Sharpening an 81

[Arron]

Hi. I need to sharpen my Stanley 81 (scraper). I have no idea how to do it. Looking at how it was before, the best I can work out is that I should file the end flat and straight, polish and square one edge, bevel the other at about 40degrees, then roll over a hook with a burnisher. Does that sound right ?

ps. they are a wonderful tool. Buy one if you ever see one.

thanks
Arron

[holzwurm]

Have a look at these links
http://www.woodworking.org/WC/Channels/scraper.html
http://www.woodcentral.com/cgi-bin/readarticle.pl?dir=handtools&file=articles_410.shtml

regards
Rolf

[Bob Smalser]

http://www.cianperez.com/Wood/WoodDocs/Wood_How_To/INDEX_How_To.htm

http://www.brendlers.net/oldtools/scraping/scraper.htm

http://www.brendlers.net/oldtools/scraping/brnplne.gif

[derekcohen]

Arron

In addition to Bob's good links and advice, you might first try just a 45 degree bevel without a hook. If this does not cut aggressively enough, then add the hook.

Regards from Perth

Derek

[numbat]

I am interested in trying out a scraper.

Where can you buy these from?
What should you expect to pay?

I have heard of the Veritas ones as well as Sandvik. I also know that you can get rectangular ones as well as cabinet scrapers that have a range of curves.

What would a good scraper to dip ones toes in the waters be? (I hope I haven't opened a can of worms here).

Any other general rules of thumb? (I get the impression that scrapers are mainly for hardwoods - ie avoid softwoods)

Cheers