Reshaping or grinding brass

[Marcelo Cantu]

Hi, I'm not a maker but am interested in reshaping a brass guard or more precisely eliminating a top guard from a knife. This question may sound real dumb but can I simply file it down then smooth it out with progressively finer sand paper? Thanks in advance for any info.

 

[Matt Shade]

Yep, you can shape it any way you want with a file. Then just like you said, progressively finer sandpaper. That may not get the finishback to the original if it was buffed, but you can do a pretty good job.
Might help if you use masking tape and tape off the rest of the handle and definitely the blade to keep from damaging/scratching them (or getting cut)

 

[Sando]

Yup you can. If it's a large area a hacksaw can speed the process - if you're comfortable you won't hit the handle.

The sanding process is a little trick because the wood (or antler) will sand faster than the brass. So while you are sanding it level you need to have a backing for the sand paper. I use everything from pencils to popcicle sticks. Be warned tho. When you are sanding on the handle it will probably change the handle color and you'll have to sand and re-finish the whole thing. That's not bad - I like that sort of thing.

Steve

 

[Matt Shade]

Just had another thought, if this is a press fit or soldered gaurd with no pins or anything and you file the back side clear through to the tang it may come lose. You'll want to look over how its put together and how much you want to take off.

 

[Sando]

Good point Matt!

 

[Marcelo Cantu]

Thanks for the Super quick responses! You guys are great. It's a Bowie Corp. "Trailguide III".

 

[ddavelarsen]

Better watch out - you're likely to get hooked! Next you'll be buying kit blades and more tools, and then...KMG!

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

It's about to become a "Customized Trailguide III".Go for it.

 

[blgoode]

I too would be afrraid the the guard may come off all together. Do you know how its attached? If you try it spray the blade with WD-40 then tape it off so you wont marr it up working on it. Get 2" wide tape and tape it length ways on both sides the spiral wrap it. You'll really kick yourself if you dont. Dont leave the tape on overnight though. The WD-40 will take the sticky residue off as well.