I suffer from the dreadful stuff to. All of the machine shops, military, oilfield work, construction so I have said the heck with it and turn on the stereo and when I listen to my stereo the whole neighborhood gets to listen to. No tinnitus problem then
In both of the worlds of engraving and gemstones cheap is just that cheap, it seldom holds up and invested money and time will lost forever. Both worlds use the same type of laps cutting and polishing.
I literally use it as designed ( it is a rayshaw tech ), along with a GRS 105 degree and stand. If I want mirrored polish on my bits that's what I get. I am Totally able to reproduce my my graver perfectly
It looks like you have found one of the perfect user materials. Check out your local pawn shop for used knives, good quality used folder knifes can often be bought for 2 - 15 dollar's, I like Kershaw, Case, and Buck in that order. My belief is if you what to practice why not develop your self on...
I personally think that removing the company logo will devalue the firearm significantly and that the engraving should incorporate and flow with the logo,
Loads of assum videos on utube. To me the most important tool is a rock solid ball vise, at least 20 pounds. Loads and loads of practice plates, start out with copper. You will need to learn to sharpen your bits. Dull bits equal crap results. This skill requires a very large learning curve as...
Fantastic answer, you have touched each base of this question and supported them with the highest vaule item that any engraver should strive to obtain.