Thread: Putting out a call for help needed

I have only gone to 80 grit on the scales. And as far as the blade is concerned. I started at 60 grit and went to 2200. 4 times this way because of the damage.

I like the pins. What's wrong with them? So they are not traditional, is that a big deal.

I think the blade needs more work. I can see the sanding lines in the posted pics.

That being said, the micarta scales are too thick. IIRC, micarta is hard stuff. The scales can be thin and still retain alot of strength. Time to play with the belt sander some more ...

Originally Posted by singlewedge

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I like the pins. What's wrong with them? So they are not traditional, is that a big deal.

You asked an opinion.. I was giving mine!

No offence. I was asking a question about your thoughts of the pins.

Apologies.

I have never worked with making my own micarta however I have used tons of acrylic and polyester resin in my line of work ( prosthetic limbs). What the scales look like to me is that the fabric was not saturated enough and it looks starved. Also the blade sanding can be a real PITA I know because I have rubbed till I couldn't hold the blade anymore.
I found that using pieces of wood that resemble the shape I am working on ( if it's curved I use a dowel or something flat I use flat) and I don't move to another grit till all the sand marks from previous grits are gone. I use lots of WD40 for sanding metal.
I know it's tough when your having a hard time and your working to make a nice piece for a friend and you want everything go right. I also know that you should learn from the mistakes you made and where you can improve. This is the process of learning and yes this is a craft but it is also an art.
Some of the people who do complete restoration I know have their " razor's from hell" nightmares and they have learned from those projects too.
Hang in there and review your process's and see where you need to improve.

Originally Posted by singlewedge

No offence. I was asking a question about your thoughts of the pins.

Apologies.

Im not offended! The pins look good..but it could be better! - i have allways that perspective.."it could be better!" that what makes me improve in, almost, everything i do! .. is all about "little" details!..and in the end everything have to work has one piece!
I just wanted you to know some places to get some different pins if you wanted to.
Before you think in replace those scales..try to give them a better shape with sand paper.
..don't even think in giving up!.. we are watching you

Originally Posted by singlewedge

I like the pins. What's wrong with them? So they are not traditional, is that a big deal.

I don't think there is anything wrong with the pins, but I don't think this should be pinned yet as there is more work to do especially if you are only at 80 grit. PM me if you need help.

Go back and re-read carefully the steps I told you to do in your original post. I don't believe you have unpinned these since the original post, have you? you have been working around the blade? I don't see how these will be able to be saved unless you unpin and follow my advice from your previous post.

Aquinin that shumate looks kick ass!!! great job!

Originally Posted by Big Red

Aquinin that shumate looks kick ass!!! great job!

Thanks!! I have alot more of these coming out here soon. I am finally able to make them fast enough to give reasonable turnaround times now that my little ones are getting older.