Engraving a chrome plated axe head

[gtsport]

I've been asked to engrave lettering on a chrome plated axe head that will be used for an award in the forestry service. I have not engraved on chrome plate, does anyone have any suggestions on how to do this or if I should pass on it?

Thanks!

Joe

 

[LahtiM39]

Don’t try to engrave on chrome or nickel plated surfaces.

 

[SamW]

The axe will likely be very tough or hard metal and the plating will chip if you can cut through it. To properly engrave a chrome plated item requires the plating (usually three layers of copper, nickel and chrome) to be removed and then perhaps re-plated after engraving which means you will lose any fine detail, The metal will be very difficult to cut.

I would pass on such a request!

 

[Martin Strolz]

Why not offer the customer to make and engrave a nice plaque (of a metal that is nice to cut and to finish) and srew or glue it onto the shaft? This would even look better than the engraving on the axe itself, and would make the whole piece look more interesting.
Cheers, Martin

 

[mitch]

I'm with Martin. A nice silver medallion or escutcheon could be easily engraved with something much nicer then attached to the axe head.

 

[gtsport]

Actually, they want the main award design on the axe head and smaller plaques on the handle for each annual recipient...also chrome. i think I will pass on this one and suggest they sandblast a design into the head for contrast. thanks for all the input!

Joe

 

[monk]

if you cut this, it will likely cause you a lot of greif. the advice above would be the way to go imho

 

[mitch]

instead of blasting, look into acid etching.

 

[Archie Woodworth]

instead of blasting, look into acid etching.

Another option ....
You might search around your area for someone with a laser (jewelers, trophy shop ect.). I had a similar request and ended up convincing the customer to go with the laser option. I know its not hand engraved but ... engraving through chrome plating is gonna be a nightmare.

 

[John B.]

Another option might be selective plating.

 

[speeedy6]

how can the chrome be removed ? I have an old gun I'd like to engrave .

 

[SamW]

The hard way...sand it off. The expensive way...find a plating business that will strip it for you.

 

[speeedy6]

Sounds like...NO WAY for a cheap gun. Thanks.

 

[quickcut07]

You could go the route of marking the handle. Be it engraved, burnt in, routed and-filled. Wire inlay could work but i myself have never tried it, but have seen some great examples on this site.
Eric