It's not suitable for stabilizing materials for knife handles.....it's very similar to Minwax Wood Hardener......for INTERIOR use. Get it damp, wet, bloody, or just about any type of fluid on it, and it turns a milky white color....and not just on the surface. I've tried both it, as well as the Minwax Wood Hardener for stabilizing, along with many other products.....after two years of wasting money on products, and wood on trying them, it's much cheaper and FAR less trouble to have my woods/materials stabilized by the professionals.