Thread: Curious

Spine work is usually done before the blade is tempered - the metal is much softer and easier to work. That said it is possible to do it on a finished blade, it just eats the files up quicker - diamond files would be the way to go, I think.

You could use the Dremmel drum wheel, I think the coarsest grit is 60... that will eat though treated steel like butter and wont generate much heat to spoil the temper, unless you "linger" in the cut too long (if the color of the steel turns tan or blue... its toast).

Clamp the blade securily in a vice (or a "C" clamp on a 4x4 nailed to the table) and put wooden strips between the vice and the blade so you don't mar the finish on he blade with the vice jaws... hold the Dremmel with both hands and start cutting.

As usual, be cautious... eye protection... dust mask... well ventilated area... no flammable liquids such as varnish or solvent nearby... keep the kids away...

I was looking into this as well, and did a good bit of research on it.

The only problem with using a Dremel is the spinning action. Especially on an area as small as the spine of a razor, you're gonna find it very difficult to be precise. The bit will try to slide and jump around on you, and you risk messing up your design.

Here is, IMO, the best choice if you really want to get into engraving your razors

ENGRAVING TOOLS BY STEVE LINDSAY - For Hand Engraving

there is a link on this page "Inexpensive way to give it a try"

If you find the device comfortable, and that it will suit your needs, you can spend more money to get it setup so you can use an air compressor to power the graver.

I think this device would work 1000 times better than a Dremel, as it works like a jackhammer or tattoo gun. Up and down, not spinning like the Dremel.

Once I get in a position to get one setup, I would very much like to do some engraving work as well.

Hope this info helps ya a little

Oh, and they have a cheaper way of "powering" it with CO2 cartridges as well, so you don't necessarily have to buy the compressor.

That is actually a really good idea. And luckily, we have 4 air compressors already... (dad is a mechanic)

Originally Posted by DPflaumer

That is actually a really good idea. And luckily, we have 4 air compressors already... (dad is a mechanic)

You'd have to ask the company if it can be used with a regular air compressor. It doesn't have the standard hookup.

I see that they sell their own compressors that are made to be used with it (even have footpedals to run the thing like a sewing machine hehe) but I don't know if you can convert a normal compressor to work with it. Worth an email tho!

Let me know if you find out anything