Files for filing spines

D

DHackney

Joined
Jul 12, 2004
Messages
178
Hi folks,

Can some one suggest a good set of files for doing the filework on knife spines? Do I need a set of diamond files or will a set of regular, small files work.

Also, I am having one bugger of time getting the plunge (interface between the blade and the ricasso) lines nice and crisp. This has been the most worrysome task I've run into thus far and cannot seem to get a handle on a good technque. I've been having to resort to using a file to clean up the irregularities. Any suggestions are welcome!

Many thanks,
Dana Hackney
Monument, CO
 
Files:
Look in the MSC catalog for Swiss pattern files. You can get any size and shape. Beware... they aren't cheap. Also beware that you'll never have all you want. Notice I said "want" and not "need". :rolleyes:

Plunge Lines:

Try changing up to a higher grit a little earlier so you won't leave too many coarse-grit scratches in the plunge area. Working these out can be a real chore. work backwards to your plunge - not straight into it. You'll see the plunge starting to form This usually works for me. Practice Practice Practice! This stuff comes in time, Dana. Before long, it'll be just like you were raised with a blade in your hand and a grinder in your crib. :)
 
Thanks for the info Jeff. I'll take a look at the MSC sight shortly.

Now, when you say, work backwards to the plunge, do you mean as you grind the bevel just put some force against the plunge? I wish I was close enough to some of you folks so I could watch!

Thanks again,
Dana
 
Fill out your profile, Dana. Your Location will show at the top of your posts. It's the best way we can hook you up with someone. :) Meanwhile, there is nothing like a good video. Johnny Stout has a new one out. He's pretty darn good. He'd be a great one to learn from.
 
I've been using the same el cheapo set of nickleson needle files for a couple years now. They still cut pretty good too, and I use them a lot (have you seen my makers mark ? :) ) I got them at lowes for about $10(set of 6). I think the next round I'll even spring for the set with handles since its only a few bucks more :D
 
I agree buy the best you can afford, but I actually have a made in China rat tail file I've done file work on about fifty blades and it still cutting pretty good. I already had it and figured I'd use it instead of buying a new one. When I need a new one it will be a better brand. Any metal cutting files will work. Just make sure you do your file work before heat treat.
Scott
 
Thanks a lot guys.

I will take a look for the video. I'm also watching a couple of e-bay sales for diamond/swiss file sets that look pretty good. I've got to get better at this bidding stuff though. I was <5mins from winning a bid on a nice Mityuno Height Guage and had to pull away at the last moment. I returned to the time and some yo-yo beat me out :mad: !

Best regards,
Dana
 
I use good quality US made files for my filework. To clean out the filework after heat treat I use some diamond files of the appropriate size. I've actually used the diamond files to do filework after heat treat to fix some flaws.
 
Thank you folks! I ALWAYS tried to listen intently to these responses. Judging from the knives I've seen displayed on your homepages, I figure I'm working with the cream of the crop - awesome work guys - I mean it- WHEW! :eek:
 
Here comes old cheap Don again...........
Keep your eyes open at yard sales and flea markets. Pick up good quality files and if they are dull, soak them in Muriatic Acid for a while.

Works like a charm !

Oh...plunge lines are something that take a lot of practice. Get some mild steel and do nothing but do practice grind for a while. One day...it will dawn on you that they are right.
 
for the tip about the files and the encouragment regarding the plunge lines. I'll keep up the practice!

Dana
 
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