Mysterious Polishing Problem

[Aurarius]

Right, a texturing hammer, if I'm correct. I didn't think of that. The effect you've created with it is very natural-looking: a beautiful example of art imitating nature. In my hands the piece would just look like someone had hit it randomly with a hammer.
You're getting warm when you mention leather with those pliers.

[Patstone]

Well I cant guess, havent a clue what they would be used for in your other pastime. Go on tell me......... please.

[Dennis]

I've uploaded a photo of a specialised pair of pliers I use in the other craft I've come from. I wonder if you can guess the craft
Attachment 5955

My guess is that they're for breaking toffee, but then that's what all pliers are for aren't they? Dennis.

[Aurarius]

You can see the "pliers" (actually called "band nippers") in action in this video at 6 mins. 29s. This is what I do in my other life. My main specialism is gold tooling (that's why my username on here is Aurarius). You can see a bit of gold tooling being demo'd just after the band nipping scene. Actually band nippers are hard to find for sale nowadays and cost around £100. I bought my pair from Spain after using secondhand ones for a number of years.

[Dennis]

Thank you it looks a very rewarding occupation. Working standing up is hard though. Dennis.

[Aurarius]

Yes, it can be tiring Dennis. BTW, I can't find that "fast flux soldering solution" on Walsh's site. Can you help me out, because I'd be interested in getting some?
Thanks. Mark.

[Dennis]

Yes, it can be tiring Dennis. BTW, I can't find that "fast flux soldering solution" on Walsh's site. Can you help me out, because I'd be interested in getting some?
Thanks. Mark.

Sorry, I cant see it in their current printed catalogue either, although I bought some over the counter in Hatton Garden not long ago. you can try:

Ringing them on 0121236 9346, or
consider their new Firescoff ref TF28, a spray on which claims to be for the same purpose, or
just make a saturated solution of boric acid in meths.

I should have said that I brush on Walshes Fast flux soldering solution routinely prior to annealing because it is convenient and smells better, but it is no great shakes as a flux for soldering. Dennis

[Aurarius]

Thanks for the information, Dennis. I've ordered some Firescoff from Walsh's.
I've now read the discussions about "Magic Boric Dip" both on here and elsewhere. It would be interesting to know what it really is good for, if it's so ineffectual at eliminating firescale.

[ShinyLauren]

I have Magic Boric - I find it works fine as a flux but does bugger all for firescale.

Walsh sell a whole bunch of stuff that's not on their website, but they are lovely and helpful if you call them, both in the Hatton Garden shop and the main showroom. I've used Argotect mixed with meths, which I find helped with the fire stain, but as I solder in the spare room of my rented flat, the idea of setting fire to things mixed that are mixed with meths freaks me out, so I don't use it at the moment. Also, it was v. expensive.

[Dennis]

Called in at Cookson Hatton Garden today, and found that they too are stocking Firescoff now. I asked, but so far my counter assistant had heard of no feedback. Let's hope it is more than just a pretty name this time. Dennis.