Thread: Question About Shaping Scales

You can get a mini lift table that will clamp to a work bench. You can mount your rotary tool in it, get a mini router bit set for it and wala, perfect/even shaped edges every time then hand sand to final shape/form. I have made hundreds of sets this way. I just finished up 8 nice horn scales. You can sand, and with practice get them very even but when you have to make a dozen sets at a time, the mini router gets the profile set in just a few moments.

Originally Posted by cannonfodder

You can get a mini lift table that will clamp to a work bench. You can mount your rotary tool in it, get a mini router bit set for it and wala, perfect/even shaped edges every time then hand sand to final shape/form. I have made hundreds of sets this way. I just finished up 8 nice horn scales. You can sand, and with practice get them very even but when you have to make a dozen sets at a time, the mini router gets the profile set in just a few moments.

Hey CF - would you be able to post some photos of your set-up? I've heard this method described before but just can't visualise it - probably because I don't have a router at present. However, it's certainly a consideration if it works as good as you indicate.

Thanks, Rob

Something was missed here:
Remember to drill your pin holes while both scales are flat!!
And, watch what you are doing while pinning..blade in upside down....don't ask!
~Richard

Originally Posted by Geezer

Something was missed here:
Remember to drill your pin holes while both scales are flat!!
And, watch what you are doing while pinning..blade in upside down....don't ask!
~Richard

You're not the only one.

A bastard File and sandpaper is all you need.Learn to trust your eyes,the contours will turn out perfect.
My Dad was a master machinist (Gunsmith),First thing he taught me is your eye will always center.
I never measure wood or metal stock for lathe work,and I know I can get within .002 just with vision.
Same holds true with contours and Curves IMO.
If you were making scales on a production basis,than get a mini shaper,with bearing Guides.
Oh an Richard,have been there done that