The best way to test for bakelite is to CAREFULLY put the handle under running hot water. It only takes a few seconds and smell the handle. The other way is to get a product called Simichrome Polish. Put some on the handle and wipe it off using a q-tip. The color should be yellow. No yellow, probably lucite.

At one time 409 was suggested. But I’ve been told the formula has changed and may not give a good result.

Bakelite is a material based on the thermosetting phenol formaldehyde resin, polyoxybenzylmethylenglycolanhydride developed in 1907–1909 by Belgian-American Dr. Leo Baekeland. Formed by the reaction under heat and pressure of phenol (a toxic, colourless crystalline solid) and formaldehyde (a simple organic compound), generally with a wood flour filler, it was the first plastic made from synthetic components. It was used for its electrically nonconductive and heat-resistant properties in radio and telephone casings and electrical insulators, and was also used in such diverse products as kitchenware, jewellery, pipe stems, and children’s toys.

Lucite is one brand name of Acrylic glass. Acrylic glass is a thermoplastic and transparent plastic. Chemically, it is the synthetic polymer of methyl methacrylate. It is sold by the tradenames Plexiglas, Limacryl, R-Cast, Perspex, Plazcryl, Acrylex, Acrylite, Acrylplast, Altuglas, Polycast, Oroglass and Lucite and is commonly called acrylic glass or simply acrylic. Acrylic, or acrylic fiber, can also refer to polymers or copolymers containing polyacrylonitrile. The material was developed in 1928 in various laboratories and was brought to market in 1933 by Rohm and Haas Company and is often used as an alternative to glass.

Bakelite has a very distinct odor somewhat like a shellac. If there is no odor, it’s likely the piece is Lucite.

Neat answers, I never knew what is posted above. I was told to take a knife, if it scratches or cuts it is NOT bakelite.

One test is to rub the handle with your finger. If you get a pine odor then it is most likely bakelite.

From what I have read the Simichrome test is not always reliable and sometimes give false positive results. What is considered the standard test is to use a bit of 409 on a q-tip and gently rub the piece in an inconspicuous spot. If it turns bright yellow it is bakelite. This test doesn’t always work with black bakelite. Simichrome is good for polishing bakelite however.

I have never heard of the hot water test for Bakelite. I have read that you can use the hot water test for celluloid. If it smells like camphor then it is celluloid. However, heat and moisture can be destructive to celluloid so this should be done very carefully.