Surform with a difference

[Stanleymonkey]

Picked up some second hand surforms.

One of them didn't have a 'cheese grater' style meshes underneath.

This one had what I can only describe as metal sandpaper.

It looked like a proper surform accessory though with the two clips in the right places.

Has anyone used these before?

 

[ChaiLatte]

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/125326461515

https://support.stanleytools.com/hc...arbide-grit-sanding-blade-for-my-surform-file

 

[robgul]

. . . I assume that you know the tool is designed with a 2-position handle - as the picture for using it "like a plane" or with the handle in line with the mesh and used "like a file"

 

[johnnyb]

Surform always make me think this was my grandads only "fine" tool. I was also very blunt bit like burnishing as oppose to forming!

 

[Dee J]

Surforms were ideal tools for their period. In the postwar hardboard over frame DIY era Surforms were ideal hardboard trimmer and de-burr. Another period appropriate use was shaping the Plastic-Padding we used to bodge up rusty 60s cars. Ah memories!

 

[robgul]

I still use a Surform like the one in the OP, as well as a "block plane" version that's about half the length . . . great for easing edges on timber.

 

[Orraloon]

I still have the one I bought back in about 1975. Really can't remember when I last used it however. I have noticed that some hardware places still stock blades but I resisted the temptation. It is in the museum corner of the shed having been usurped by the shinto rasp.
Regards
John

 

[TRITON]

They were the choice of tool for shaping car body filler. Non clogging, which is always the issue if using sandpaper on that job.

There was quite a range of surform 'holders. Ive got one where the back handle can cam from a right angle, like a plane, as with the one pictured above, to straight for a 12-14" overall length like a rasp. I've also a single handled short one, where the cutting blade area is about 2" square.

 

[dannyr]

Cintride (of Bakewell, Derbs) made tungsten carbide grit 'blades' of 3 grades to fit the Surform (UK invention, company later taken over by Stanley, who then dropped their similar Stanley-Shaper line). Useful kit.

 

[Stanleymonkey]

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/125326461515

https://support.stanleytools.com/hc...arbide-grit-sanding-blade-for-my-surform-file

Thanks - couldn't manage to find anything similar.

 

[Stanleymonkey]

. . . I assume that you know the tool is designed with a 2-position handle - as the picture for using it "like a plane" or with the handle in line with the mesh and used "like a file"

Had no idea - but looking st it now I think I see what you mean.

Thank you