How to buff a knife with Ivory Micarta scales

[pearlroosterman]

I need some advice, I have several Puma knives with brass bolsters and yellow (ivory) micarta scales that need buffing. I am concerned how the buffing may color or stain the micarta. Any ideas of how to do this without ruining the handles? Thank you in advance!!! John

[edge213]

I need some advice, I have several Puma knives with brass bolsters and yellow (ivory) micarta scales that need buffing. I am concerned how the buffing may color or stain the micarta. Any ideas of how to do this without ruining the handles? Thank you in advance!!! John

I have used Ren Wax on micarta.

[glennbad]

You have to go light, and make sure your wheels are CLEAN. I use a wheel rake to clean out any built up compounds. Then I use white or pink, with very little pressure. Or sometimes, I will just use a clean buff wheel with no compound.

Not sure if that answers your question.

[pearlroosterman]

Thank you both for the info. Very much appreciated. John

[glennbad]

One other thing. If you are using a buffer, try not to buff the brass and micarta at the same time, as the brass will definitely leave staining and residue on the micarta that will be very hard to get off. In cases like that, I will tape off(painters tape works fine) one of them, buff the other material, and then tape and buff the other material after.

[Bill DeShivs]

Buffing residue usually comes off pretty easily by using a thick paste of baking soda, Dawn, and just a little water. Scrub it in with your thumbs and rinse. Wax when dry.

[Reverand]

That is good information Bill!
I keep two buffing wheels: one for metal, and another for handles.

[OLDE CUTLER]

One other thing. If you are using a buffer, try not to buff the brass and micarta at the same time, as the brass will definitely leave staining and residue on the micarta that will be very hard to get off. In cases like that, I will tape off(painters tape works fine) one of them, buff the other material, and then tape and buff the other material after.

I agree with this advise. If by chance you do get black stuff on the white handle material, I use Brasso to quickly remove it.

[pearlroosterman]

Thank you all so much! Great information. Much appreciated. John