Shaping bitt heads (I think that’s the term)

[Tompslattery]

Hi does anyone have any suggestions on how to shape the circled part in the photo?

[Gregory]

Not an easy challenge for the first time, and YT's method is certainly an option..

 

Take a look at the Knight heads for Chuck's  Winchelsea build.

 

 

While the project comes with some laser cut starter pieces, imagine cutting out those shapes with small files and chisels.

A rotary tool might be useful, but requires a lot of caution because they tend to run away and cause damage.

 

Then it is a matter of fine tuning them.

[wefalck]

Cutting a template from steel certainly is an option, but may be rather challenge in itself to do. Unless you use the template as a scraper, some cardboard or a piece of styrene may be sufficient. I would draw the shape for both sides in the correct size on the computer, print it out (checking again for the correct dimensions) and glue it onto the part - then work your way up to the lines.

[Gregory]

Great advice wefalck  and YT!

 

I realize now, I should have mentioned the template.. Getting a consistent shape would make it necessary.

[Tompslattery]

Thanks everyone 

[GrandpaPhil]

I use a scalpel.  It works well for me.

 

I mark the piece with cut lines using a pencil and go from there.

[Gregory]

I think you will find most of the CNC work in the scratch build topics.

 

I think the biggest challenge for kit builders, for me anyway, regarding CNC, is getting the design of the part from the kit plans to a cutting file to drive the machine.

 

This has been true for me with my laser cutter.  I have spent more hours than I want, learning to use the software to get the kind of precision and results I want.

 

I have one of those little CNC machines that I haven't got out of the box yet.  Instead I went ahead and focused on my laser work, and it has kept me busy enough, that I haven't

been in the mood to tackle a new learning project.

 

While  most members here are always happy to help, they also want to spend their time building, and not teaching CNC  or laser cutting techniques.

They may not  get past the point where they talk about their $2,000 machine and software that is $100  monthly subscription.

 

A great example of the high end of CNC work is from a member here, HJX, is doing the CNC work for the Winchelsea kit, group project.

 

Your best resources may be another online group that is focused on CNC work.  Just because they may not be building model ships, the technique would be the same.

 

Welcome to MSW!

[mtaylor]

No CNC machine here but I have a mill.   I just haven't justified the cost of converting to CNC as I can pretty much do what I want with the CNC.  I do have a laser cutter and it's been worth the money, the learning curve, etc.  

[mtaylor]

17 hours ago, obsidean12 said:

What power is your laser?

I have a 50W tube in mine.