Engraving equipment

[anamostis450]

Hi all!
I just received the pack with the engravers. Different profiles, HSS material, a second pack with diamond wheels will arrive soon.
I'm thinking for the future to buy (or build) a pneumatic engraver, for now I would like to start the classic way with hammer.

I would ask you kindly, if someone has experience in engraving, which kind of holder and chasing hammer are good.

For the holder I saw the common wooden short mushroom handle, or a long stick (12\15cm lenght), I remember someone used golf balls also, like file.

Talking about chasing hammers, do you think a stainless or normal steel not hardened should be fine for the work? I noticed the hammers are from 30 to 40 gram (1- 1,5 oz). I saw even something in brass, Maybe could be a right choice? One face round ball and the other flat but round (I don't remember the eng name of curved surface).
I have to think a good way also for a vice, I found some interesting project here!

Any advice welcome Thanks!

hi: i've been in the engraving pursuit for a bit over 40 years. by hand, pantograph, cnc, as well as laser. i can answer a bookload of questions about all the disciplines one needs to master to become proficient in the art. one can succeed with almost no money, or one can spend a truckload on a pursuit they may soon forget due to the difficulties encountered by a newbie. suprizingly, with little outlay, one can make most of what is needed with goodies layin around your shop. if you're a machinist that's a plus.' once i learn how to upload fotos, i have a lot to share with a newbie. to efficiently help you , i'd need a bit of info on you. are you a machinist, woodworker, artist, etc, etc. i'm not up to speed yet here on the rules of engagement. once i am, i have some fotos that would give you ideas to work on.