Ok, finished shaping the handle
![](http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/bigcountry_ky/ColtonOsage/Handle1.jpg)
But still can't stand the idea of a knot in such a critical place on the handle
![](http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/bigcountry_ky/ColtonOsage/IMG_0610.jpg)
So I sanded down the handle "back" real smooth, and am going to cover with elk bone.
![](http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/bigcountry_ky/ColtonOsage/SandedHandleBack.jpg)
Sanded down a piece of elk bone real thin, and tapered the ends.
![](http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/bigcountry_ky/ColtonOsage/Elkbonesanded.jpg)
And carefully hand mated the two pieces and glued up and let dry overnight
![](http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/bigcountry_ky/ColtonOsage/Gluedup.jpg)
This morning, using a dremel and every other file I had, I blended in and smoothed out. Should be strong.
![](http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/bigcountry_ky/ColtonOsage/Handlebone3.jpg)
Not sure if I like the color. Wished I would have used buffalo horn. I might put an overlay of elk hoof or horn over this for looks.
![](http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn73/bigcountry_ky/ColtonOsage/Handlebone2.jpg)