Hand filing with no jig

mccandmatt

mccandmatt

Joined
Oct 29, 2013
Messages
358
Just have to give out a thanks to those who recently (few weeks ago) who suggested that I forget trying to use a file jig for for filing out bevels. Stacy was one of the ones who suggested it, there were others but I do not remember but thanks. I messed up on the first one I tried freehand when I went to draw file, got the angle wrong so I threw the knife into the scrap bucket. on the next one I got smart made sure I got my plunge in right using a chainsaw file, worked the edge then back to where I wanted the bevel to end. When starting the draw filing I attached a magnetic protractor to the file every once in a while to make sure I was keeping my angle the same on both sides and got a great even bevel on both sides. I found it easier and less hassle.

So to the proponents of hand filing freehand I thank you, and I will get some pics up once I get the handle done. Also I found, for me at least right now, the last few knives when roughing it out I have not used the grinder, or belt sander, I just cut it out as close to profile as possible with a hacksaw and use a file to clean it all up, doing it this way is slower but I find that there is more control and less mistakes. Someday I will get a 2x72 but until then this is fine and good learning.


Matt
 
Great advice here for sure for those that have an open mind and leave their egos at the door.
 
files are the best tool, anywhere.

be careful with the magnet, though. I let my stepson play around with a magnet and a file, and now the file is sort of magnetic. This causes it to trap a LOT of little chips and pins, and makes it load and gaul a lot worse. magnetic files are not good.

glad you are learning the beauty of files.
kc
 
Yea I after I noticed that I removed the magnet from the protractor and degaussed? the file.
 
I think it is a great idea. Files are very easy to clean with a file card. And the cheapo demagnetizer will take care of the rest, I hope :). Teddy
 
I think starting from files is what separates those who get the idea that they want to make knives and try it and realize its too much work and those of us who decide we love it,stick with it,and keep using files until we can get the equipment to make life a little easier. I have a portaband and a 2x42 grinder now but still love when I get to break out the ol' files to do the real close work. :)
 
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