maker's mark stamping jig/guide

[ScottRoush]

Does anybody have a clever yet simple guide or jig for getting consistent stamps? I've seen the use of a big hydraulic jack... but what about some kind of guide to hold the stamp steady?

Also... at what point in the process do most folks stamp? Do most folks hot stamp before heat treating? Or is it usually done on cold, soft steel?

 

[skilldust]

Scott, The last thing I do before I do heat treat is stamp the blade. Jerry

 

[Justin King]

I always stamped hot, right before normalizing. I am starting to use higher alloy steels and am switching to an etching machine, though. The exotic alloys seem less friendly to hot stamping, and to be honest, I don't mind if I go the rest of my life without grinding my maker's mark off another blade during finish grinding.
I never used a guide or jig of any kind to stamp. My tactic was to make the first hit go deep enough that you can get positive engagement in the impression if any further hits are necessary.

 

[Dixieblade57]

Here you go I had to search my files but found one:

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=566520&highlight=makers+stamp

I know some one had a manual design for a hammer but can't find it right now but will keep looking!

 

[ScottRoush]

Dixie... I appreciate it! But I know that device. I was just out at his shop. It works great and if I continue to stamp, I'm gonna go that route. Guess I was just looking for a simple jig....

Thanks fellas....

 

[CUTS LIKE A KRIS]

I use an arbour press and the evers stamp press with mine and have good results. I'll try and get a pic when I get home but here is my keychain:

 

[CUTS LIKE A KRIS]

Here is my set up (a few smacks with a ball pien and it is good to go) :

Sorry- I don't know why it is sideways- it isn't like this on my hard drive.