Useful tools

[graycrait]

I didn't like my awl and my grommet guide when replacing grommets was a tiny hex key so I went looking for something else. This pair of twist chuck pin vices cost about 9.00 each. I didn't need two but what the heck. In one is a 16gauge blunt nose darning/yarn needle and it replaces the hex key. It also is now my finder awl to open up tie off grommet space for stringing ashaway kevlar. The other holds a 9/64 (3.55mm) drill bit that is remarkably efficient at grinding out individual grommets to replace with Fittex grommets.

The blunt nose darning needles come in various gauges and unlike an awl are the same diameter throughout the length so work great as grommet guides or "finder" awl.

This pin vice can accomodate a wide variety of sized bits, needles, RC car 2.00mm axle (makes a nice sized firm but flexible tool), nails, "modified" round needle files, etc.

 

[Irvin]

Where did you get them?

 

[graycrait]

Where did you get them?

Go to the big A site and search for:
Smart Fun Precision Pin Vise Model Hand Drill Set Micro Twist Drill Bits Rotary Tools

The drill bits that came with it I tossed in a drawer for some future project where I don't care if I abuse them, I have some better bits that work great for grommets.

 

[loosegroove]

Yeah, I was considering picking one of those up, but never ended up installing fittex grommets in my old racket. You can also order them on the big auction site for about 1/3 of the price. You just have to wait for shipping from overseas.

 

[graycrait]

Just did a scan of the big E auction site, $5.66 lowest price shipping free from China.

Last item I ordered from the the big E from China was 1000ft of 1.10mm 250# tensile strength braided Kevlar string. It took 2 weeks to arrive and is unsuitable in its present state to use as tennis string. But it is raining so may try and string some. I either have a lifetime's supply of good strong household string, need to get into fighting kites or maybe use some as a compact canoe anchor line.

 

[loosegroove]

Just did a scan of the big E auction site, $5.66 lowest price shipping free from China.

Last item I ordered from the the big E from China was 1000ft of 1.10mm 250# tensile strength braided Kevlar string. It took 2 weeks to arrive and is unsuitable in its present state to use as tennis string. But it is raining so may try and string some. I either have a lifetime's supply of good strong household string, need to get into fighting kites or maybe use some as a compact canoe anchor line.

I found one for $3.65 on the auction site. So what about the Kevlar string makes it unusable?

 

[graycrait]

So what about the Kevlar string makes it unusable?

I super glued the last 2" of both ends and strung the mains of a racket with this stuff. Put syn gut in the crosses. Will give it a hit tomorrow after the remnants of hurricane Nate move through. The braiding system creates a lot more friction than Ashaway's plain braided string. I sprayed the bed using silicone with teflon. I'm not holding my breath for a miracle break through.

Now I see where some of those pin vices can be had for 3.65.