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c/gunsmithsamy974amy9741mo ago

A small file slip cost me a whole afternoon

Was fitting a new bolt catch and took off a tiny bit too much material. Now it doesn't engage right and I need to start over with a new part. Anyone have a trick for keeping files steady on small parts?
3 comments

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3 Comments
burns.jenny
Thirty years ago my old boss told me to treat every file stroke like it costs five dollars. The trick is never about keeping it steady, it's about stopping before you think you should. On tiny parts I always use layout dye so I can see exactly where the metal is getting removed. That mistake you made is the best teacher for knowing when a part is done, not almost done.
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brianhill
brianhill1mo ago
Call that wisdom you can't buy.
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josepha32
josepha321mo ago
Five dollars per stroke? That's unbelievable!
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