Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Around the Campfire => Topic started by: NCtrucker87 on September 25, 2011, 03:10:27 am

Title: Rasp question
Post by: NCtrucker87 on September 25, 2011, 03:10:27 am
Im about to take on my first self bow, getting my tools and materials gathered now. I'm looking for a good raspto use. From what ive read the ones to get are the Nicholson 49 and 50. Heres the issue, Im kinda strapped for cash dont want to spend $70 on 2 files. If I were to only buy one atm, which would you think would be better, the 49 or the 50, or a different raspall together. Thanks alot for any input.
Title: Re: Rasp question
Post by: Pat B on September 25, 2011, 03:27:32 am
I have a #49 and like it. I believe it is a bit corser than the #50.   If you know a farrier get one of his used rasps. They usually give them away. I think you can buy one for about $15. Also a 4n1 rasp is hard to beat and was one of my first. Buy them almost anywhere.
Title: Re: Rasp question
Post by: Lee Slikkers on September 25, 2011, 03:35:26 am
I ran into the same $ issue when I jumped in with both feet...I picked up a Shinto Rasp and have never regretted it.  I've used those high dollar rasps and they are fine but I probably do 90% of my bow work with my Shinto and my scrapers.  Good luck~
Title: Re: Rasp question
Post by: Pat B on September 25, 2011, 12:38:03 pm
Lee, where do you get a Shinto rasp?
Title: Re: Rasp question
Post by: johnston on September 25, 2011, 12:44:17 pm
PatB is correct as usual. Got an old rasp from my farrier and liked it so well I bought a new one at Tractor Supply for around $24. Have seen China made rasps for $ 10 at my feed store.

You really don't need a whole bunch of tools to make a bow. Draw knife, Stanley Shurform and a coarse file are my main tools. 

Lane
Title: Re: Rasp question
Post by: Postman on September 25, 2011, 12:57:39 pm
I agree with johnston - I'm sure the nicholsons are great, but I'd use that money for something else straight off. You can get by with a cheap 4-in one rasp for awhile. The shurform is a cheap effective wood hog. Just be careful of the grain direction - they can tear out fibers if you get too aggressive. Never used a farrier but looking for one.

Make sure your drawknife is good, tho ;)

Good luck!
Title: Re: Rasp question
Post by: hillbilly61 on September 25, 2011, 01:07:55 pm
When out farrier come to do our horses he brings that he no longer uses. He says they are to dull. I hate to think what he thinks sharp :oAny way He just gives them to me. Maybe find a farrier and ask him.
Title: Re: Rasp question
Post by: Lee Slikkers on September 25, 2011, 01:35:28 pm
Lee, where do you get a Shinto rasp?

Hey Pat, Amazon carries them as does JapaneseWoodWorker or Woodcraft.  They are a "flat" rasp but they are quite a bit different and a solid, hard bodied rasp...they don't clog up and they have a coarse side and a fine side.  I know I'd have to relearn bow making if I couldn't use mine.  Good luck and if you purchase one let me know how you like it.
Title: Re: Rasp question
Post by: crooketarrow on September 25, 2011, 03:05:52 pm
  You can pick yp old rasps at flea markets. If see a nice on I can uselly pick it up for a dollor or 3.
Title: Re: Rasp question
Post by: NCtrucker87 on September 25, 2011, 09:13:20 pm
Thanks for all the info guys, I really appreciate it. I think Im going to just try to get one those stanley shurforms and get by with it for the being. Thanks again!
Title: Re: Rasp question
Post by: mullet on September 25, 2011, 09:49:51 pm
 Pat;

 I've got a new Shinto Rasp I've never used.
Title: Re: Rasp question
Post by: NCtrucker87 on September 25, 2011, 11:31:30 pm
Pat;

 I've got a new Shinto Rasp I've never used.

What size is it and what are you looking to get for it, including shipping. =)
Title: Re: Rasp question
Post by: mullet on September 26, 2011, 09:53:08 am
It's Pat's, now.
Title: Re: Rasp question
Post by: Postman on September 28, 2011, 02:44:27 pm
I see 9" and 11"  shintos for sale - is the 9" big enough in y'alls opinion?
Title: Re: Rasp question
Post by: NCtrucker87 on October 05, 2011, 12:34:17 am
I ordered an 11".
Title: Re: Rasp question
Post by: Hillbilly on October 06, 2011, 03:01:35 am
A new farrier's rasp for about $25 is one of the best investments you'll ever make. It's a serious wood removal tool, and get one with the finer file side on the back for more precise work. I have a Nicholson #49, but mostly just use it for shaping fades and handles.