Anyone have used checkering tools?

worn out cutters will only cause you grief and frustration. KV woodcarving supplies in the maritimes can help you out. dull cutters will skip, and not track as well. will take a lot longer to cut. got the T shirt. checkering takes a lot of time, and preparatory planning is key. good lighting and keep the cutter perpendicular to the surface, light pressure, will get you there. cleaning up checkering on an old beater stock is a good way to start. enjoy the journey.
 
If you get doubles, you have to know what spacing you are going with, 16 l.p.i.is a good start
They don't cost a lot, you can buy sets or just one or two, if you get started , buy extra cutters.
I for get name, In Winnipeg there is a parts dealer that has been around for years, where I got mine
 
Buy new cutters, make your own handles.

A worn out screwdriver, a hacksaw, a file, and a small drill bit.

A propane torch is helpful if the shank of the screwdriver is brittle enough to snap when bent.

You can buy a bunch of cutters for the price of a couple handles from Dembart or whoever.

You could do lots worse, than to find a copy of Gunstock Checkering and Carving by Monty Kennedy. Lots of good info from several experts, and lots of info on making your own tools. Lots of pictures of everything from basic to really ornate jobs done, too.
 
I bought a full set of Dembart beginners checkering tools from William's Arms a few years ago. Think the set was around $40 IIRC.
Scott...
 
Go to a couple of gun shows / check the internet auction sites. I have a puchased virtually all of my equipment that way and I have only bought a couple of key items new.

I wasted some $$ on buying a set that really were much more worn that the photo showed, but its was cheap anyway so no real loss.

Its a real skill, and really satisfying when it all works out. Do 2-3 beaters (again bought from gun shows) and you should know whether or not is for you by then.

Candocad.
 
trevj said:
Buy new cutters, make your own handles.

A worn out screwdriver, a hacksaw, a file, and a small drill bit.

A propane torch is helpful if the shank of the screwdriver is brittle enough to snap when bent.

You can buy a bunch of cutters for the price of a couple handles from Dembart or whoever.

You could do lots worse, than to find a copy of Gunstock Checkering and Carving by Monty Kennedy. Lots of good info from several experts, and lots of info on making your own tools. Lots of pictures of everything from basic to really ornate jobs done, too.
Click to expand...

+1 on that.

If you have a metal supply near you you can grab some tool steel rod.... I think I got about 3 feet of 1/4" 01 rod for about $7 .... cut/file/etc... then if you are feeling ambitious, you can harden it with a propane torch & some old motor oil
 
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