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Hand Scrapers:
Scrapers can finish surfaces that are impossible to plane. However, if you work too long in one area, it is hard to control the flatness of the entire surface. A Scraping Plane is useful to use in combination with Hand Scrapers. Work difficult areas with the Hand Scrapers as needed; keep the surface flat with the scraping plane.
The thinner blade (.020") is quite flexible, and is great for scraping shorter, complex surfaces. The thicker blade (.032") will take a heavier cut, and is best for larger surfaces.
Burnishing:
Before you use the scraper, it is helpful, but not absolutely necessary, to turn a burr on the edges. Use of a burr will give more aggressive cutting action.
To create a burr, hold the scraper upright in a vise. Use a burnisher and begin by holding the burnisher at 90° to the blade, decreasing the angle with successive passes. Work the edge until you can feel a distinct ‘hook’ all the way across. Be very careful not to cut yourself on the upright scraper.
Re-Sharpening:
When re-sharpening, first hone the old burr off, then square the edge with a stone or file, and repeat the burnishing process. You can usually re-burnish a few times before it becomes necessary to square the edge.
Materials:
Lie-Nielsen Hand Scrapers are made from premium, high carbon Swedish Tool Steel, hardened and tempered to Rockwell 49-51. They will take a burr well and last a long time. The long sides have been ground square. If you wish to use the short sides, file square before burnishing.
Maintenance:
The scrapers are made of Steel and will rust. Keep them lightly oiled and wrapped in cloth or treated paper when storing the scrapers between uses. We recommend Jojoba Oil, a plant based oil product that is non-toxic, odor-free and easy to use. Also, in our shop, we use a fine abrasive handblock to remove any light surface oxide from tool bodies and blades. Jojoba Oil and abrasive handblocks are available from us.
Guarantee:
Materials and workmanship are guaranteed for the life of your tool. Call for repairs or replacement parts. We are available for advice if you ever have a problem using your tool.