Excited to be here! Hello from SoCal

[Mudman]

Hello everyone,

My name is Gary.
Just wanted to share a few details about myself, as I am new here.

I've always had an interest in engraving, but never had enough motivation- due to a fear of not being any good.
Ten years have passed, and I have not started. But three days ago, I felt it was time to begin- but not without first researching.

I am hoping to gain much insight and tips here. My main interest was engraving in wood, however it would be great to customize my own firearm someday.

Hopefully with some reading, I can learn and slowly build a list of must have tools prior to starting.

[chickenscratcher]

Hello Gary. If you want to try to engrave check on what the tools look like in Steve Lindsays tools and in GRS tools. You need only one graver to try it and and good sharpening stone and very fine sand paper (1200 -2000 grit) to polish the point. Just like sharpening a chisel or a knife it will take practice to get a good point but it's done. Get the square graver and use the info here on the foum and Steve Lindsays info and just see that with time and practice you can cut the metal. It's easy but then again not that easy or we wouldn't be so proud of the works we do. GET STARTED. chickenscratcher

[rbaptiste]

Welcome Gary

[Cookie]

Hello Gary,
I too am new to hand engraving . Motivation is different for each of us. I have had a very small amount of time in using the graver. When I have used a properly sharpened graver and moved into the metal it was amazing! That was the best motivation for me . Fundamentals are all important . You will find it all here. Steve

[engraver1949]

What part of California are you located. I'm in Lancaster .. north Los Angeles county. Be glad to help you.

[DanDringenberg]

I am in covina cal. Can help with some tools.
I am learning myself. But will do what I can to help.