Thanks for all the great tips...using andy wayne's lighter trick I was able to fix the handle just fine...still noticable marks on both sides of the handle but not nearly as unpleasant as they were. Now with sggestions for fixing the sheath I am excited all over again. To top it off I got a message from Renee inviting me to send the knife back..although I am tempted I hate to face being without my new favorite blade...I have sharpened it to scary sharp status and find a reason to use it every day. What say you dogs? Send it back or not? I know I know I still owe pics of what I am talking about. I will try and get some up although as a middle school teacher and today being the first day back from break I am a little overwhelmed.
Thanks for everything,
Patrick