The other Eric's HMS Blandford Cross Section - 1:48 - Scratch build

Mike41 · Sep 21, 2020

I used a 20 gage brass wire bolt at each frame into the rising wood.

DocBlake · Sep 21, 2020

What kind of fastening did you use to fix the frames to the keel? If you pinned the frames, or used epoxy, no need to pin the keelson. I didn't...I just faked the bolts.. If the fit of the frames is right and tight, even PVA should be sufficient alone.

Brewbrarian · Sep 23, 2020

Thanks @DocBlake and @Mike41

Brewbrarian · Sep 23, 2020

Keelson is in, with limber boards fit. Thanks to @Donnie for insight on the angles.

Brewbrarian · Sep 23, 2020

And strakes are also complete up to the lower deck clamps. That was a surprisingly full day

DocBlake · Sep 23, 2020

That’s looking good!

Brewbrarian · Sep 23, 2020

I've been using these micro drill bits (~0.7 mm) in a pin vice to drill bolt holes, but my giant manly hands and brute strength are constantly snapping of the bit while drilling. I would like to add bolts and trenails on the exterior, something like @Donnie did (but probably not done quite so well).
I'm curious what other folks are using for drilling these features. @DocBlake or @Mike41 or anyone else have any suggestions for more durable bits or is this just what happens at 0.7mm? Is there another technique to accomplish this without burning through these things so fast?

Brewbrarian · Sep 23, 2020

Picked up some yellowheart for the exterior planking yesterday. Just a peek of what she'll look like with this in place.

Mike41 · Sep 23, 2020

Hi Eric, if you have a Dremel tool with a flexible shaft you can use Proxxon drill bits, they come in various sizes with 3/32” shanks. Making holes for tree nails is fast and easy, by using a light touch you will not break one.

Brewbrarian · Sep 23, 2020

Mike41 said:
Hi Eric, if you have a Dremel tool with a flexible shaft you can use Proxxon drill bits, they come in various sizes with 3/32” shanks. Making holes for tree nails is fast and easy, by using a light touch you will not break one.

I have a cordless Dremel with a small chuck. Ill look for the Proxxon bits. THANKS!

Mike41 · Sep 23, 2020

You can try here.

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=proxxon+...prefix=Proxxon+dr,aps,200&ref=nb_sb_ss_i_2_10

Brewbrarian · Sep 26, 2020

Yesterday i picked up a chunk of ebony, and i couldnt be more pleased with the character of it for the wales....just a peek of what it will look like next to the yellowheart. The admiral said it looks like a bumblebee, but i love it!

Brewbrarian · Sep 26, 2020

After a few tries on shaping the mast step, I think this is the version we're sticking with:

DocBlake · Sep 26, 2020

It looks good! Are you planning the square mortise and tenon layout for the mast and the step?

Brewbrarian · Sep 26, 2020

I'm pretty nervous about messing up the step again, but I'm going to try to square out the mortise and cut it with the Dremel. Short of milling, is there another way to do this---other than "CAREFULLY"?

I have the dimensions of the mortise/tenon from Goodwin (Construction and Fitting of the English Man Of War 1650--1850), which match the plans well for 1/2" mast:
fore/aft: 1/2(mast diam) = 1/4"
athwart: 2/3(mast diam.) = 1/3" or ~3/8"
depth: 1/2(mast diam) = 1/4"

Brewbrarian · Sep 28, 2020

Added bolts to all the thickstuff, as well as the mast step, and got the mortise bored in the step. I think im going pick up some good micro-chisels today and see if I can square the mortise better. These guys worked like a dream; thanks, @Mike41 !