DIY Tool Single Edge Razor Blade Holder

I made one of these tonight using .060 styrene for the handle (it's what I had handy). It's a little too flexible, so I'll try doubling up on the plastic for a bit more rigidity. Even with the flex, this little gem works great!

 

Or you could use a 'box cutter'.


http://www.ebay.com/itm/BOX-CARTON-...294649?hash=item1c5384c5f9:g:dikAAOSwrklVYj2P

 

The box cutters I've seen use specialized blades that are angled on the ends making them subject to breaking points. Never saw that kind before, looks like it's easier to replace blades too.

 

I did some looking around and see that what I've been using all these years is commonly called a utility knife, not a box cutter. I've got a few of those.

 

Glad to see you got a holder to work Rocket. I originally used .060 acrylic sheet for the first holder. I went to the aluminum because of a narrower profile with slightly more rigidity. The aluminum was also very easy to work with (easily cut with a hacksaw and easily drilled). Also well within CAMRRA guidelines at $1.79.

I have some of the boxcutters with the retractable blade, but prefer the SERB for long cuts in styrene.

 

I've got a nice 2 inch scar on my wrist courtesy a box cutter from when I worked after school as a stock boy almost 40 years ago. I still tell people, no I didn't intentionally try to slit my wrist.

Bob

 

Does no one remember or use a steel sleeve-type SERB holder? Drop-in blade replacement, and the blade can be retracted for storage. These were often giveaways. Did everyone in the world clean out their garages and throw them out?

If you don't know, they look like this:
http://www.agarscientific.com/holder-for-single-edge-razor-blades.html

 

I'm more inclined to use a Window Scraper for most of my cutting... more control plus it locks in place and is retractable...

 

I made my first SERB holder about the same time as I started making templates for scratch building. I posted the DIY holder here in hopes that it would provide an easier way to cut parts from styrene when using templates from a scratch sketch set.

I cut my first parts with an exacto blade. While the exacto is a great hobby knife, I didn't like the ridge it left on the cut edges. The boxcutter can be used for these template cutouts as it also uses a SERB, but the DIY holder has a longer easier to grip handle, which gives it an advantage.

I tried cutting parts with a paint scraper but it was awkward to hold when making long cuts and the blade would often move or slide within the holder. Unexpected blade movement can ruin a part.

I didn't just create the holder on a whim. The frustration of ruined parts led to searching for a better way to cut parts. The first crude prototype was an old spade bit with a single drilled hole. It worked, but was too thick. Second prototype was .060 acrylic plexiglas. While still too thick, I used it for a year, and then discovered the aluminum strip stock as is shown above in OP.

Bottom line is, you have to use what works and is more comfortable for you. I'm simply relating my experiences.

 

Sorry, didn't mean to criticize, but I have gone through blades quickly on various hobby and non-hobby projects and prefer a quick change. Wing nuts for your holder, then. Your holder will definitely be more comfortable for many users.

 

I can definitely see the advantage your holder provides... most of the cuts I am interested in making (for the next couple years actually) will involve cutting passenger car parts so the window scraper makes for a good tool to use. Your holder definitely could be an advantage when making cuts to sheets of styrene and I appreciate you sharing it!!! I yet may have to look into this myself!!!