Taper Drill Bits

GrimLore

Bonsai Nut alumnus... we miss you
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Looks cool but it might end up tearing the bark...angle of cut looks wrong. I like the auger type better which pushes the bark in a bit as it cuts.

I agree, what I thought what might make things a little easier was the PENCIL SHARPENER :p That is something I must at least try *wheels spinning*

Grimmy
 
Good in theory but will most likely tear up the cambium, phloem, and xylem. I'll stick with my trusty sharp knife. ;)
 
That's an interesting concept. I've dreamt of something like this before. But I'd recommend a better quality Japanese style pencil sharpener like this one. I got to use my sensei's as a student of Japanese. Perfect point. It has a clamp that keeps a pencil in place to prevent over sharpening. My only concern is that the scion would have to be woody and of certain consistency, otherwise it'll just get mutilated.
 
Ah, sorry didn't see you'd already found it. My mom has had one of the lee valley bits for many years now but I'm not sure it has been used or not, I'll have to ask.
 
Grim.

The more I think about it, the more I am leaning on staying with the old way...just a sharp grafting knife (I actually use a whittling knife). :) More cambium contact area.
 
Grim.

The more I think about it, the more I am leaning on staying with the old way...just a sharp grafting knife (I actually use a whittling knife). :) More cambium contact area.

I have been using a Stanley Utility knife for most and a standard X-ACTO gold series for tiny stuff. I usually find myself sticking the tip of the blade into a flat wood work surface and slowly pulling the Scion under the blade and shaping it. Freehand carving just does not work out for me anymore:o

Grimmy
 
I have been using a Stanley Utility knife for most and a standard X-ACTO gold series for tiny stuff.

I also use those (my Exacto is just the regular) and love the utility knife w/ disposable blades. Problem is, they are not as sturdy/rigid as I want esp for the main trunk (or big branch) work. They might not "reach" as easily too if the trunk is big. They are perfect for trimming/shaving the scion though.

IMHO, those who do not know how to properly sharpen will be better off buying the utility knife than a Masakuni grafting knife. :D
 
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I also use those (my Exacto is just the regular) and love the utility knife w/ disposable blades. Problem is, they are not as sturdy/rigid as I want esp for the main trunk (or big branch) work. They might not "reach" as easily too if the trunk is big. They are perfect for trimming/shaving the scion though.

IMHO, those who do not know how to properly sharpen will be better off buying the utility knife than a Masakuni grafting knife. :D

For the Scions those are all I use. For larger stuff I will normally grab a proper size saw and finish up with trimmers, knives, or even a Dremel on occasion. Whatever it takes and works for you is the "correct" tool. I really was put off one time by a "master" who told me I had great results but that I MUST learn to use the correct tools, geesh :rolleyes: I explained "it works for me so therefore it is the correct tool Sir" as he walked away...

Grimmy
 
For the Scions those are all I use. For larger stuff I will normally grab a proper size saw and finish up with trimmers, knives, or even a Dremel on occasion. Whatever it takes and works for you is the "correct" tool. I really was put off one time by a "master" who told me I had great results but that I MUST learn to use the correct tools, geesh :rolleyes: I explained "it works for me so therefore it is the correct tool Sir" as he walked away...

Grimmy

You are correct. Though I would also concede that most "proper" tools work better given the same mastery with them.

In woodturning, we can get all wrapped up with the best steel, profile, design, etc. but in the end of the day, if you are really good, you can turn using a sharpened butter knife if you have to (will take longer for sure). It is your artistry that will dictate the final result anyway. One person even said if you have enough time, you can shape any wood with sandpaper...while true I won't be doing that! LOL :p

I always believe in the saying;
"It is not the arrow, it is the Indian." and
"Blame the fool behind the tool." LOL
 
I always believe in the saying;
"It is not the arrow, it is the Indian." and
"Blame the fool behind the tool." LOL

Good one! The thing that irritated me is it was the proper tool at the time. Fact is it was not a Bonsai Wire Cutter, just an ultra good 50 year old wire cutter my Dad passed to me. I guess the little fella could not lift it or something :p

Grimmy
 
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