how much will it run me?

[P.F.C.]

what is the avrage start up cost for an air graver and all to tools i will need to get started? i have been looking around but i really dont know enough about what i need to get a good price quote. i was thinking it would cost me some where near 5K just for tools and setup not inculding classes.

[SEngraver]

Originally Posted by P.F.C.

what is the avrage start up cost for an air graver and all to tools i will need to get started? i have been looking around but i really dont know enough about what i need to get a good price quote. i was thinking it would cost me some where near 5K just for tools and setup not inculding classes.

Hi PFC,

You can choose from these sets ;

http://www.airgraver.com/Hand_Engrav...graving%20Sets

Get an engraving block ;

http://www.airgraver.com/Engraving_Blocks.htm

A medium range compressor and a good strong worktop and you are ready to start I believe,
Scopes and the rest is an option .

SE

[P.F.C.]

im sure this has been covered many times now but what are the major differences between palm controle and foot control? and does the goliath vise open wide enough for a rifle action?

[Dave London]

Palm control, uses less air, no foot hand issues,easy to learn /use. Yes not cheap but the tools are a investment, I have been using my air gravers for around 10 years now and no problems, about 4 to 6 hrs a day. I believe the vice you mentioned will handle most firearms.

[P.F.C.]

awesome. thank you for the info. we had to buy two rotary tools for my wifes engraving work the first one was a low grade NSK and the second was a much better tool but i dont know the name its a 500 something or other.
i hate buy things twice and i found if you start with the best that it will serve you best.

[SEngraver]

Hi PFC,

When you buy tools always buy the best in the beginning,they will pay pay you back and more.

SE

[hobochief]

If you are looking for and engraving ball I have some used ones from $150.00 to 300.00 with attachments, also I have a simple ball vise that holds Steve"s nickel holder for $85.00 that is for NICKEL CARVING only.. Welcome to the group. We will have both the classic and palm control at the FUN SHOW in Orlando Fl july 12 thru 14th if you are in FLorida on Vacation of something. PM me for more information or see thread of show..
Archie/hobochief/Pres Original Hobo Nickel Society...

[P.F.C.]

thanks for the offer. it will be some time before i can invest in tools so far my wifes work hasnt made us enough to allow me to get started. we will probably wait until after we get taxes back in the spring that way we can get the tools and classes all at once for now i plan to work with her rotary hand piece and help her in the shop.
what are some websites i could look at to find metal to work with? all i have is blank scrap steel. where do i get silver and copper to work on?

[SEngraver]

Originally Posted by P.F.C.

thanks for the offer..
what are some websites i could look at to find metal to work with? all i have is blank scrap steel. where do i get silver and copper to work on?

Hi,

Try Ebay or ;
http://www.onlinemetals.com/merchant...owunits=inches

SE

[William47]

Do you still have the ball vice for the nickel carvings? I am interested. Willy770@bellsouth.net

[SEngraver]

Originally Posted by William47

Do you still have the ball vice for the nickel carvings? I am interested. Willy770@bellsouth.net

Hi William47,

For nickel carving ,the nickel holder is ideal ;

http://www.airgraver.com/images/Nickel-holder.jpg

Unless if you wish to use a ball vise.

SE

[Baysider]

Try Metalliferous.com, they have just about everything and the prices are very competitive, and sometimes you can catch some really good deals. I am not a professional engraver and only active for about 2 years but like everyone says you can not go wrong with Steves tools. I splurged about a year ago ans got an Artisan foot control and it made an imediate positive impact on my work. My budget is tight also my other major expense was my Pepe vise, the smallest one, and Steve's templates along with diamond stones and of course the gravers. all are adequete formy level of work and knowledge. Also found a pancake compressor on sale at Harbour frieght for $39, its loud but serves the purpose. Of course the most valuable tool/resourse is this forum, these guys are the best and ever sharingnwith their vast knowledge.

[SEngraver]

Hi,
I have tried a ball vise for nickels and sadly I must say the nickels turn in it while you are working on them,so I have requested for a nickel holder from Steve L.

SE