I Hate Filing Brass....

[Tim Crosby]

 The rough shaping, removing casting marks and shaping, I understand. Shaping the facets/panels is what I am having trouble with.

    Tim
     

[TDM]

I’ll have to give scrapers on brass a try. New one on me too.

[bluenoser]

I had a problem with chatter when I tried using scrapers on brass.  I do a lot of scraping of wood and it was undoubtedly a technique issue.  Which works best on brass, square edged or hook?  Any suggestions regarding technique?

[rmnc3r]

I use a set of 180mm Diamond Files for many instances of this odious task. These work better than backed grit paper for many jobs.



https://www.amazon.com/Diamond-Handles-Professional-Quality-Sharpening/dp/B0735X9Z9H/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2BL24CFPITHWC&keywords=7+inch+diamond+file+set&qid=1699484458&refinements=p_72%3A1248909011&rnid=1248907011&s=hi&sprefix=%2Caps%2C193&sr=1-2

I use the Eze Lap Diamond Needle File 600# Fine (Red) and 240# Coourse (Purple) sets for other Jobs not suited for the above set

[Matt Evans]

Coating the file with soapstone helps keep from clogging it when filling soft metals.

[Daryl]

Dad always instructed us to use chalk.

[Waksupi]

An interesting thing I found about filing brass. I was working on a piece in my vise one morning, and the file/brass were making a chirk-chirk-chirk sound. I heard something outside, and when I looked, there was a flock of turkeys right outside, chirking right back at me. New hunting technique!

[Daryl]

  - whenever filing brass in turkey season, keep your turkey gun handy.