.gi f' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':)' /> Yeah I know it's a softer wood in general, I just figured if I stabilized it with resin it would be a little harder. I have never used it before and was sort of wondering if anyone on this forum had, and what their experiences might have been. I appreciate your thoughts. <img src=' http://www.americanbladesmith.com/ipboard/public/style_emoticons//smile.gi f' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':)' />
I have stabilized spalted apsen that was quite soft,(dry rotted?) and it hardened up quite well. Cedar should be fine if you stabilize, just make sure it's bone dry, and you get good penetration.
