Setting up your filework

BennytheBlade · Post by **BennytheBlade** » Sun Feb 15, 2004 2:09 am

I am wondering about the different ways to setup up filework.
what different ways have Bill et al used? Id love to hear as many ideas and try to get one that works for me.
I have been practicing w/ a layout and freehand, and its ok, but not great.

Razor_54 · Post by **Razor_54** » Sun Feb 15, 2004 3:15 am

I'm no expert on the matter, but have done some with Nemo's guidance. I start off with a template on masking tape, then tape it to the spine of blade or spring. Then with a dremel mark all the cuts and finish off with the files. With this my filework has been very symetrical, if i do say so myself.

Post by **Bill DeShivs** » Sun Feb 15, 2004 3:30 am

I don't do a lot of filework, because everyone else is doing it. But when I do, if a layout is required I just use a Sharpie pen and draw it on. It will wipe off with a paper towel moistened with WD 40. I then use whatever means is most appropriate to remove the metal- belt sander, Dremel, files. rubber wheels. I do polish the cuts, which is something a lot of people don't do.
Bill

BennytheBlade · Post by **BennytheBlade** » Sun Feb 15, 2004 5:30 am

2 very helpful posts.
I thank you both.
If anyone else does something different, please post away. The more info, the better to make a decision.

Vagrant · Post by **Vagrant** » Sun Feb 15, 2004 6:51 am

I've heard that some people use a checkering file to both lay-out and start the filing.

rapidboy1 · Post by **rapidboy1** » Sun Feb 15, 2004 7:04 pm

I have made 1 freehand attempt and it turned out OK but I'm considering constructing a kind of "LANSKY" system to keep the angle consistent.
Its not really necessary on a spring where the sides of the spine wont be seen but on a blade it might keep things a little neater.

BennytheBlade · Post by **BennytheBlade** » Mon Feb 16, 2004 2:13 pm

thats apretty cool idea rb
I think mine would look better if I had more even spacing in my filework
I cant freehand it that well, even when I mark it.

Claudester · Post by **Claudester** » Tue Feb 17, 2004 2:10 am

Benny,
While I have the blade in a vise I take a tape measure and mark my increments for the rounds and the weaves on angles. Then with a cordless dremel with a cutting wheel and make all the starting cuts for the rounds and file them by hand. Next, while holding the knife in one hand and the dremel in the other I make all my angle cuts like using a whittling knife. After I have all the filing done I
put a stone in the dremel and go on a slight angle across the lenght of the file work on both sides. Then I take steel wool and work it by hand for maybe 15 mins. per side or until I'm happy with it. Last, I take it to the buffer. Works for me.
Take Care

mrbigg · Post by **mrbigg** » Tue Feb 17, 2004 3:29 am

benny - my method is similar to the claudesters - but i find the most important thing is to mark it out in metric

the italian stiletto's prefer that!!

anyway - i have a certain ballpoint pen that for some reason will mark the polished stainless spring. lately i've been using the edge of my thumb to guide the file instead of "ticks" with the dremel....i do however start with my smallest round and work up...

another thing i've found useful is to draw out your ideas on paper first - this gives you a chance to see if you like it - or if it will even work...

here's one i did last weekend...looks better in person

BennytheBlade · Post by **BennytheBlade** » Thu Feb 26, 2004 4:47 pm

Thanks guys, Im going to start up this weekend and see what happens.
helpful stuff, as usual.

edited b/c I forgot-
NICE WORK Mr. Bigg!

daddyloko · Post by **daddyloko** » Thu Feb 26, 2004 7:30 pm

mrbigg that looks really good, nice even looking filework.

mrbigg · Post by **mrbigg** » Fri Feb 27, 2004 2:04 pm

thanks abe! i thought i'd try something different....

BennytheBlade · Post by **BennytheBlade** » Wed Mar 03, 2004 4:02 am

well, Ive worked some 6-8 odd hours filing away and think I got it laid out pretty well and have a "technique" that doesnt tire me after 20 minutes and so far Im satisfied. But its slow going.
Ill drop a pic later when Im further along.

mrbigg · Post by **mrbigg** » Wed Mar 03, 2004 4:04 am

can't wait to see benny!

Post by **Bill DeShivs** » Wed Mar 03, 2004 6:33 am

A fine point "Sharpie" pen will write on anything!
WD 40 on a cloth will remove it from metal.
Bill