Loose scabbard bands

JeffS · 10th March 2023, 10:39 AM

One of the more common minor issues we face, I would be interested in hearing about different approaches for securing loose scabbard bands.

kai · 10th March 2023, 12:55 PM

Hello Jeff,

Usually this is due to the wood shrinking in dry environments.

Aside from finding a good balance regarding air humidity (always a compromise between metals and organic materials) and avoiding temperature & humidity fluctuations, I first make sure that the wood is well oiled (at least if not varnished with any natural resin like shellac): Repeat multiple applications over a longer period; make sure though to always thoroughly wipe off excess oil after each application and be careful that the oil does not reach any glued parts/surfaces. Take pics of the marks on the wood to ascertain correct position later.

If nurturing the wood does not help, check whether the bands are placed correctly (kinda obvious - these often get mixed up though!). Then a close examination of the construction may lead to a remediation approach.

However, I prefer to keep the bands as is. If one really needs to secure them, I'd go for any fully reversible option like wax or a tiny drop of certain elastic glues.

Regards,
Kai

Tim Simmons · 10th March 2023, 03:43 PM

I good solution to this type of problem is, mucilage glue, especially for organic materials. Being completely harmless reversable.

Sajen · 10th March 2023, 06:07 PM

I also don't be afraid to fix them with a drop or two glue in position.

Peter B. · 11th March 2023, 11:54 AM

I also prefer two drops of glue. It should be water soluble and acid free. (starch glue or methyl cellulose)

10th March 2023, 10:39 AM	#1
JeffS Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Singapore Posts: 441	Loose scabbard bands One of the more common minor issues we face, I would be interested in hearing about different approaches for securing loose scabbard bands. Attached Images

10th March 2023, 12:55 PM	#2
kai Member Join Date: Apr 2005 Posts: 3,255	Hello Jeff, Usually this is due to the wood shrinking in dry environments. Aside from finding a good balance regarding air humidity (always a compromise between metals and organic materials) and avoiding temperature & humidity fluctuations, I first make sure that the wood is well oiled (at least if not varnished with any natural resin like shellac): Repeat multiple applications over a longer period; make sure though to always thoroughly wipe off excess oil after each application and be careful that the oil does not reach any glued parts/surfaces. Take pics of the marks on the wood to ascertain correct position later. If nurturing the wood does not help, check whether the bands are placed correctly (kinda obvious - these often get mixed up though!). Then a close examination of the construction may lead to a remediation approach. However, I prefer to keep the bands as is. If one really needs to secure them, I'd go for any fully reversible option like wax or a tiny drop of certain elastic glues. Regards, Kai

10th March 2023, 03:43 PM	#3
Tim Simmons Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: What is still UK Posts: 5,925	I good solution to this type of problem is, mucilage glue, especially for organic materials. Being completely harmless reversable.

10th March 2023, 06:07 PM	#4
Sajen Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Germany, Dortmund Posts: 9,415	I also don't be afraid to fix them with a drop or two glue in position.

11th March 2023, 11:54 AM	#5
Peter B. Member Join Date: May 2021 Location: Germany Posts: 43	I also prefer two drops of glue. It should be water soluble and acid free. (starch glue or methyl cellulose)