Looking for Press Base

colu41

colu41

Joined
Dec 24, 2014
Messages
1,598
I built a press for my makers mark stamp, and am currently using just a cheap piece of mild steel 1" x 2" x 3" for the base where I would put the blank onto. After only 4 stamps, I can already see that 1" chunk of steel starting to have and indent. It is also not perfectly straight or smooth as id like. I could throw it on the grinder to smooth it out but.

I am looking for suggestions for what else I can use. Hardened tool steel, stainless? And where could I get something thick like that and hardened?
 
you can get a 4x4x3/4" bench block or jewelers block on ebay for $14.50 with free shipping. they are hardened.
 
Hm. Thanks guys. Ive never thought of a jewelers block. Ill check them out.
 
How are you liking your DIY press? How hard was it to make? I've been thinking about getting a makers mark but am unsure if I want to etch it or press it. Once you have it all setup it seems like the press would be easier.
 
extdrive said:
How are you liking your DIY press? How hard was it to make? I've been thinking about getting a makers mark but am unsure if I want to etch it or press it. Once you have it all setup it seems like the press would be easier.
Click to expand...

Its a lot easier. And its permanent. Thats what I like most.
The press wasnt that hard to make at all, as long as your local steel shop can cut a damn piece of steel straight. :mad:
A lot if leveling and welding but, in the end way worth it.
 
I'm not a knifemaker, but as a buyer I far prefer a stamp. Looks so much cleaner to me. I love great detail in etching, but stamps... Yeah, they just look really nice.
 
That is good feedback thank you. What kind of force is required? Is a 12 ton press sufficient?
 
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extdrive said:
That is good feedback thank you. What kind of force is required? Is a 12 ton press sufficient?
Click to expand...

I was suggested to use a 20 ton. But I just went with a 12 ton as I've seen many people online use 12. And it works perfectly fine. I've OVER pressed a few practice stamps with ease, so, to me 20 is over kill.
 
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