[TheForge] Re: strikers

[theforge@mailman.qth.net]

Can't believe I missed the tax thread, working for the tax dept. and 
all...anyway...there have been a lot of different shapes for flint strikers 
over the years, the C shape being pretty common, also a straight bar with a 
handle-loop on one end -- looks like an upside down J -- 'course some people 
use them so they look like a regular J -- same shape.  Same are completely 
round, like a chain link.  I've seen some with a long straight section, then 
loops for finger-holds, shaped like snakes...

I've made mine in the past from leaf spring, and old files.  Files made 
better sparks, in my experience.  I heat them to the critical temp, then 
quench in water.  Have not had one break on me -- yet.  The guy I worked with 
when I was making them would draw temper on the handle, to reduce the chance 
of the striker breaking during use -- he apparently DID have one break on him 
at one point.

Jerry V

<< >CAn any one tell me about how flint strikers are made ? use carbon steel 
heta
 >treat them what I need to know all I can and yes what they look like
 >
 >Bob
 
 
 Well my strikers are made form garage door springs. I take a piece and 
 slightly flatten it. Taper the ends and do a curly-cue on each end. Then 
 bend into a 'C' shape that ends up about 4 inch tall. Heat to cherry red ( 
 or non-magnetic ) and quench in hot water.
 Then I file or sand off the closed edge of the C and test. >>