ed4copies
Local Chapter Manager
Here's the scenario: Christmas is coming, so I decided to make a few Jr. Gent ballpoints in BOW. I have quite a few blanks, so I'm off and running.
Well, short version of the story: First one--BEAUTIFUL!! CA finish is impeccable, mount the hardware and CRACK, the clip makes a severe crack in the upper barrel---throw that one out, learn something--recover the parts from the "already assembled" bottom.
Now, the second and third (I learned not to do ONE at a time), again all goes pretty well with the CA over BOW (I always hold my breath) and I get to assembly. File out the inside of the bottom barrel, install the components three-quarters of the way with my hands, then take everything out and apply epoxy and put it back together (successfully!!). Get to the top and find the clip holder "mic's" at .004 larger than the hole. Again, do some filing and finally, I have .002 difference between the hole and the fitting, on both the centerband and the clip.
It is at this point I realize I don't KNOW what I WANT!!! What is the OPTIMUM??? As Russ has said, CA won't forgive or stretch. So, MUST we epoxy the parts together???
Has anyone actually figured out what we NEED to hold the parts in place, but NOT crack wood or it's finish???
I did insert them (with epoxy) at the .002 difference, and it worked. Should I now accept this as the way to avoid cracks? Or have some of you "wood guys" got a better suggestion???
Thanks for you input!! My wood supply can't afford many errors!!
Well, short version of the story: First one--BEAUTIFUL!! CA finish is impeccable, mount the hardware and CRACK, the clip makes a severe crack in the upper barrel---throw that one out, learn something--recover the parts from the "already assembled" bottom.
Now, the second and third (I learned not to do ONE at a time), again all goes pretty well with the CA over BOW (I always hold my breath) and I get to assembly. File out the inside of the bottom barrel, install the components three-quarters of the way with my hands, then take everything out and apply epoxy and put it back together (successfully!!). Get to the top and find the clip holder "mic's" at .004 larger than the hole. Again, do some filing and finally, I have .002 difference between the hole and the fitting, on both the centerband and the clip.
It is at this point I realize I don't KNOW what I WANT!!! What is the OPTIMUM??? As Russ has said, CA won't forgive or stretch. So, MUST we epoxy the parts together???
Has anyone actually figured out what we NEED to hold the parts in place, but NOT crack wood or it's finish???
I did insert them (with epoxy) at the .002 difference, and it worked. Should I now accept this as the way to avoid cracks? Or have some of you "wood guys" got a better suggestion???
Thanks for you input!! My wood supply can't afford many errors!!