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Post by erichofprovence on Feb 18, 2024 12:29:07 GMT
Good day to you all,
I am currently customising a bollock dagger and making a scabbard for it. I intend to give it to a friend for his birthday. I was hoping to present it to him in a wooden chest (that way he has something to store it as well). I know that oak tends to oxidise steel, so I was wondering what alternative type of wood you would recommend? I wouldn't go for anything super expensive either, since it is my first attempt at a box and don't want to overspend on the box itself.
Thanks!
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mrstabby
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Post by mrstabby on Feb 18, 2024 13:32:27 GMT
Poplar - easy to work with, gets scratched easily unless you paint/lacquer or leather wrap it, on the other hand will dull cutting edges the least. Beech/Birch - medium hard to work with, more scratch resistant (have been looking to buy some for a scabbard, but it's sold out in my region) Ash or Hickory - pretty hard and resistant to damage
These are all relatively steel safe.
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Post by madirish on Feb 18, 2024 15:51:17 GMT
Sorry, you seem to be mixing two things...are you asking for a wood to use inside the scabbard or a wood from which to make a presentation box?
If the former...use thin poplar or limewood sheets (can be bought online from hobbyist shops)
if you are talking about making a box....use whatever wood you want! It doesn't matter if the wood is not in contact with the blade. Line the bottom of the box with felt or some fabric of choice.
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mrstabby
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Post by mrstabby on Feb 18, 2024 16:11:09 GMT
Yeah, if the box has no direct contact to steel, it's relatively inconsequential. I would paint/lacquer a box though, because it's just nicer than bare wood, so wood coise wouldn't matter anyways.
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Post by eastman on Feb 18, 2024 16:11:23 GMT
I agree with madirish - if the wood is not in direct contact with the steel, corrosion is not a major concern (if they are storing it in a place always above 77F/25C with high humidity, then a box could be an issue). Red oak is easily available in home improvement stores in the USA pre-planed and sanded. Cherry and Walnut are other options (but may require a special order depending on the store).
added- finishing the wood will improve the presentation. Cheaper, softer woods (like poplar) can be painted or stained. An oil or polyurethane finish is a good sealer for wood (I have been using Watco Danish Oil for decades).
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Post by erichofprovence on Feb 18, 2024 17:27:03 GMT
Thank you all for such quick replies. Indeed the scabbard is not a problem and already half done (I'm using veneer). I was just wondering about the box, but that's reassuring. I'll just make sure I cushion the interior properly.
Thanks a lot and I'll make sure to share the results in the customisation section.
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