Filing ramrod pipe flats

[RAT]

Here's a tip for filing the flats on ramrod pipes.

First, clamp the pipe by the tab and file the bottom flat. I don't measure or mark the width of the flat. I just count my file strokes when making my first cuts with a course file. Make the same number of strokes on each flat.


I leave the tabs extra tall and drill a small hole at the top. Screw the tab to a piece of scrap wood to hold the pipe for filing the side flats.


Last, clamp the pipe to the oblique flat of a barrel. This places the oblique flats horizontal for filing.

[M. E. Pering]

That is actually a pretty cool technique, Bob.  Thanks for sharing it, and think I will give it a try on my next set of pipes.

Matt

[smart dog]

Hi Bob,
Very clever and useful.  Thanks.

dave

[David Price]

Just when I tight I knew it all.  Cleaver little trick.

David Price

[Long John]

Bob,

I REALLY like that!  Thanks.

JMC
John Cholin

[Tim Crosby]

 Neat tip. What's the thickness of Brass you're using?

  Thanks, Tim C.

[Craig Wilcox]

NIFTY!  I've always wondered if there were an easy method to do that.  Many thanks!

[rsells]

I too think this info is a better way to accomplish a job that I have learned to hate over the hears. Thanks for the fresh look at doing the job.
                                                                                   Roger Sells

[oldtravler61]

   Rat can't do it. Know way know how not pc, hc, rc correct... !  Well okay so it is a great idea...  Lol. Oldtravler

[RAT]

Sorry for the delay... I'm only online about once a month.

I was using mild steel .045 thick for the forward pipes. The entry pipe is .060 thick stock. I'll post pictures if I ever get this thing finished. I was hoping to get it done by December. It looks more like February.