Thumb Serrations(wrong term?) question

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drysideshooter

Joined
Dec 6, 2011
Messages
244
Hello,

I am getting ready to start a knife for my son. I would like to put serrations (probably the wrong term) in the thumb area and am wondering what type of file I should use. I like the serrations that from the top looking down it looks like a squiggly line of a bunch of flat topped triangles. It looks like it would be done with a triangle shaped file. The blade is .130 high carbon stainless from Jantz.

Thanks for any file advice. I am unsure if I should use a flat file held at a 45deg angle to create a triangle, or if there is a triangular file just made for this purpose? Looking on the Jantz site I can't find a file that looks like it has a triangular profile.
 
A checkering file from a Brownell's or any gun-smithing site is what most use. They come in lines per inch for a courser or finer pattern.

BTW Thumb Serrations = Jimping.

V also jimping with a checkering file:

rsz_rp_ds_5562.jpg
 
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Jimping is correct, however what Dryside is asking about sounds like different types of file work.

This is jimping:
9a8b73d254a20436655b103c52644f1c_a28.jpg


This type of filing/grinding is typically used to add some extra stability when the thumb or forefinger is pressed onto that section and prevents slipping (great when field dressing). It can be done several ways...checkering file, cut-off disk on a Dremel, file, or even a cylindrical carbide burr of appropriate diameter.


This is an example of some spine filework:
vope75.jpg


This type of work is done with files (round, flat, triangle, etc). There are several how-to's and tutorials on filework, as well as YouTube videos if you search for them. It theoretically could be used in the same manner as jimping (depending on the design) but it's primary focus is embellishment.

Also, with a premade and heat treated blank, you will have to look into diamond files for the filework or carbide cutters and discs for the jimping.
 
Thanks guys. Grizzlybear, the style i was trying to explain is very similar to the top knife in you pic of the three knives, except without the cool snake head and tail.

I have some checkering files. I am thinking they may not be up to the task of an already treated stainless blade though? I am also going to order some 5160 and do a blade from scratch too.

Thanks for letting me know the correct terminology as well. I'm anxious to try some jimping. Heading to Youtube right now.
 
Traction file work - AKA JIMPING - is done with small files called needle files. Most of the supply companies sell then as a set. Look in the index under "Needle Files".

I don't know anyone who uses a checkering file to do jimping. It seems like it would do a poor job. Checkering files are for hand checkering and knurling.

A jewelers saw with a #0 or #2 blade will help make jimping and set up for the fancier file work a lot faster and more accurate.
Mark the cut lines with a sharpie, and make shallow cuts with the saw. Then use the cuts to start the file strokes. You will get a more even placement and won't have the file drifting off center. It is really useful for making small back-cuts, like the thorns on " Barbed Wire" or "Thorn and Vine" pattern.
 
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