Anodizers, engravers, machinists, and other Cosmetic services

F

fp627

Feedback: +0 / =0 / -0
Joined
Jul 21, 2015
Messages
60
So I realize there are quite a few people and companies out there offering cosmetic services. I'd like some general opinions and feedback on the different services available out there.

To clarify a few things because I'm not sure what the proper terms actually are:
- Anodizers = people who can anodize things different colors too, not just heat treat metals.
- Engravers = engraving services like you may see on fine firearms, fine furniture, or decorative items.
- Machinists = CNC or hand. It's nice to don't want fine engraving like the above. Ex most Sebenzas with art on them look like someone took a drill press and did most of the patterns and then anodized everything afterwards.
- Other cosmetic services = sell new grips, screws, etc.

- We can also include services like regrinds or reshapes as the blade will look different after, but those aren't purely/mostly cosmetic so I didn't mention them above.

So far for anodizers I've stumbled upon bladewelove on instagram. Sent an email with some ideas and asking for some quotes, waiting for response. Don't agree with all of his artstyle, but I do like how he utilizes a lot more colors and seems to have very good control over those colors vs the basic 1 color anodizing or the standard bronze/brown/purple/blue heat treat. Anybody work with him before?
 
Engraving can have a whole different meaning from what you have listed. I have seen some great decorative hand engraving on knives but I think the majority of people think of engraving to mean altering the appearance to show a name, date, logo, etc. I handle all of the engraving that comes through our shop and we either use a laser engraver or rotary engraver. The majority of items are done on the laser which can give you different finishes depending on what you engrave. On anodized aluminum the engraving turns white (or close to it), on most other items we use a special process for laser engraving that turns the metal black when engraved.

The rotary engraved lightly scratches the design into the item which is great on a lot of polished blades (most Case knives), on black coated finishes, and on softer materials like brass and silver.
 
My wife has done engraving for years and she does it with pneumatic (compressed air) and a hand held cutter. Which requires a whole different level of talent than a laser. This is the type you'll see on fine firearms and decorative items. DM
 
David has posted pictures of his wife's work in the Buck s/f. She does outstanding work....
 
David - could you PM me a link to your wife's work (or some other way to show me the work?)
 
There are way too many great guys that provide excellent service, and have second to non skill, on this forum to have any need for IG....

See the link in the above post.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top