Cratex

[jjrock]

That stuff is expensive!

Has anyone tried any of the knock-off brands with any success? This kit is a reasonable price but seems too good to be true.

http://www.amazon.com/Gunsmithing-R...ie=UTF8&qid=1434578161&sr=8-3&keywords=cratex

Also thought about ordering something like this and trying to make my own bits...

http://www.amazon.com/Cratex-0126XF...ie=UTF8&qid=1434578161&sr=8-7&keywords=cratex

 

[markj]

The knockoff stuff works, but.... It doesn't work as well, and wont last as long. Ive used some of the cheaper stuff from Harbor Freight or other discount tool shops, its ok, but true cratex will give a better finish.

 

[jjrock]

The knockoff stuff works, but.... It doesn't work as well, and wont last as long. Ive used some of the cheaper stuff from Harbor Freight or other discount tool shops, its ok, but true cratex will give a better finish.

Good to know. Thanks

 

[bluesman2a]

I have the kit you listed. It works OK, I'm not sorry I bought it. I would recommend it to others, but I've also never had the REAL bits either.

I've HEARD that this jewelry supply on buford hwy has a pretty awesome selection of cratex tips.

http://www.jffjewelersupply.com/directions/

Never been there, never dealt with them though.

 

[jjrock]

I have the kit you listed. It works OK, I'm not sorry I bought it. I would recommend it to others, but I've also never had the REAL bits either.

I've HEARD that this jewelry supply on buford hwy has a pretty awesome selection of cratex tips.

http://www.jffjewelersupply.com/directions/

Never been there, never dealt with them though.

I found a jewelers supply store online (www.riogrand.com) that has a large selection of various rubber/silicone abrasives. There are two sets that might be comparable to cratex.
The AdvantEdge http://www.riogrande.com/Product/AdvantEdge-Silicone-Polisher-Kit/332600?Pos=1
and the Dedeco http://www.riogrande.com/Product/De...ing-Kit,-Unmounted/332800?Pos=21#ReviewHeader

The AdvantEdge are German made while the Dedeco are made here in the US so I went Dedeco. I'll post up what I think and next time I see you we can compare the quality to the set from Amazon (SE Brand?).

Edit to add: The Dedeco kit came to $38 and some change with shipping so double the price of the Amazon kit.

 

[jjrock]

I was really impressed with riogrande.com - I had the new set in two days. Confirmation of shipment the next morning and it arrived the following day! I love it when companies have quick turn around times. Just messed about with the medium and fine wheels and they seem nice. I wish I had some first hand experience with cratex to compare. I'll see how they go as I move forward on the 1911 build.