Draw Filing Woes

[PeteDavis]

I am trying to draw file my NOS CVA barrel. Even when I load the fine file with chalk it pushes up filings that embed and seriously scar the metal.

I'd have been better off sanding and browning.

Any advice? I am drawing in a single stroke and not too heavy.

PD

 

[Flint311]

Are you using a file card after every pass? Check the file when it leaves the barrel and get every chip out.

 

[MikeyC]

What grade of file are you using?
Sounds like it could be to fine.

 

[PeteDavis]

It's a fine nicholson single cut file. 12". Ought it be coarser?

 

[MikeyC]

If it's what they call a "mill file" in single cut it should be OK.
Look at Nicholson's catalog and find out exactly what you have. A single cut mill file comes in bastard, second, and smooth cut. I generally just use a second cut. Light pressure.
Mike C.

 

[MikeyC]

And like Flint311 says, card it often. If the file teeth are really small, a small stainless brush might do better then an actual file card.
Mike C.

 

[PeteDavis]

Thanks to all for the informative comments.

I was able to file out my errors, with WD40, then sand with auto body paper down to fine which was 50% finer than the old CVA machining marks. Then a heavy acetone bath and now LMF browning. I plan a rough brown so will go a half day between apps.

PD
PD

 

[kaintuck]

start with the BOTTOM flat 1st to learn your file and technique~ ALL files will scratch if only ONE little metal bit gets caught~and pressing down to hard, it's kinda like hand sawing....let the tool do the work, your just there to guide it along~~~~

 

[nymtber]

Nicholson 10" Mill Bastard file. Chalk it up, and only use ONE area on each chalking ONCE, then move the file over to a FRESH spot. Card once you get to the end of the file.

Its tedious, but I got no major gouges doing it this way. Top that off with 220grit wet/dry and its ready for blueing or browning.

Worked for me! :thumbsup:

 

[smil]

If you clog and scratch that fast you were using too much pressure into the metal. All you do is move and control the file across the part, it does the cutting without forcing it.