[seagiant]

Hi,
Just checkered a Foster Commander frame.
This is my first in SS, thought the metal might be hard...
But, it was not that bad.
Have only done a few of these so still learning!

 

[41 Charlie]

That is fantastic! Awesome job!

 

[azpoolguy]

That’s looking pretty good.

One thing I have found helpful is to look at the valleys and try to make perfect squares instead of staring at the points.

Also try taking the verticals and horizontal down equally versus cutting the verticals to full depth first.

 

[Integrity Arms]

Very nice.. Hand Checkering is an art form all of its own.

 

[seagiant]

Hi,
As you can see, I cut the verticals to full depth first.

Why is it better to cut both down equally as you go???

Thanks for the tips AZ!!!

 

[1911mechanik]

The file runs smoother. If you cut deep one way, the file chatters roughly and can skip lines and cause you some issues for sure. It's easier to cut horizontal if the vertical aren't fully cut. I did the same thing in my first. I cut the vertical lines all the way and struggled to keep the horizontal on track. Good job, yours looks well done!

 

[seagiant]

The file runs smoother. If you cut deep one way, the file chatters roughly and can skip lines and cause you some issues for sure. It's easier to cut horizontal if the vertical aren't fully cut. I did the same thing in my first. I cut the vertical lines all the way and struggled to keep the horizontal on track. Good job, yours looks well done!

Hi,
Thanks I'll try that next time!
It does make sense!

 

[ZoidMeister]

Awesome work. Following along.

 

[azpoolguy]

The file runs smoother. If you cut deep one way, the file chatters roughly and can skip lines and cause you some issues for sure. It's easier to cut horizontal if the vertical aren't fully cut. I did the same thing in my first. I cut the vertical lines all the way and struggled to keep the horizontal on track. Good job, yours looks well done!

Exactly. It’s also easier to adjust for small issues.

 

[wrmiller]

This might not be for everyone, but I like to use blue dykem so I can see the depth of the rows and the points easier on 30 or 40 lpi. Especially for these old eyes.

 

[azpoolguy]

This might not be for everyone, but I like to use blue dyekum so I can see the depth of the rows and the points easier on 30 or 40 lpi. Especially for these old eyes.

I probably have lost a lot brain cells due to the amount of Dykem I use while checkering.

 

[seagiant]

Hi,
Wow!
Very nice AZ!
Admittedly I did use Dykem when I started using the pointer file to bring up the diamonds.
Might start using it from the get go to keep me straight.
You guys have given me some good ideas and I appreciate it!
Hope to "dial it in" to a more detailed job next time with these tips!

 

[seagiant]

Hi,
This is my state of the art, checkering jig/tools...
What are you guys using???

 

[41 Charlie]

Us old folks have trouble with thumb nails.

 

[azpoolguy]

I use the this checkering guide.
https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1007126669

 

[seagiant]

Us old folks have trouble with thumb nails.

Hi,
Just, left click, the pic?

 

[wrmiller]

I use the the inside of one of the vise jaws or a piece of aluminum/steel clamped between the frame and vise jaws. I just need a good reference to get started.

Once I get three or four vertical lines going that way I'm good to go and free-hand the rest. I do the horizontals free-hand as well.

 

[1911enthusist]

Did anyone ever try diagonally? Something like Stan Chen Style? Do you sand the area you are checkering first to get is more even or just go at it?

 

[seagiant]

Hi,
The Power Custom Jig that AZ uses, actually has a diagonal guide on it.

I've seen some diagonal front strap checkering on 1911's from the 50's, that actually looked pretty good!

 

[Jrock9]

I asked steve owen's about diagonal checkering not long ago if i remember he said he'd not done it but some folks do.