If you get some kirinite be aware it is very soft to work with. MUCH MUCH softer than G-10. I ruined my first scale I tried because I cut much too much before realizing it. I was using a chamfer router bit in a Dremel and even the post that is supposed to ride along the edge of the material cut into the kirinite. I assume it created enough heat to melt it. It acts more like plastic when working with it than G-10 or wood, etc.BOOMER52 wrote:Jack... Thanks for the enthusiastic comment...!
These have been engraved with a 90 deg. v-bit on my CNC router. First time I've attempted this. Might have to investigate the technique further. It really turned out nicely...!
Those Kirinite scales of yours are terrific looking... I'm real tempted to get some to play with...!
There are some really interesting colors in this stuff though. I could see using it for a lot more than just knife handles. One thing about it is the color pattern isn't consistant through the depth of the material. As you sand downward the pattern will change. It's like different paint colors have been stirred instead of layered like you get with layered G-10 and things like that.
). Leaves opportunity for shaping options. Plus a thicker handle feels a little better to me. The buffs are similar to a 3M scrubbing pad of different hardnesses (grits). I tried a felt Dremel polishing wheel with 3µ DMT paste and it immediately dug into the surface. I may have had the Dremel too fast. I don't remember. But, the kirinite is removed fast enough that using the less aggressive methods is not as time consuming as harder materials. You would think this would be a benificial aspect. I guess it is as long as you know how to deal with it. Also, being of a softer texture it provides a nice grip. Also, I'm thinking it may scratch less in a pocket with change and such because the material may "give" instead of scratch. I'm thinking of the titanium bolsters on the Sage4 which scratch if you look at them hard compared to the softer scale material. I carried the Sage4 in my pocket for a day or two and to be honest I kind of liked it. Having the heavy knife in the bottom of my pocket actually felt good. Very easy to get out also. I was wearing jeans though. I wouldn't want it there if I were wearing slacks. Normally I would carry only small pocket knives like this any more and have to dig for it depending on the other crap I accumulate in a pocket. You know, hundred dollar bills and such. 
