Thread: Crosscut Burl

Is a crosscut burl or any other wood crosscut, strong enough to use for scales? Does stabilizing make a difference?

My guess would be - in most cases, no - stabilizing would definitely help, so would backing with thin brass or titanium. That said, I've never actually tried it - this is just based on my experience with thin wood. If you experiment with it, let us know how it comes out.

I would have to agree with Skipnord as there isn't much structural integrity to any wood that is crosscut. You could try to stabalize it with a epoxy or CA/superglue and it may or may not work with your particular pieces of wood. I use it with knives...but they are full tang knives. All you can do is try and see.

Masecraft Supply and I am sure others have .030 G10 in many colors it really works well for backing as it flexes more than the wood, always keep in mind that scales done properly will create a reverse curve, so the backing always wants to pop off... ie: Spacer vs Wedge so using a wedge and creating the actual curve you want to have a pretty flexible material on the inside

I have broken so many pieces of burl making scales I don't even want to think about it, but dang they are beautiful when you get them right

Originally Posted by gssixgun

Masecraft Supply and I am sure others have .030 G10 in many colors it really works well for backing as it flexes more than the wood, always keep in mind that scales done properly will create a reverse curve, so the backing always wants to pop off... ie: Spacer vs Wedge so using a wedge and creating the actual curve you want to have a pretty flexible material on the inside

I have broken so many pieces of burl making scales I don't even want to think about it, but dang they are beautiful when you get them right

I suppose a hardwood veneer might work too. In either case what would you use to bond them?

I use Epoxy and I really try and create what are called Mechanical bonds/locks

Jamie aka CelticCrusaders does a ton of these, you might want to touch base with him too check out some of his scales

Just like Glen said .... burl wood is fragile enough as it is. Crosscutting it is not a good
idea. Even using a liner with it is iffy. You will inevitably have to bend the scales somewhat.
The burl wood, especially if it's a thin scale, may very well break regardless if you use CA or
epoxy. I have lost many burls scales as well.