How to remove scratches on a blade

M

molinee

Joined
Nov 9, 2002
Messages
84
Just picked up a Martindale Gulok No. 2 and it has a lot of rough scratches and file marks on the blade which I assume to be pretty normal. I am curious as to how to "hand smooth" out the blade finish and shine it up using readily available items from your local hardware store. I know that a machete like this isn't go to stay pretty very long, but I want to see how shiny looking I can get it with only basic tools. Would you use steel wool, files, abrasives, etc?? Kind of a learning experiment for me.... Nothing fancy please....LOL
-Thanks
 
Sandpaper. Start at maybe 220 grit, lower if the scratches are really bad, and take it to 400+, even all the way to 2000 if you're a glutton for punishment and want a really shiney machete. You can get the higher grits of sandpaper at an autoparts store as opposed to most hardware stores.
 
After the 400 grit a buffer with compound will make quick work of the blade. I sometimes go to the buffer after the 220. ... You can rig up a buffer with a motor 1/3 or 1/2 HP. .. You can get all you need at almost any hardware. Tell them what you want to do and they will come up with all the parts - You don't need a new motor try and find a used one. .. An air-cond. company will have some for a good price. . The result will make it look like crome. Then use a mix of linseed oil and bee's wax to avoid rust. :thumbup:
 
Be very careful with buffers,especially on long blades like this.It can (read "will") catch on the buffing wheel,ride around it and come at you at 80MPH.Many makers consider it the most dangerous tool a knifemaker uses.In inexperienced hands it can be (and has been) lethal.
Hand sanding to 2000 grit is safe and easy,use wet-or-dry paper.Wet sand to 400 and dry sand above that..Clamp the blade on the edge of a picnic table,or 2X4.Cut the paper into 2" strips,changing often.Use a hardwood block as a backer and sand in long smooth strokes (some like to put a piece of hard leather on the wood).The edge will get wicked sharp as you go,so watch out!
Stacy
 
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