Cutting the bill slot

[jcromerangler]

I am trying to learn how to easily cut the bill slot on Balsa blanks that are already shaped and ready for hardware. Looking for some good recommendations. 

[DingerBaits]

I havent done that, i cut my lip while the bait is flat on the band saw. but i would suggest make a jig or a box that you can hold the bait in square so you can cut a straight line. 

[mark poulson]

The only way I've found to do it after a bait is shaped is to draw the joints completely before I cut.

I use a folded over piece of cardboard to mark the starting and finishing points, so they are even, and then to use a fine toothed dovetail saw to cut the joints slowly. 

I draw connecting lines on both the top and the bottom of the baits, showing the actual joint lines I want, from the centerlines on the top and bottom to the rear part of the joints, to use as a guide. 

I also don't worry if I'm a little off.  The joints can be sanded or filed after they're cut to get them more symmetrical.

As long as the two cuts wind up meeting at the centerlines of the bait, it will work.

Just go slow, and check your alignment often as you cut.

Edited February 14, 2018 by mark poulson

[BobP]

I stretch a thick rubber band, the kind they use on supermarket produce, over the nose and mark the line.  Then cut it with a thin fiber reinforced Dremel cutoff disk.

Edited February 14, 2018 by BobP

[jcromerangler]

Thanks to all

[jcromerangler]

1. So are you guys cutting the bill slots before painting/clear? How are yal keeping clear from building up in the slot. 

Also are you guys painting/clearing after the hardware are installed?

 

 

 

 

[mark poulson]

I always cut the slot and attach all my lips, hardware, and ballast before I paint. 

I use PVC, so I can actually test my baits unpainted without worrying about water intrusion.

Once I'm sure the lure is working the way I want it to, I take the hardware off, mask the lip, and paint and topcoat.