Knife Scales

Making fixed blade knife. What is best way to drill holes in steel and scales so everything lines up right?

Am planning on using compression rivets. Using circular saw blades for metal. How do I hold knife together while working on handle? Just second knife that I am making. Have much to learn. Any input would be welcome.

I always drilled the blade first, then using the blade as a ‘drill guide’, clamped each half of the handle on its respective side one at a time and drilled the handle halves FROM the blade side. (I use a drill press to be sure to get the holes vertical.)

I prefer blades made from a harder and thicker steel myself for most uses.

I buy ‘oil hardening’ High Carbon steel flats in the appropriate size, make the blade and just ‘roughly’ shape the cutting edge(s) then heat the blade until ‘cherry red’ over the entire cutting edge and temper the blade by cooling in oil. (THIS actually adds some more carbon to the edge.)
Then I finish grind the cutting edge, NOT letting it get hot, and hone it. Blade is not brittle, but holds an edge REAL good. You have to keep it clean though as it WILL rust if not cared for.

Hope this helps.

Smith and Wesson 980 Large Hunting Knife Handle Modification Accident Injury