Method for cutting ridges in thumb rests?

[zeus36]

Any idea of the best way to cut ridges into a blade spine to create a non-slip thumb rest? This would be something a hobbyist would be able to do (no access to lasers). I've tried using a cut off wheel in a Dremmel, but that gives an uneven cut due to flex. Filing takes a very long time. Diamond burrs do ok. I'm looking to increase the number of serrations on my Military' thumb rest.

 

[Dirk]

Depending on the axact cut you are looking for, pick up some end mills and use them in your Dremel. Wear safety glasses as they can chip. If the metal isn't too hard, I use a checkering file. Works on most steel, except really hard stuff.

 

[Jason Burns]

Checkering files are pretty expensive and will most likely lose their teeth on a hardened blade. I agree with the Dremel+Burr plan but they will probably be more even if you use a needle file . . . unless you are very steady with the dremel or build a jig.

 

[gull wing]

I cut mine with an abrasive wheel set in an arbor. Clamp knife in a mini vice, chuck arbor in my micro mill and grind away. The wheel I use is from a mini grinder and just the right thickness for a nice groove.

Now if you don't have these items, you can use a dremel type abrasive wheel(which will be thinner than the above) set in an arbor, chucked in your drill press, you must still clamp knife in a vice, then raise or lower as required. this method is not as precise.

Warning, doing this free hand will be disastrous.
Good luck!

 

[Jeff Clark]

I would get a carbide hacksaw blade. There are two kinds that I have used. One is a round steel rod encrusted with carbide grit (this is too thick) and the other is a toothless flat hacksaw blade with carbide grit along one edge (this is the one I would use). To keep your cuts even you might take a comb and remove every-other tooth. Tape this to the side of your knife and work the hacksaw between the remaining teeth.

 

[zeus36]

To keep your cuts even you might take a comb and remove every-other tooth. Tape this to the side of your knife and work the hacksaw between the remaining teeth.

Thanks, that should do the trick! Good Idea! got some old cheapies that I can practice on.

 

[Quiet Storm]

Ask a knifemaker to do it for you. He will do a professional, visually appealing job and I guess that it won't be significantly more expensive than buying the tools to do it.