Guard soldering question

D

Dan Morgan

Joined
Dec 9, 2008
Messages
27
I'm curious as to what people use to solder their guards to their knives. I have a knife in progress that is at that point, but no knowledge about what to use for solder. I work as a jeweler, so I'm very familiar with soldering in general, but I think the 1200+ degree solders I use are far too high, and I would fear damaging the temper.

I've heard people refer to "Silver solder", but what brand / melting point?

I appreciate the help.

-Dan
 
12345678910 said:
http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1vZ1xr5/R-100672838/h_d2/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&storeId=10051&catalogId=10053

Stay-Brite Solder
Perfect for knifemakers, this low temperature ( 435 degree) solder is 5 times stronger than ordinary solders. 4 % silver, 96% tin, cadmium free. Kit contains enough solder and flux for a good dozen or more knives

Stay-Brite Solder and Flux kit
Click to expand...

True, unless your blade is stainless. If thats the case, you will need a flux and solder for stainless. I too am a professional jeweler so heres a hint you actually already know and it works for this as well:

When your soldering guards, remember solder flows to the area of greatest heat (and if fluxed, all the faster!) OR where gravity takes it. So if you introduce a lot of solder from the back face of the gurad with the tip pointing down, your going to end up with a big blob of solder on the face of the guard! When I solder the occasional guard, I have the knife tang clamped in visegrips at a 90o so it will sit on the table without falling over, but I can still pick it up and turn it here and there while soldering. I have the torch clamped in a vise so I can use both hands.

m
 
Sounds like it's really just a matter of personal taste. I'll have to see what they have locally and go from there. Thanks for all the advice!

-Dan
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top