soldering bolsters on lockback

R

rookie

Joined
Jan 16, 2000
Messages
60
somebody please help me . i'm at the point of severe breakdown. i'm using 304 stainless .040 for liners and 1/8" for bolsters stay brite 1/16" solder and stay silv paste flux and a propane torch . brass is no problem , WHY CAN'T I GET THE STAINLESS TO STICK TOGETHER? what am i doing wrong or am i using the wrong materials or what. i've triedprobably 20 times and can't get it to stick at all. ok now i'm on my knees begging PLEASE HELP ME!!!!!!!!!

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Shane ------------------- If you don't have time to do it right the first time, When do you think you'll have time to fix it!!!
 
I swear by liquid flux! I don't do that much soldering on my knives but when I do, I use low temp 430 degree solder from Sheffields Supply (800-874-7007). They also sell a liquid flux that works well but I buy Tinnemans flux at my local welding supplier.
I like to "tin" everything I solder. In other words, coat the two mating parts with solder first. After you have a solder layer attached to each part, joining them is easy.
Once the metal is clean and at the right temp, you can spread the molten solder around using a Q-tip dipped in the flux. When the mating parts are tinned just clean them again with fine sand paper or scotch brite to remove the burned flux residue. Then put a drop of flux between them and heat slowly. As the solder melts the parts will join together and that's it! Somtimes I will clamp the parts being carefull not to squeeze all the solder out!!
Hope this helps!
Neil

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Talonite, new pics, knives in stock!

blackwoodknives.com
 
Woah, Neil, that has got to be one of the top 5 (if not the best ever) tips of all time here in shop talk! I have always had so much trouble soldering bolsters, that I all but gave up. Now, especially that I'm going to be making folders, your tip will be a huge help to me. Thanks big time on this one Neil!! Take care! Michael

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Always think of your fellow knife makers as partners in the search for the perfect blade, not as people trying to compete with you and your work!http://www.nebsnow.com/L6steel
Buzzards gotta eat, same as worms!!!
 
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