Want to try checkering handgun grips, Help?

[toolmaker]

Am an experienced woodworker and toolmaker. I understand cutting tool theory well and have done carving on wood many times. I'd like to try checkering with a simple, inexpensive hand checkering set, but need help please choosing a small set from mailorder house. How many lines per inch for a beginner? Is the method of use pretty obvious? I'd rather not have to buy a video or textbook if possible. Just want to do it for me. Thanks.

 

[timuchin]

Lpi depends largely on...

the type of wood being used. Soft pine will obviously not hold up as well with fine checkering as white oak. It also depends on where you are checkering on the grip and personal taste. As for the cutting, it's the layout that is important. Get the edges straight, and everything is gravy. Screw the edges up, and it will look like crap. And you're never checkering the side of the stock where it is relatively flat. Oh no. Always on the compound curves of the wrist. It can be frustrating, but is not difficult in any way. Good luck!

 

[toolmaker]

Hardwoods exclusively, such as walnut (of course) and maybe some exotics. Would 20 LPI be appropriate? Thanks.

 

[mete]

That's right about the wood ,even walnut will vary considerably depending where it's grown.20 lines per inch is perhaps the most practical.The layout is important especially on curved surfaces. Full checkering on a rifles pistol grip is for the experienced only. As a beginner stick to just practical designs and practice on scrap pieces.A comfortable chair and good lighting helps.Use a brush to clean off the sawdust often.It's also better if you have finish on the wood and after checkering put finish on it making sure the the finish doesn't collect [thin out the finish].

 

[timuchin]

20 lpi sounds good...

maybe even consider 18 on softer hardwoods like walnut. The harder the wood, the longer the checkering will stay sharp. Practice with the type of wood you are going to use is pretty important. Checkering is really more of a craft than a science. The checkering tools that Brownell's carries (Dem-Bart brand) have interchangeable heads. The handle runs about 5 or 6 bucks, and the cutters are roughly the same.

 

[toolmaker]

Thanks to all. I think I'll go with 18 LPI. Shall order a small set soon.