Thread: One Piece Scales - Problems and Solutions

I have a couple of suggestions on preventing splitting, that I'll try out if I decide to go wedgeless...

1) Leave a bit of extra material on the "wedge" end and trim it off once the spreading is done

2) Also gently file or sand the end of the slot to smooth it out. Maybe even rounding it off slightly, so it's not immediately visible to the naked eye could help.

Actually this tool would be the ticket.
Mitsubishi Waterjet - Free Waterjet Test Cut

#2 sounds like a particularly good idea. Sharp corners may create stress points that could case a crack to start. Maybe a rounded slot could be a good design element. Worth a try.

Originally Posted by skipnord

#2 sounds like a particularly good idea. Sharp corners may create stress points that could case a crack to start. Maybe a rounded slot could be a good design element. Worth a try.

This is true. As a carpenter I've learned to atleast slightly round sharp corners. Also it's good for your finish. Less likely to chip and gives a glancing blow.