Thread: What are you working on?

I use a thin sheet of aluminum for that, outback!
I will look for some neoprene.

And I'm using a cold wet towel - it also helps keeping the blade cooled if I use some powertool on it.

Work is still slow, so I have matched a John Holler blade up with some interesting picbone carved to resemble stag. Holler (1867-1906) of NYC sold lots with picbone scales, so it seems not a big stretch, although these seem a bit more contemporary.
Being an importer, John Holler sold mostly German blades. I feel this one predates the 'Tower Brand' ones more commonly seen.
It has wonderful, even patina on it and no rust, so I am leaving the blade alone.
I noted this one is a dead-ringer for an old Henckels #12. Indeed a 12 on the backside tang!
I can only conclude the blade was made by Henckels for him around late 1800's



So I found a wedge which allows the blade to sit right in mock-ups.
I will pin the bottom and sand/polish the wedge flush with the scales.
It will be pinned with Austin's small brass collars and brass pins.

Very nice! That is going to look great. While I don't have any picked/jigged bone or stag razors I really like them since they remind me of nice slipjoint pocket knives. Never see them in antique shops though.


Also, an update. Wife got her saying her swearing in ceremony to become a U.S. citizen is on the 13th!!

Originally Posted by dimab

The picture two posts above is the best answer. Looks very simple, but makes a real difference when sanding and polishing.
The magnets alone are not a danger for the full hollows, but you definitely need to curb your enthusiasm a bit when pressing on them. Nothing complicated though.



That's right. I also picked up cheap Chinese demagnetizer to "clean" the blades after working on them.

Outstanding! Learn something new everyday!

Originally Posted by outback

For full hollows, I place a thin piece of neoprene under the blade. It takes care of the flexing of the blade while sanding. Like the mattress on your bed..!

I like this idea better. I can get a piece of this stuff anywhere. Very simple, like me!

I don't have the supplies, but can someone give me some rough measurements for magnetic jig and link to some good magnets. If I have time I might get the wood piece prepared for the magnets and plate while I'm at my folks.

Brother is suppyto be bringing a saw we can cut the RR tracks with so maybe I will get a little anvil while I'm there.

I don't know about the magnets. I think my buddy that made my jig got them off ebay..

I have finished my Holler/Henckels. Turned out really nice, I think.
I even found an old Pitchford wedge to hone along with it...

That came out really nice Tom. Those p ❤️ Ford razors are the bomb too. You will have two great ones to run over the hones together.

Originally Posted by JP5

I don't have the supplies, but can someone give me some rough measurements for magnetic jig and link to some good magnets. If I have time I might get the wood piece prepared for the magnets and plate while I'm at my folks.

Brother is suppyto be bringing a saw we can cut the RR tracks with so maybe I will get a little anvil while I'm there.

if I remember right I have seen some dimensions somewhere but I can't remember. I don't think that there is a right or wrong within reason.

measure your blade or blades. Stay + or- 1/4 inch and make it out of oak or maple or what your have on hand and I think that you will be alright!