I'd like to make some scratch awls

[JoeyGee]

I'd like to make some scratch awls. I have zero knowledge of metals. Can I simply use a piece of round bar stock and grind a point on it? Would it stay relatively sharp without sharpening it a lot?

[leehljp]

I almost went that route last summer, then decided I didn't want to fool with tempering it. Proper tempering is not too difficult with experience, but I don't have the experience! I ended up ordering a couple of Stanley's from Ebay for just over $6.00 each, and that including shipping.

I still would like to make one, just to say that I did!

[JoeyGee]

Right, they are cheap, but like you, I like the idea of making it myself.

I think I'll just compromise and buy a couple cheap ones, remove the handles and make my own replacement handles.

[cwsmith]

I think it's a bit like making knives... while I don't know much about that either, I had a friend who was very good at it. It isn't just a matter of tempering, though I remember that's not particularly hard to do, it has much to do with picking the right kind of steel. Some steels are softer than others and simply wouldn't hold the point or be ridgid enough to keep from bending.

In the case of a good knife or perhaps a good awl, I think you'd want a rod that is higher in carbon, yet not so much as to be brittle. If I was to approach such a project, I think I'd have to do a bit of research first and/or at least consult a knowledgeable supplier who could recommend something.

With regard to tempering, I remember (vaguely after several decades) that one heats the steel with a torch (more like a blow-torch) until you get the right color advancing on the tip. (Blue, straw, etc.) I made a screwdriver in highschool metal shop and vaguely remember the procedure for tempering it.

CWS

[Daryl]

I think you could probably use a piece of high speed steel drill rod. If you didn't over heat it while grinding it to shape it wouldn't need any heat treatment. I like the General brand, cheap and the blade goes thru the handle so they can take a few hits when necessary

[capncarl]

Joe, you said you know nothing about metal.... So I assume you will not be using this scratch awl on metal? Just wood? If that is the case you probably will not need to temper it.

[JoeyGee]

Yes, just wood. Maybe some occasional Lexan/Plexiglass. Obviously not harder than wood.

[capncarl]

If you don't want to buy metal, a donor Phillips screwdriver could be sawed off and sharpened. It's probably better steel that just a piece of round bar or cold rolled you would buy at the big box store. My favorite awl is actually a Craftsman screwdriver awl, probably reworked screwdrivers they messed up in the factory.

[Whaler]

I made one several years ago using a kit that I picked up at Rockler.


The only kit that seems to be out there now is a chrome one from Bear Tooth Woods.
http://www.beartoothwoods.com/catalo...oducts_id=2072

[LCHIEN]

I bought mine... no lathe.
http://www.highlandwoodworking.com/garnishawllarge.aspx

Japanese awls. I got a large and a small.
Highland Woodworking, nice quality, reasonable price. Can't make one for that little money.

[leehljp]

I bought mine... no lathe.
http://www.highlandwoodworking.com/garnishawllarge.aspx
[ATTACH=CONFIG]22540[/ATTACH]
I got a large and a small.
Highland woodworking nice quality, reasonable price. Can't make one for that little money.

I used to see those in the home centers and local hardware stores in Japan for 600 - 800 yen, or $5.00 - $7.00. Wish I had bought more. I think I still have two, somewhere in my pen turning tools!


WHALER: That is absolutely beautiful. All tools should be that nice looking!

[Whaler]

I used to see those in the home centers and local hardware stores in Japan for 600 - 800 yen, or $5.00 - $7.00. Wish I had bought more. I think I still have two, somewhere in my pen turning tools!


WHALER: That is absolutely beautiful. All tools should be that nice looking!

Thanks Hank. It doesn't work any better than a cheap one from HD but I have the satisfaction of making it.

[JoeyGee]

Exactly, Dick. I know I can get one from HF for $4, but I want the satisfaction of making one, at least the handle.

PSI used to have one, but I went to order it and it was gone. Must not be hot sellers because it is cheaper to just buy one.

[Whaler]

Exactly, Dick. I know I can get one from HF for $4, but I want the satisfaction of making one, at least the handle.

PSI used to have one, but I went to order it and it was gone. Must not be hot sellers because it is cheaper to just buy one.

Joey, here is a link to one at Bear Tooth Woods. He is a great guy to deal with. http://www.beartoothwoods.com/catalo...oducts_id=2072

[JoeyGee]

Thanks.