Draw filing 101

Summary

In this video, the host explains the process of draw filing, offering tips to avoid gouges and achieve a smooth, flat blade finish. By keeping the file and blade clean of filings or swarth, users can prevent imperfections. The host emphasizes using the right-hand push and left-hand pull technique for efficient material removal. Draw filing is presented as a more effective method compared to hand sanding, delivering superior results with a consistent, smooth surface. The video provides clear guidance for achieving a professional finish on blades with minimal effort.

Takeaways

• 😀 Keep your file and blade clean from swarf (filings) to avoid gouges and achieve a smooth finish.
• 😀 Regular cleaning of the file and blade is crucial to prevent large gouges during draw filing.
• 😀 By keeping the tool clean, you can achieve a nice finish similar to hand sanding with a 180 to 220 grit.
• 😀 Proper hand positioning is key: right hand pushes tangs in the right direction, and left hand pulls tangs in the left.
• 😀 Consistent cleaning and careful technique ensure an even, smooth surface when draw filing.
• 😀 Removing material with a file is more efficient than hand sanding, as it removes twice the amount of material.
• 😀 A flat and even approach while draw filing helps to maintain the blade’s consistency and prevents mistakes.
• 😀 Draw filing can be an effective method to get a smooth finish on a blade when done with the right technique.
• 😀 Keeping the work surface flat during filing allows for better control and a more uniform result.
• 😀 Draw filing is a skill that improves with practice, especially as the technique becomes second nature.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video?

The video focuses on demonstrating how to properly use a draw filing technique to avoid gouges and achieve a smooth, flat finish on a blade.

What is draw filing, and why is it useful?

Draw filing is a technique used in metalworking to smooth and flatten a surface using a file, with strokes that move perpendicular to the length of the workpiece. It's useful because it helps achieve a clean, even finish without gouging.

Why did the presenter mention that his friend was getting gouges?

The presenter mentioned this to highlight a common problem when draw filing, which is caused by not keeping the file and blade clean of swarth (filings), leading to uneven results and gouges.

What can be done to avoid gouging when using a file?

To avoid gouging, it's important to keep the file and blade clean of swarth. Regularly cleaning the file ensures smooth, consistent strokes that prevent the material from getting caught and causing gouges.

What is the significance of the 180 to 220 grit mentioned in the video?

The 180 to 220 grit range refers to the fineness of the file or sandpaper used for finishing. This range helps in achieving a smooth and flat blade surface, making it easier to obtain a high-quality finish.

What does the presenter mean by 'every stroke I keep it clean'?

This means that the presenter is continuously cleaning the file after each stroke to ensure it stays free of swarth, thus maintaining an even and efficient filing process.

How does the presenter compare draw filing to hand sanding?

The presenter points out that by using draw filing, they are able to remove twice as much material compared to hand sanding, while also maintaining a flatter and more even finish.

What is the correct hand positioning when using a file as described in the video?

According to the video, the right hand pushes the file, and the left hand pulls it, ensuring the proper technique for controlled, effective filing.

How does the draw filing technique affect the material removal process?

Draw filing allows for more controlled material removal because of the clean, consistent strokes and the even pressure applied during the process, resulting in a smoother finish.

What is the overall result of using the draw filing technique correctly?

When done correctly, draw filing leads to a smooth, flat surface on the blade, helping achieve a professional-quality finish without the unevenness or gouges that can occur with improper technique.