what do you think about this for scales?

stabilized redwood burl, a bit showy, but kinda cool looking. plus it is REDwood, I'm thinking about using it for the scales on a RED head razor to give to my brother (who is also a redhead) for Christmas, if he turns out to enjoy straight shaving. which I can't see shy he wouldn't.

STABILIZED THICK REDWOOD BURL LACE KNIFE SCALES #9841 - eBay (item 120327066717 end time Nov-07-08 16:38:12 PST)


if the wood is stabilized does it still need to be sealed and what do you use?? this'll be the first set of scales I try myself. :eek:

Red

You can probably answer most questions by reading this: Wood Stabilizing Specialists, Int'l., LLC | Info, Hints, & Tips!

BUT!!! Those guys are probably one of the best there is in terms of stabilizing wood. Everyone uses a different stabilizing "agent" so not all stabilized wood is created equal. I didn't look too much into it, but I wouldn't put money on eBay wood being the same as something from WSSI. I don't think it's a terrible risk to take though.

P.S.- if you DO get some though and it IS good stuff, please let me know! :D

that wood looks very interesting and very unique. i can see the appeal.

things to note about the size.
- they are on the edge of being too short. measure your scales or take the scales that are currently on the razor and see if 5 3/4 is long enough. usually we like 6" but it might work at a slight angle.
- the width is 7/16. this is over 2x as thick as we usually use. 1/8 is standard so you will be doing ALOT of sanding to shape the scales or they will be very thick and bulky.

lastly, for finishing them, i'd still suggest that you put something on them. even if its simple wax, else theres always the CA, epoxy, or even polyeurathane. but after that sanding you should put something on there to seal it all up.

lastly, might wanna take a practice run or 2 thru with some junk wood or the such if its your first attempt. there is alot of hands on learning that takes place while doing scales. you should practice a couple times before using your good wood.

~J

YES! Please show us the end results.

X

the scales on here measure 5.25", not much room for mistakes. I thought I'd turn one scale on its side on my small bandsaw and cut it in half that way, to get the thickness down. I have also contacted this seller in the past and he said that he could get me longer pieces. I thought I had sent him the dimensions I wanted and not heard back. I'm going to check out this other stabilized wood source Philadelph posted too. I just got outbid so if I get it for a decent price I'll keep you all appraised of what happens. you are as always a great source of information and encouragement, thanks.

Red

if you can check on the import restrictions I may have enough of some nice aussie redwood burl to part with.

I have purchased from them before and had a very good experience. The wood is top notch and the stabilization is very good. I would echo what jscott said about the thickness of the wood...almost half an inch is pretty thick. But if you're in love with the wood, I'm sure you can make it work (it'll just take a lot of sanding). Just FYI Bob was severely injured in a table saw accident a couple of weeks ago, so I'm not sure if they are running back up to speed yet...