Well I cut my first bearing edges tonight. I had the blade too high and ruined two perfectly good shells. Fortunately they were cheapies anyway, and I really didn't have a use for them because of their odd size and configuration.
I then set the blade down to about 1/4 inch and got a much better cut. Tomorrow I plan to cut the edges on some better drums but before I do I want advice. Is 1/4 still too high, should I go down to 1/8th?
What do our resident experts say?
No expert, but a little at a time is best.
Creighton
Carefully study some edge profiles that WORK before you proceed blindfolded hoping for a good sounding outcome.
Go down to an 1/8th. Make sure the edge lands centered on an internal ply. Make the back-cut first, then the round-over if that's what you're doing. If it's double 45's same deal, inside cut first, then outside cut. As long as the edge itself is centered on an internal ply, (hardwood ply, not the softer poplar) you have a shot at getting a good sounding end result. Setting the fence accurately or using a jig can become critical. Study up first, there are many bearing edge profiles. Different edges will produce different sound results.
Then: Practice, practice, practice! It's the only way to get good at it.
John
I need to know what you are using to cut with. I use a router table that I built, and the only guide is the roller bearing on the router bit. If I am starting with a profile I need to recut, or with a new edge, I ALWAYS start with the shell sanded to true, then I head to the table. I like to keep scrap pieces of wood around so I can do small test cuts and compare to the shell I am working on. Every shell is a little different, so don't just set your self up, and start cutting. If you happen to set up with your blade or bit too high, you could cut continuously as you go around, and practically be slowly eating away the drum with every turn. Just remember, you can always cut more, but you can't uncut. If you want to use your practice shells again, I am sure the edges can be reworked. That might be a true test for you. Try to repair what you think you have ruined before you move on to a new project. Just a thought,
Thanks, Ryan
Ditto what's been said. Make sure the edge is true before you begin. I do several light passes until I get the profile I want. Take off a little at a time works best. I usually end up with a sharp edge that I sand down to about the width of a ply. approx 2mm or a little more. This is for a single or double 45°.
