They really and almost magical for how effective they are. I think I've had my original set for at least 8-10 years and I do a lot of tool restoration (though I do also use a non-woven abrasive "deburring wheel" on a bench grinder for big jobs).
I will say to be mindful of the grit that is shed from the block during use. It can make for an abrasive mess on the bench before you realize, so use it in a contained area. I also usually brush the tool off before oiling it to minimize transferring any grit to the rag.
I've been using Camellia oil with a rag in a can lately. This summer has been hot and humid and my shop does not have temperature control. I've found that the camellia has gone all gummy on a bunch of tools. I used some grey scotchbrite to clean it off and started using a cloth with a mixture of WD-40 and 3 in 1. Have you heard of Camellia going gummy? Did I just get a bad batch?
Scott, my tools do the same with camellia oil, and I have the same shop setup. It's hot and humid, even with two dehumidifiers running and fans. I’ve tried several brands of camellia oil, so I assume that is just the nature of it with temperature fluctuations.
A good mix of whatever oils I have lying around and normal use seems to ungum everything.
They really do last forever. I acquired my set shortly after the earth's crust cooled, and the only block I've worn out so far is the coarse block. It's remnants are useful for getting into tight areas when restoring an old tool, and I have a lot old tools. And also, lots of northern Ohio humidity.
My "shop" is outside. I've got my tools in a Dutch tool chest now, but for a long time, they were just in an old crate I repurposed. Living in Georgia, where we have ridiculously high humidity, I'm always worried about rust, especially as my ADHD may pull me away from woodworking.
These might be just the ticket for me.
Then again, I really need to oil them when done, too.
I have used the Sandflex product for years and completely agree with Meghan's comments.
As far as using on wood based on the crumbs the pads leave behind i would doubt it would be useful on wood. It may be you are comparing to a different product.
I have cleaned up quite a few non woodworking tools for friends who were amazed at how quickly the rust was removed and actually liked the patina disappearing .
'Always'lightly oil your tools when done. I keep a baggie with a lightly oiled cloth in my non- woodworking tool box and another in the area where I store my woodworking tools.
They really and almost magical for how effective they are. I think I've had my original set for at least 8-10 years and I do a lot of tool restoration (though I do also use a non-woven abrasive "deburring wheel" on a bench grinder for big jobs).
I will say to be mindful of the grit that is shed from the block during use. It can make for an abrasive mess on the bench before you realize, so use it in a contained area. I also usually brush the tool off before oiling it to minimize transferring any grit to the rag.
They really are magic erasers for metal.
I've been using Camellia oil with a rag in a can lately. This summer has been hot and humid and my shop does not have temperature control. I've found that the camellia has gone all gummy on a bunch of tools. I used some grey scotchbrite to clean it off and started using a cloth with a mixture of WD-40 and 3 in 1. Have you heard of Camellia going gummy? Did I just get a bad batch?
Scott, my tools do the same with camellia oil, and I have the same shop setup. It's hot and humid, even with two dehumidifiers running and fans. I’ve tried several brands of camellia oil, so I assume that is just the nature of it with temperature fluctuations.
A good mix of whatever oils I have lying around and normal use seems to ungum everything.
I just used mine yesterday to clean up a set Record 044 irons. They really are magical.
They really do last forever. I acquired my set shortly after the earth's crust cooled, and the only block I've worn out so far is the coarse block. It's remnants are useful for getting into tight areas when restoring an old tool, and I have a lot old tools. And also, lots of northern Ohio humidity.
My "shop" is outside. I've got my tools in a Dutch tool chest now, but for a long time, they were just in an old crate I repurposed. Living in Georgia, where we have ridiculously high humidity, I'm always worried about rust, especially as my ADHD may pull me away from woodworking.
These might be just the ticket for me.
Then again, I really need to oil them when done, too.
Interesting. I thought the Sandflex blocks were for wood. Do you ever use them with wood?
I have used the Sandflex product for years and completely agree with Meghan's comments.
As far as using on wood based on the crumbs the pads leave behind i would doubt it would be useful on wood. It may be you are comparing to a different product.
I have cleaned up quite a few non woodworking tools for friends who were amazed at how quickly the rust was removed and actually liked the patina disappearing .
'Always'lightly oil your tools when done. I keep a baggie with a lightly oiled cloth in my non- woodworking tool box and another in the area where I store my woodworking tools.