I coat the handles by hand with the epoxy and work it into all of the nooks and cranies. Completely saturate everything. Once it is all dry, light sand to make it uniform, then dipped and brushed with penetrating sealant for a second layer of protection.
I'm glad y'all are liking these. I'm happy we're doing them. We learned the technique from Rick Marchand. He has been using it for years, so it is a prooven technique. They are a lot lighter, and a cheaper way to own handmade Fiddlebacks. With this economy the way it is (#*%^B$(#^%) I thought a lower price point handmade was called for.
That photo is excellent Bushhacker. We need a passaround of one of these. Maybe a Hiking Buddy.