Thread: Flap wheel rotation

Thanks guys, I'm really looking forward to this project when I get time after my exams.

Graham, the top one shows correct use. Now, when you get to the face side of the blade, the heel part either has to be done left-handed or VERY carefully with the flaps rotating into the edge (I keep it well pressed into the wood so there's no lift).
One flap wheel is more than good enough for 10 blades.
I do about 2 passes with a flap wheel of one grit per blade.
Easy on the pressure.

Ah excellent Ilija.

What grits do you use for the wheels. I've seen quite a few to choose from.

What I'm thinking is that I can remove rust/staining and polish the blade all with the dremel.

Satin..
I start with 120, do 240 and finish with 400 (1.5" diameter, 0.5" thickness)
Mirror..
That's already radial bristle disc territory.. I've picked up 3/4" ones from smallparts.com (three of their highest grits). You have to use a minimum of 4 to get a good spinning "brush". That's why I picked up a dozen in each grit.

If I'm dealing with really minor surface stuff and no pitting, I just use a polishing compound and a felt disc.

That's excellent mate. Good to now know the grits I need.

This thread has filled me with a wealth of knowledge now. So glad I started it.

Thanks to all who contributed.

Another option after the 120 grit flapwheel is to start using the dremel abrasive buffs. They come in 180, 220, and 380 grit (I believe) colored tan, black, and purple respectively. I don't remember the cost comparison but I believe they are reasonably priced and I get much better control, personally.

I never had control issues with the flap wheels.
Graham.. One more tip.. Before you start with the flap wheels, use a wire brush wheel to clean the rust from the jimps on the tang. After that, you can polish the tips of the jimps with the flap wheels and get a pretty good visual effect.

I'm gonna save this thread in my favourites for future reference.

Thanks Ilija!

Glad to be of some small service