Lee wrote in part:

http://home.comcast.net/~leeleader/P1010099.JPG

I am scraping off the remnants of the dark red finish. Does anyone know what
Disston used for the final coating on these Applewood handles? 

Is it varnish, shellac, something else?

Peter writes back:

Shellack is dissolvable in Metholated spirits (Ah, I think de-natured alcohol
Paddy). So soak a part of the finish with a wetted rag and see if it softens.

Varnish will wrinkle with the application of paint stripper - nasty stuff! 
Go to it Sherlock!

PeterH in searing Perth.
Eggs fried on the barbie? don't bother
wasting gas mate, just chuck 'em on the
bonnet (hood) of the car! 

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