Cutting Amsteel

**JaxHiker** · 06-15-2011, 18:28

Thanks guys. I'll swing by Harbor Freight in the morning and try to pick up a ceramic knife. I'll also try taping. Much obliged!

ETA: You posted while I was responding. Maybe I'll try those, too.

**DiverJim242** · 06-15-2011, 19:10

Just a little helpful hint for cutting amsteel or any other type of line is wrap it with electrical tape first, then cut through the middle of the wrap. Makes a clean cut every time, and you end up with the best temporary whipping. Don't use masking, duct, scotch tape, they never work.
I have used this method for decades on everything from twine to 12 inch samson ship line, works every time.

**JaxHiker** · 06-16-2011, 20:13

Holy ceramic, Batman! This thing slices right through it like butter!!

Ok, next up, what do you use for a fid? I tried guitar string. That didn't work out so well. I picked up some darning needles. Broke one of the plastic ones and the eye in the metal one is too small. I'm drawing a blank. Looking to work with 7/64 and 1/8".

**hppyfngy** · 06-16-2011, 20:22

Really? The ceramic is the shizz? I have to have one now...

Start another thread about your fid question. Personally I use 22 gauge floral wire. Fold it once and make a loop with the other ends. Seems to work for me...

**oldgringo** · 06-16-2011, 20:24

Stainless Steel Leader Wire....029"

**Timberrr** · 06-16-2011, 20:27

Originally Posted by JaxHiker

Ok, next up, what do you use for a fid?

two words: floral wire

**tiredhiker** · 06-16-2011, 20:35

Originally Posted by TraumaRN

My trauma shears work just fine. no fraying whatsoever

Just like meatloaf said in the song "you took the words right out of my mouth"
I use the same and they work fine,I also have used the single edged razorblades on a small piece of 1/4" plywood

**opie** · 06-16-2011, 20:37

Originally Posted by oldgringo

Stainless Steel Leader Wire....029"

ding

But seriously... If you want to get fancy and serious about it....

http://www.knotandrope.com/Store/pc/...&idcategory=39

Ive got one of these, although for other reasons...

**raiffnuke** · 06-16-2011, 20:42

Originally Posted by JaxHiker

Holy ceramic, Batman! This thing slices right through it like butter!!

Ok, next up, what do you use for a fid? I tried guitar string. That didn't work out so well. I picked up some darning needles. Broke one of the plastic ones and the eye in the metal one is too small. I'm drawing a blank. Looking to work with 7/64 and 1/8".

Metal coat hanger bent in half. Works great!