I am playing around with the idea of making grips from sting ray skins. My plan is to build these on a CFX foam core.

1. Has anyone done this technique of something similar? What was your experience like?

2. Best way to lay the seam? I am thinking of cutting a small channel in the bottom side of the grip, tucking the ends in the channel with adhesive.

3. What adhesive would be the best for long-term strength?

4. Do I need to apply a protective coat over the ray skin?

Thank you in advance.

Nuno Paulino did some articles for the magazine on this type of thing. The exact issues escape me at the moment (Bob?).

It can certainly be done. There are several ways to hide the seam. I think Nuno often uses some stitching, ribbon, etc., as an aesthetic component that hides the seam.

I'll try and take a look in the book I put together for him this past year. I'm sure the article is in there.

............

Hello All.

Tom these are the ones I found with Nuno listed as author, I belive the one you are looking for is the last one on my list as it does mention "Ray Skin".

17/2 Grips, Laser Engraved. By Nuno Paulino. 14
15/4 Nuno Paulino & His Custom World. By Nuno Paulino & Tom Kirkman. 22
24-5 Snake Skins With a Twist! By Nuno Paulino. 14
20/5 Handles Made from Synthetic Leather. By Nuno Paulino. 14
Hope this helps.


Tight Wrap & Tighter Lines.

Bob,

New Bern, NC.

Robert to the rescue!! You are a wonderful asset, Robert.

Hi Michael.

Thanks you too.


Tight Wraps & Tighter Lines.

Bob,

New Bern, NC.

Thank so much for the help!

Thank for the assist Tom! Much appreciated.