Just starting out, need advice on which files and stones to buy

[Hammerdown]

As the title says, I need some basic files and stones to get started. I'm basically starting from scratch, and I really don't want to buy a big set of files and stones if I'm going to only ever use two or three of them. I'm not doing anything too advanced at the moment, but I would like to do the poor man's trigger job, and I'm going to be fitting/tuning a new extractor and firing pin stop. I'd also like to do a little deburring and dehorning.

So, all you experienced 1911 shade tree 'smiths, what do you recommend to start out with?

[WillAdams]

I came across this interesting set of ``how to'' articles:

http://www.realguns.com/archives/150.htm

I've been considering following along w/ it when I get a chance --- any comments on it? Suggestions for improvements or alternatives?

William

[wichaka]

For files, no's 4, 2 & 0 Swiss cut, in different widths. The 4 & 2 will be your main stay, with the 0 cut being used here & there.

Stones; Med, Med-Fine & X-fine.

All can be found at Brownells.

[kenhwind]

As far as gun tools I consider Brownells to be excellent source. If they don't stock it you probably don't need it.

[Old Guy]

I came across this interesting set of ``how to'' articles:

http://www.realguns.com/archives/150.htm

I've been considering following along w/ it when I get a chance --- any comments on it? Suggestions for improvements or alternatives?

William

I've been going along with it (and also the Kuhnhausen books) while I've replaced my hammer, trigger, sear, sear spring and disconnector. His low-buck shooter is exactly what I'm in the process of doing. It's been very helpful.

[torrejon224]

Do a google search for a company called Boride Mold & Die Finishing or Boride Engineered Abrasives. On their website you can request them to send you a sample kit of Stones called a Gunsmith Action Sample Kit. It came with about a dozen stones of every grit you'd need. They sent me two of them and I have used the heck out of them. Not sure if they still do it but it's sure worth checking. There located in Traverse City Michigan and the kit # is 028 964

[niemi24s]

If you're not too familiar with stones (abrasive files) here's a good tutorial on them plus a good overview of the grits, shapes & sizes available: http://www.mcmaster.com/#abrasive-files/=22aknh

Regards

[Hammerdown]

Do a google search for a company called Boride Mold & Die Finishing or Boride Engineered Abrasives. On their website you can request them to send you a sample kit of Stones called a Gunsmith Action Sample Kit. It came with about a dozen stones of every grit you'd need. They sent me two of them and I have used the heck out of them. Not sure if they still do it but it's sure worth checking. There located in Traverse City Michigan and the kit # is 028 964

That's a great website, lots of information. They sent you the sample gunsmith kit for free??? Looks like it's $41 now, although that still looks like a good set to start out with.

[Baldy]

Thanks Torrejon. I am going to order one too. I had never heard of this outfit. :D