Is X cut wood OK for knife handles

[TheMightyMitch]

As the title says. I recently got some 'birdseye maple' which contained no birdseyes, but lots of spalting, so is ok
But it is cross cut, I was wondering if it is OK for knife handles? It is a block, so it may be a stick tang or scales.
Thanks
Mitch

 

[T1Viper]

Yes I believe its fine, not used them yet myself but I've seen them advertised and they look lovely on knifes.

Have a look at the pics here http://www.britishblades.com/forums/showthread.php?97090-Cross-Cut-Zebrawood-and-1095

Edited to change link, my mistake.

 

[Roe Ring]

My knife from Stewart Marsh has cross cut maple scales and they look great. It's pretty normal I think and some woods show a better grain when cross cut.

Good luck with your project and post some pics when your done.

Mark

 

[luckylee]

i have recently just finished a knife with x cut spalted maple and mine has turned out fine.
hope that helps.

 

[demographic]

There' seems to be a few differing ideas about what constitutes cross cut timber on this thread...Ones even a cross cut blade converted to a knife.

For me as a carpenter I really dislike seeing much end grain (especially Spalted timber which I always think looks like someone has gone mental with a felt tip over) and its a lot weaker. But if that's what people like then who am I to judge.

 

[TheMightyMitch]

Hmm. I guess since it's not really strong, I could use it for a little knife like a puukko or a bird n trout... not that big machete eh

 

[Shinken]

Or send it off to be stabilized, that will add strength. I know of good people in uk that do a profetional job. Pm me if you want there details