Obsidian sgain dubh

**beloitpiper** · 14th February 08, 06:06 PM

I'm an archaeology major. Basically, I sit in a lab all day analyzing pieces of pottery, stone, and whatever else comes through. Today I got a box of obsidian knives, projectile points, and other tools. They were so beautiful that I have decided to make an obsidian sgian dubh.

I'm pretty good at flintknapping and I think I could make a pretty decent blade, but I need help on the handle and sheath. Any takers? I can't pay you much, but any help would be greatly appreciated!!

**The Wizard of BC** · 14th February 08, 06:37 PM

In trade for an Obsidian blade I'd almost be tempted to take on this job.

**Sheep In Wolf's Clothing** · 14th February 08, 06:48 PM

Originally Posted by beloitpiper

I'm an archaeology major. Basically, I sit in a lab all day analyzing pieces of pottery, stone, and whatever else comes through. Today I got a box of obsidian knives, projectile points, and other tools. They were so beautiful that I have decided to make an obsidian sgian dubh.

I miss doing that.. Archaeology U of Ottawa '99 (Go Gee Gee's!!)

Wish I could help. I have just made three Sgain Dubhs, the handles are tricky but much like anything else DIY, it takes practice. Try making them, they are fun to do. I just used a Dremel tool and some sand paper. Just be careful sanding different woods, some can be toxic. There are a couple of great threads on here about how toxic materials can be.
Have fun!
Sara

**BoldHighlander** · 14th February 08, 08:47 PM

Originally Posted by Sheep In Wolf's Clothing

Just be careful sanding different woods, some can be toxic. There are a couple of great threads on here about how toxic materials can be.

I would echo that regarding red sumac. As I mentioned on another thread (regarding pipes) I had a "peace pipe" with the stem made of red sumac. As soon as sucked thru it I had a nasty reaction.
If that was sucking thru it, I couldn't imagine inhaling it's dust particles!

**O'Neille** · 14th February 08, 09:14 PM

Real pine pitch resin, rawhide sinew and antler would be my vote. Let us know when you discover a source of fire. Raw mastodon is so chewy.

**Bugbear** · 14th February 08, 06:57 PM

This is a wonderful idea. I would tightly wrap the handle with thin, wide leather cord of some sort, if I were making something like that. Perhaps I am misunderstanding the project though. Good luck, and hope it turns out well.

* Ya, I'm not thinking of the same construction as you guys, so nevermind, but good luck still.

**TheSp8** · 14th February 08, 07:20 PM

What kind of handle you wanting? Bone or antler I think would be best with obsidian but I have seen wood used. I agree with the above, a trade of a blade for hafting another would be a pretty good deal.

YMOS,
Tony

**beloitpiper** · 14th February 08, 07:37 PM

Steve, could you do an antler handle? Wood would (haha) be great too.

**JS Sanders** · 14th February 08, 08:21 PM

I've always wanted to create a polished bronze bladed sgian.... never have considered a blade of obsidian.

Newly flaked obsidian blades are extraordinarily sharp. I can imagine some numpty that's looking at it running his finger along the blade to determine how sharp it is.