I was considering purchasing an Ngraver magna graver. I currently own a gravermiester and enjoy using it. I want a tool that cuts like a traditional hammer and graver. The gravermiester cuts too smooth to duplicate the cuts done with a hammer and graver. Does anyone have experience with the magna graver?

Thanks,

Shawn

Shawn Young
1/3/2006 5:37:18 PM

If you really want the cuts to look like "traditional" hammer and chisel then you will likely have to use hammer and chisel.

Sam Welch
1/3/2006 6:32:19 PM

Shawn,

I have a new Magna Graver II with the best foot control pedal. The unit has the Vari-pac option included. The unit has less than 12 hours of use on it! I bought it as a package deal with an engravers block, a power hone etc. I already have a pheumatic graver and am not using the Magna Graver. By the way, it has the better Foredom motor with it. Apparently the new motor does not have the same torque, according to the techs at N-graver Co. I've got it for sale with some gravers and the books for $500.00.

If you need any more info, e-mail me at msedlak1@verizon.net or call me at 1-757-851-8031 in the evenings.

Mark Sedlak

Mark Sedlak
1/5/2006 7:53:29 PM

I have observed in my experience recreating period pieces that if you want a hammer and chisel look, use a flat,increase the face angle, like to 85 degrees, and use a large belly, and turn the speed down, you can get really good effect this way, lots of clear progression cuts, it can and does fool the experts.
The hammer and chisel does not inherently leave progression marks. The secret it to have a high angle to the work. The old engravers did it this way because:
1. they had poor tool steel that would not hold up to todays angles using a hammer and chisel.
2. They used no microscopes, which tend to make modern engravers engrave with a flatter cutting tool for clearance,
and 3, they used a high belly and flat face so they could engrave irregular surfaces while standing up at the engraving vice, which most 19th century engravers used.
Some hammer and chisel guys use a small belly,and 45 face, and leave almost no marks.

Barry Lee Hands
1/6/2006 11:18:40 AM

A Magna Graver is an excellent tool if you want to do SINGLE TAPS - or close to it. If you have a geared drive, you can use the low gear head and you can go from single taps to hundreds just by pushing the pedal. Tip grinding is very important with this tool, as it approximates hand work and there it is very important. There is nothing else on the market that will get you to single taps - if that is really what you want. Speed and agility are hallmarks of the GRS and Lindsay - all are excellent tools but won't go to single taps - your call.

Danny Comsa
1/8/2006 7:08:09 PM