Wedge Key finish

[Jerry V Lape]

What do you do with regard to preparing the end of the wedge key?  For example on a pin I would put a small set mark in the end so the punch used to remove the pin would be held in position and not scar up the surrounding wood.  On the key, I was thinking of making a small slot on the end of the key so a mated tool could ride in the slot for the same purpose.  What are your experiences with this issue?

[rich pierce]

I've filed a shallow V in the end.

[eddillon]

I file a shallow groove.  I remove, or move in case I have a slotted key and keeper, with an appropriately sized screw driver.

[D. Taylor Sapergia]

I too cut a shallow 'v' with a safe sided triangular file.  I don't think 18th c. gunbuilders did anything to the ends of the keys/slides.  But the groove is a definite plus when you push the key out with a driver.  The English often used a v groove.

[D. Taylor Sapergia]

...and I case harden my keys.

[Jerry V Lape]

Okay, thanks for confirming my thoughts to put a groove on the key, helping with removal.  Since I am using keys without escutcheons that is even more useful.  Now D.Taylor hits me with a new requirement to learn how to case harden.  I know the general methods but have never practiced it.  So anticipate questions on case hardening once I dig around a bit to figure out an intelligent question.  Thanks for the help.