Jimping Preferences?

tkroenlein

tkroenlein

Well-Known Member
I'm going to add jimping to my knaf making. Just curious what folks prefer across the various styles. Part of me says grab a checkering file and have at it. But my pragmatic side thinks it ain't that simple. I think I like smaller, finer jimping round or V shaped either way.

What say you?
 
I use a checkering file as well. I tried 3 different files and settled on the most lines per inch, I think it was 30? Maybe 50? I just liked that it was barely there, but still added quite a good amount of grip.
 
I had difficulty with the checkered file. I couldn’t get that first bite. Is there a technique. It was before I heat treated it.
 
Personally, I think that jimping, well done with a checkering file, are the best of usability, comfort, and professional looking. I've seen a lot of folks use small round and/or chainsaw files... These are often very uncomfortable, and personally I think they look pretty horrible.

Checkering files require a slow and deliberate approach. I always start out with the file tilted slightly, to get 2-3 teeth to "cut in", then gradually flatten out the file strokes until a full width cut "path" is established. Then overlap the cuts, 2-3 teeth, as a guide. Again.... SLOW and EASY. If you try to get after it too fast and hard....that's when you have a train wreck. ;)
 
Mark, I use a file guide and start mine on the spine edge going lightly. Then after those are done I use one or two of the end of the finished as my spacing guide. Take your time.
 
I use a Grobet 20 line per inch file and use the same technique of starting with the file tilted and then slowly flattening it out.
I also like to use a file guide to help me get started without muffing it.
 
I use the Grobet one listed above and I like to go back after said jimping and sand the edges of the spine down where the jimping is located. I just like the way it looks. I think I stole that idea from John Doyle.
 
The jimping I've done leaves the peak (top) flat rather than a sharp point. I'm using a Glardon Vallorbe #00 file.
Should the jimping peaks be sharp or flat?

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I also use a grobet 20 lpi checkering file. And I also do as Ed does, tilt the file to get my initial lines, then flatten it out and use the initial lines as guides to seat the file in.
 
JeremyBartlett said:
I also use a grobet 20 lpi checkering file. And I also do as Ed does, tilt the file to get my initial lines, then flatten it out and use the initial lines as guides to seat the file in.
Click to expand...
I also use this file. Works great prior to heat treat.
 
Any more I do one 20 cut with a 5/32 half round on either side. It just feels more secure to me. When I wear this 20 cut out I have a 30 cut Grommet waiting to try. I do initial cut at angle to start then lay across blade to cut down.
 
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