If I Work G10 With My Files...

[redsquid2]

First of all, let me say I don't think I have ever worked with G10. However, I have a respirator and I read the other thread about the health hazard of the dust, and how to deal with it.

Does G10 dull files? I like working with files, but I don't have the money to go out and buy new files all the time.

Thanks.

Squid

 

[Justin King]

It does dull files relatively quickly. I use half-round double cut files for final shaping on most of my G10 scales and go through them pretty often. The expense is justified IMO, compared to using sandpaper, but it is a little disappointing how quickly they wear out.

 

[james terrio]

You are absolutely right to wear a respirator! Vacuum your bench and work area before taking the respirator off, the dust seems to get everywhere. I have even heard a highly-respected maker say he sands it underwater (like in a big tupperware thing, not in the lake with scuba gear ) so the dust can't get in the air.

For rough work that you know is going to dull files quickly, I recommend Craftsman brand. The 4-in-hand is great for rough shaping handle materials by hand. They are decent but not the very best... the important thing is, SEARS will honor the lifetime warranty. Wear one out, take it back for a new one. :thumbup:

Once you get G10 pretty close to the shape you want, it finishes up fairly easily with sandpaper. One of the things I like about it is, you can leave it coarse or sand it quite fine and it still feels "grippy" when wet. Some folks even buff it to a smooth high gloss, but I haven't tried that.

 

[J. Oeser]

Definitely use a respirator with any handle material especially synthetics like G-10 and micarta. I use a half round bastard cut file one my G-10 and it doesn't wear out as quickly but I do use more sandpaper. I would just experiment with what works for you and like Justin said, files are cheap so don't be afraid to replace them when they are worn out. Same goes with sand paper.

I like the Craftsman idea. Looks like I need to head to Sears.