Finishing a WoodRiver Knife Kit

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Making a Custom Knife with WoodRiver Kit

The WoodRiver Drop Point Skinner Knife Kit is a great choice for anyone who enjoys DIY knife making and wants to experience the satisfaction of creating a tool that’s both functional and personal. In this video, I show the process of making a custom knife with WoodRiver kit using Charcoal Dymalux Knife Scales, a durable material prized for its strength and water resistance. It was my first time working with Dymalux, and I quickly discovered just how tough it is.

I usually shape my handles with hand tools like the Kutzall Hand Rasps, which offer more control and feel. But Dymalux doesn’t shape easily, and my timeline was tight. I switched to the belt sander, and progress finally smoothed out. Once the handle took form, the knife began to show its clean lines and outdoor-ready profile.

Best Finishes for Wood Handle Knives

For the finish, I used boiled linseed oil, one of the best finishes for wood handle knives. It enriched the deep charcoal tone and gave the surface a soft, hand-rubbed glow. I later learned that Dymalux doesn’t actually need a finish—you can simply polish it through the grits for a high-gloss shine—but the oil added warmth that suited this project perfectly.

This wood handle knife turned out sleek, strong, and ready for any adventure. A knife kit like this offers an easy way to explore DIY knife making while learning skills that carry into every woodworking project that follows. If you’re curious about making a custom knife with WoodRiver kit, this project shows how satisfying it is to turn raw parts into a blade that feels entirely your own. If you’re looking for a more detailed knife-making guide, check out Get a Handle on Knife Making and Stay Sharp.

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