screw slot files/dressing up screws

pday

October 02, 2013 02:04

Hello, does anyone know where I might buy some screw slot files and do they cut on the sides AND the top and bottom, or just on the sides? Maybe there is another way to cut the slot on these small screws deeper and dress up the sides and top. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

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  perry shooter

  October 02, 2013 02:31

  I don',t think you will find the type of Files you want,at Home depot type stores . But rather at a hobby shop or Brownell's. Yes files are made many ways some are made with all four sides with TEETH to do the cutting Others have "Safe" smooth sides on one or more surfaces.many screw heads can be peened back with VERY SMALL ball peen Hammer like a jewler would use Then put shank in a Drill chuck spin the drill and polish the head with 600 grit sand paper.This will help make the screw look better but slot will be wider than original screws.You can heat blue screws if you are careful.

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  11b6r

  October 02, 2013 05:03

  Look for a set of needle files. As said, different shape, different patter. Typically the size of a pen.
  
  Get a good set at Brownells, or a cheap set at Harbor Freight

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  Dokey

  October 02, 2013 05:03

  I find using a Dremel with the thin cut off wheel works very well for deepening and dressing up screw slots

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  asphalt cowboy

  October 02, 2013 05:10

  http://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-tools-supplies/general-gunsmith-tools/files/screw-slot-files-prod5743.aspx
  
  You will need to know what size you need.
  It's best to have both the slot file and equaling file, especially if your screw is badly molested.

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  He Dog

  October 02, 2013 17:14

  May be easier/cheaper to replace the screws.

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  pday

  October 02, 2013 17:26

  Thanks for all the help/advice. I would certainly rather replace them, but almost impossible to find...the two very small screws, one on each side of a Lyman #5 Globe sight. They are threaded for a short ways and then turn into a pin about the size of a pencil lead. I can't even find a good used one. pday

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  yblockhead

  October 02, 2013 18:37

  Starrett used to make special hack-saw blades for slotting screws. Don't know if they still carry them anymore.

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  charliemeyer007

  October 02, 2013 18:50

  So weld the damage slot closed with mild steel, a heat sink would be nice. Dress the head to proper profile and recut the slot. A pin vice with a drill press or a small lathe like a Unimat. Re-blue cold stuff will sorta work but trip in the hot salt bath shouldn't cost much if you have a local gunsmith that does that sort of work.
  
  http://www.ottofrei.com/Files-Slitting-6-Inch.html

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