changing finnish on Cold steel Trail Master...

[Whiskey James SASS#85199]

Howdy All,

I've got an old High Carbon Trail Master that I want put a plain wood handle on and make a leather sheath.  I'd also like to give a less modern finish. 
I appreciate any help,

Whiskey James

[Dave Cole]

There are numerous methods. Being a knifemaker, I use a Ferric chloride mixture, but for a single blade you could get by with some household type stuff to accomplish the same thing, just takes a bit longer.Once the blade is bare, soaking in vinegar or even yellow mustard will produce a darker patina.Bleach will produce browns and some rusting.Test a little on the tang since it will be covered by the handles scales.After soaking if it's a little too dark for you, some 600 grit sandpaper will lighten up.Dave