Tony started this thread with a simple question and it seems to have turned into a bashing session.
If a maker has “something” whether it be a product or skill that few others have it increases his marketability. It has nothing at all to do with arrogance or being selfish. I reckon you could ask a maker that is doing “roman knot” file work how to do just about anything else and he would tell you how to do it. There is no sense whatsoever in getting “pooch lipped” about it. Here is a “for instance” for ya, call Jerry Busse and ask him what makes up the INFI steel he utilizes in his knives. When he tells you to take a hike are you going to call him selfish because he won’t share? If so, then take your meds and get out of knifemaking; needle point may be a better option. Of course, when you run across something that really stumps you in that craft and “grandma” won’t tell you how to do it, there is always the option of just sitting around and drooling. (I await the replies of those who do not recognize sarcasm).
Tony, for the record, I have never done the roman knot but I agree with some of the other folks, either a drill or ball end mill, jewelers saw (possibly), and a three sided file, then you should be in business. If I can help ya give me a shout.
Curtis cmforgeknives.com