Parts for a tamper

[winton]

How important is it to have a metal tip on the bottom of a tamper? Would a washer and screw work? I don't know anyone local with a pistol to ask for spent cartriges. Any suggestions would be appreciated. My idea for the tamper trade would be better with a cap.
Winton

 

[ejames]

A metal tip isn't mandatory if you're using briar or other heat resistant wood.I make some from sticks and twigs and tip them with a thumb tack epoxied in place. If you use a bolt,try to find one made of brass,easier to work with hand tools. If you rough up the surface good you might epoxy a flat piece of metal to it and then round off with a file etc. I like JB Weld for stuff like this-it is heat resistant up to 600 degrees. A coin might work.

 

[smokindawg]

I started out using stainless steel bolts and rounded them on a grinder. Then finish them by sanding with fine grade sandpaper. Of course then I buff them to a mirror finish. I also make some out of aluminum on the lathe now! Lots of ways you can make the end for tampers.

 

[ichbinmuede]

Winton you should check if you've got a freecycle sort of deal in your area here.

That's how I came to have the cartridges I have.
The idea is you put an ad asking for them and somebody just may have them to give you! Freecycling.

 

[stryder]

A screw and washer will work. As mentioned a thumb tack or upholstery tacks will also work. A coin will work (mercury head dimes in really worn condition are cool and cheap). You can even use pennies and dimes in layers to get a neat look.

You can check yellow pages for shooting ranges and they will give you all the spent cases you want, brass, steel and alloy.

Thin metal used as flashing found on building sights, bought at DIY stores or cut from soda or beer cans will work...on and on and on

 

[pstlpkr]

I never put a metal tip on my tampers.