A happy mishap

[Redmeadow Knives]

I was making a Cowbell for a good friend and while digging around for a unique handle material I came across some vintage micarta scales (which I'm pretty sure came in a care package from one of the Clan here).

Apparently this stuff is extremely heat sensitive as you can see by the discoloration focusing around the pins. This got no more heat than usual, I always pay close attention when grinding the pins down after the scales are attached to avoid over heating them. The other half dozen I did at the same had no effect but are from modern micarta.

At first I was really disappointed but after finishing it out, I really like it and think it might be one of the most unique knives I've ever made.

Anyways, an interesting effect that I thought you guys might want to see. Pics really don't do it justice.

What say you? Ghastly abomination or nice effect? Personally I want to keep it for myself but am glad it will be going to a good home (J.S. if you're watching this one's for you brother).

 

[jlauffer]

Looks great to me John. Since there are other spots of discoloration, the areas around the pins fit right in and add to the character.

 

[James River]

I think it looks great. Gives it that unique "one of a kind" micarta vibe. I'd say you could call it toffee micarta?

 

[Pàdruig]

I like it. Anything that imparts further character into micarta is a win, in my opinion.

 

[tinfoil hat timmy]

of the original future owner doesnt want it you can send it to me.

I think it looks great. Imperfections are part of the charm.

My wife tells me that I'm VERY charming.

 

[jlauffer]

View attachment 1971215

 

[beeinak]

I think it looks great. Reminds me of Dijon mustard (which I like) with the contrast. It has character and an ‘heirloom’ look to it- very nice looking knife. Brighter colors with some muting are great imho.

 

[Rupestris]

Lovin’ it. It reminds me of honeycomb.

 

[jlauffer]

Lovin’ it. It reminds me of honeycomb.

Nailed it!

 

[Redmeadow Knives]

Lovin’ it. It reminds me of honeycomb.

That's what I see too Chris, it's really got a neat look to it in person. Gonna keep my eye out for more of it but man they want a pretty penny for it anymore.

 

[Redmeadow Knives]

of the original future owner doesnt want it you can send it to me.

I think it looks great. Imperfections are part of the charm.

My wife tells me that I'm VERY charming.

If he doesn't want it you'll have to fight me for it, pistols at dawn!!



Aaaand of course now I have to post a great scene from my favorite movie since dueling always reminds me of this....

"I told you I'd do it, I told you but you wouldn't believe me, Damn your soul!"

(Burl Ives is Chuck Connors Dad for context, if you all haven't seen "The Big Country" we can't be friends )

 

[Rupestris]

Ren and Stimpy even paraphrased it in the Happy Happy Joy Joy song.

 

[Redmeadow Knives]

Ren and Stimpy even paraphrased it in the Happy Happy Joy Joy song.

Ha, that's awesome!

 

[Texoma]

vintage micarta looks good and will darken nice with use

 

[cbach8tw]

Very cool.

 

[Horsewright]

Built in rusticity! Good deal.

 

[SpyderPhreak]

Looks pretty awesome by my eye!

 

[RayseM]

The variations are enhancements.

 

[Comprehensivist]

I like the way that turned out. One of a kind character that defines a handsome handmade knife. Old micarta is like wood in the way that you don’t discover it’s true character until the shaping and sanding is done. I am sure your good friend will cherish this special gift.

Phil