Sharpening and using hole punches.

**mr_modify1** · Aug 21, 2022, 08:34 AM

New ways to use hole punches.

**DIYer** · Aug 22, 2022, 03:37 AM

Thanks mr_modify1! We've added your Hole Punch Sharpening Method to our Sharpening category,
as well as to your builder page: mr_modify1's Homemade Tools. Your receipt:

Hole Punch Sharpening Method by mr_modify1

tags: punch, sharpening

**katy** · Aug 23, 2022, 08:59 AM

When using hole punches a lot depends on what is under the material that is being punched. I was taught to use a piece of wood w/the end grain up, other people I know use a a slab of lead.

**WmRMeyers** · Aug 23, 2022, 12:16 PM

Originally Posted by katy

When using hole punches a lot depends on what is under the material that is being punched. I was taught to use a piece of wood w/the end grain up, other people I know use a a slab of lead.

I've done both, and both for leatherwork and metalwork. A lead block, IMO, is better, as you can re-melt the lead when you feel the surface is too messy. Use wood shavings and maybe a bit paraffin wax for a flux, and skim the bits of metal or charred leather out, let it cool, and you're good to go. I use an old US GI Mess Kit with the folding handle as a mold. End grain wooden blocks work as well, except that they wear out. You can only shave them down so far before they don't work anymore.

That style. I would not use it for food service after using it to melt lead, btw. I use a Coleman stove outdoors for the heat source. Do NOT have any water around the pan when you're melting the lead, as you're likely to get a visit from what reloaders call "the Lead Fairy". I guarantee you wouldn't like that. It's called a steam explosion, and it throws molten lead all over the place.

Bill