gluing on scales

[AJH_Knives]

so i am about to glue scales on two blades. one is 3/16" thick and the other is 1/4" thick. both have many holes drilled into the tang for balance. my question is when gluing the scales on do i fill those holes with glue as well? in my mind i can fill the holes in the tang and there will be a glue rivet connecting the sides together... any opinions here?

 

[bladegrinder]

I wouldn't be to concerned with filling the holes with epoxy,as you put the scales on, the epoxy will leach into the holes.that is if you use a good coat of epoxy on them.using pins or bolts will help strengthen them too.just make sure all the oxidation and scale is removed on the tang before you glue it up.

 

[LRB]

I fill them. It does add a good bit of strength, but I also use pins for shear strength and insurance. I once had to change out some buffalo scales done that way. The pins drove out pretty easy, but I could not break the scales loose with a four pound hammer. Had to burn them off. That greatly impressed me.