Restoration Workshop Library.

ariel · 1st July 2011, 12:12 PM

Just a question: what is the proper way to secure the crossguard on a kilij?
Long time ago, Artzi suggested wrapping a thin ribbon of leather at the "ricasso" , glue it, mount the guard and then filling the cavity with some hardening material for a secure bond ( epoxy as per his recommendation). This works very well from the mechanical point of view.
But I am just wondering whether anybody knows an alternative method?

katana · 1st July 2011, 06:58 PM

I think this is a good idea and have mentioned in a few threads that it would be nice to have restoration techniques (DIY guides) put in a single package. Another, useful reference would be what and where to source materials for restoration. Wood is a particular problem, locally sourced wood used in the manufacture of weapons, scabbards, hilts etc are often difficult to find in our native countries. So ID's of the original wood used would be great so that you have a chance of repairing/replacing with the authentic material or have the information to make enquiries abroad to source the correct timber.

Information on the original manufacturing techniques and substances (natural glues, stains etc) are extremely useful for restoration too. For instance I had to re-haft a Zulu spearhead.....using their methods I was able to replicate a reasonably 'authentic' spear.....although the wood is incorrect, it is a good substitute.

Kind Regards David

1st July 2011, 12:12 PM	#1
ariel Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Ann Arbor, MI Posts: 5,503	Just a question: what is the proper way to secure the crossguard on a kilij? Long time ago, Artzi suggested wrapping a thin ribbon of leather at the "ricasso" , glue it, mount the guard and then filling the cavity with some hardening material for a secure bond ( epoxy as per his recommendation). This works very well from the mechanical point of view. But I am just wondering whether anybody knows an alternative method?

1st July 2011, 06:58 PM	#2
katana Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Kent Posts: 2,658	I think this is a good idea and have mentioned in a few threads that it would be nice to have restoration techniques (DIY guides) put in a single package. Another, useful reference would be what and where to source materials for restoration. Wood is a particular problem, locally sourced wood used in the manufacture of weapons, scabbards, hilts etc are often difficult to find in our native countries. So ID's of the original wood used would be great so that you have a chance of repairing/replacing with the authentic material or have the information to make enquiries abroad to source the correct timber. Information on the original manufacturing techniques and substances (natural glues, stains etc) are extremely useful for restoration too. For instance I had to re-haft a Zulu spearhead.....using their methods I was able to replicate a reasonably 'authentic' spear.....although the wood is incorrect, it is a good substitute. Kind Regards David