Hammer Restoration & Customization - Copper Electroplated & Carhartt Micarta

[@falconeer99]

You were the last bit of inspiration i needed. I bought a jug of evapo-rust today and have some tools soaking!

[@oldshovel]

Awesome. I think the stuff is great.

[@mooseroo2005]

A couple weeks ago, I found a forgotten jug of evaporust under the kitchen sink. Now I'm cruising eBay and junk shops for rusty old tools. This copper plating gives me some nice options!

[@DukeBiggsley]

He inspired me too. To promise myself if my carhartts aren’t fitting, to get a gym membership and lay off the donuts.

[@sh3lbot]

@@DukeBiggsley he gave me the inspiration to start eating more donuts so i can fit back into my carhartts :D lel

[@oldshovel]

Lol

[@balanair2577]

I usually don't comment on the videos but your comment and remembrance of your grand father really touched me. Your respect and love for him is heartwarming. Good going lad.. God bless you..

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏 much appreciated.

[@benkanobe7500]

I'm 65 years old. I put myself through College working as an auto mechanic using my Dad's (mostly) tools that he allowed me to borrow. Most of my Dad's tools were worn from use and I cherish each wrench to this day. Dad was a Land Surveyor, but as so many who lived through The Depression, he was taught by his Uncle that you must have a "backup" just in case. So my Dad learned auto mechanics from his Uncle and my Dad taught me since I was just a little boy with a solvent bucket and a stack of Ford Model A wheel bearings to clean. Dad was also a Marine Raider during the second world war (America's first "Special Forces"). I love what you do and am trying to learn to do the same with things around my house. Thank You ! I assure you your Grandfather is very proud of you and looks down from heaven with a smile.

[@thefuzzymango4000]

Just wanted to let you know that you and a number of other youtuber makers and artists have been a huge influence on me to work with my hands and fulfill myself creatively. I don't know that I'll become a content creator (maybe) but I went and bought a bunch of new tools and I have a few projects in my queue. I'm much happier because I'm creating things and restoring things and if it weren't for your influence I would be a vessel of wasted talent. So thank you for helping me find my creativity again. I owe you. 💚

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@mdog2143]

I really enjoyed this video. My grandpa shared a similar role in my live. He tought me so much and was a huge impact on who I am today. He passed this last December. Though I may not have him. I still have the memories of doing projects with him and messing around in his shop. He too always seemed to have the screw, nut. Bit or Bob that you need. He also was a fan of salvaging from others waste. He rarely passed by a bungie cord on the road without stopping and picking it up. And I'm not sure he ever had to buy one but he had plenty. We even found a flash light in a creek once and we took it back and showed me how to fix it. I've inherted some of these qualities myself. The best thing we evermade was a hand made desk for me. This was a big deal since he was a frugal man, but for this special project he spared no expense Buying (mostly) new high grade materials. It turned out very nicely and I still have it today. It means alot to me as do the memories associated with it. Sorry for the long message but I liked your video and it reminded me of good times with my grandpa. Also i never knew a copper finish was that easy or how micarta was made. Thanks

[@oldshovel]

Matt, that awesome. Thanks for sharing your story and experience with your Grandpa. I hope to do the same when I become a grandpa.

[@oldshovel]

Matt, that awesome. Thanks for sharing your story and experience with your Grandpa. I hope to do the same when I become a grandpa.

[@tedclayton6913]

this was the first video me and my son watched and he said to me can we watch more of this guy and i said absolutely. so we are watching the hatchet video next. good job man.

[@oldshovel]

Thanks - I'm glad your son liked it!

[@ReCRexEFX]

I particularly like your videos because you speak in a normal voice, you don't oversensationalize, you give really clear instructions about what you're doing, and you don't pretend to be perfect. Your work is beautiful. Thank you ever so much for sharing these videos with us.

[@RobertSmith-me3gs]

My grandpa/dad that raised me made a habit of us working on projects together. He's with me m, in spirit, with every project I take on. Keep up the amazing work.

[@dannysantos1266]

Wonderful work with the hammer. I enjoyed the heart warming story about your grandpa. Makes me miss my grandpa and dad and Im happy to say my dads tools are now in MY toolbox. ❤️

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@tpniefer]

As a Grandfather myself I feel I can say that your Grandfather would be very proud of you. My own Grandfather was much the same as how you described yours and, like you, i followed him everywhere as well. What amazed me most about my Grandpa was that he had no education yet he was an outstanding carpenter. I was lucky to inherit some of his skills as a carpenter. Keep making your videos. You're doing an awesome job.

[@oldshovel]

That’s the way my grandpa was also. He dropped out of school to work on the farm.

[@auntlynnonline6206]

Your Grandpa would be very proud of you. I really enjoyed this video... love the copper plating, and I feel like it's something I could actually do myself, in the garage. Thank you.

[@factfind9836]

Oh goodness,now I have to start buying old tools to refurbish. You have created a movement! Your work is thoughtful and excellent,

[@oldshovel]

Lol thanks

[@dadhobbies]

I am a plumber. Anything Copper plated is cool. I am going to have a look through my toolbox and see what I can do of my own. Didn't realize that it could be a DIY that easily.

[@oldshovel]

Cool! Thanks for watching.

[@BiblePrayerASMR]

Thank you for describing the items you actually use to do these projects. I love watching videos like this but not many people that make videos like this say what items and materials they use. When I watch your videos and want to make something similar, I will be able to know what materials to buy which is very important. Thanks again!

[@johnwilliams7102]

I love how you give new life to old things. I too have a donut waistline - 30 inch midsection but a distant memory. The Carharts will now always be with you. The copper plating is awesome - a process new to me. I appreciate your narrative - best and easiest for me to follow along - superior video. Thanks.

[@Zoso14892]

I didn't realise copper plating could be done so easily, I'm amazed at how it turned out. Good job. Also just over a week later and you're up 2500 subscribers, not bad dude. It's nice to watch this style of video and hear someone talk about what they are doing, too many are just silent/horrible music or text on screen. You talking through your process brought me back and made me subscribe, thank you!

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@911axe]

Read your comment after leaving one of my own very similar. I agree, excellent narrating for this type of video. The feel good music others use is too much. I end up looking instructions cause I mute the music and anything following usually gets lost after i get tired of backing the video back up.

[@911axe]

^losing instructions

[@jeremyolson4280]

i was given a bunch of old tools today by a customer and he was telling me how his father's favorite metal was copper. My customer is in his 70's and his father passed some time ago- So you can imagine how old some of these tools are. It's like buried treasure!

[@craigmooring2091]

That was a lovely tribute to your grampa. Thank you for sharing. I'm sure others will join me in thanking him for inspiring and mentoring your craftsmanship that has turned out to bring so much enjoyment to us. You never know how far the ripples of good you do will spread as they flow through time. While I am familiar with micarta and have seen it used for knife scales many times, it is only through your videos that I have learned what it is and how simple it is to make for oneself.

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏 I’m glad you liked it, it was a fun video and I look forward to doing more of both in the future.

[@BillySargent]

I saw your previous video with the ax, and not having subscribed yet, was directed to this video. I am a patreon of HandTool Rescue, and probably thru the algorithm of youtube, was sent your way. I sincerely enjoy the way you approach your restorations, in that you use what is handy, and you do it in a manner that anyone could approach. I was not a subscriber until you made mention of your Grandpa. I too am a Grandpa’s boy, even though he passed in 1963 and I was but a boy of 12-do the math! He too, was a major influence in my life, and still is to this day. Good luck in your work. You inspire others in your videos and I can tell that you are a sincerely, genuinely fine man.

[@oldshovel]

Bill, thanks for sharing your story, I am glad you appreciate that I shared this about my Grandpa. I have loved the comments I have received from those that relate to my experience. I hope I can inspire the same in future generations. Thanks for watching and subscribing!

[@starforged]

Great Job. Its great to see someone that respects his tools. I also stop and say thank you Grandpa even tho he has been gone but not forgotten.

[@pacula33]

Love the copper plating.. I miss getting to spend time in the shop with my grandpa too.. when he passed I acquired a lot of his old tools... I haven't brought myself to mess with them much....

[@oldshovel]

I would love to have some of my grandpa’s tools. Thanks for watching.

[@TheBeeFactory]

So, I'm a chemist for an electroplating company. I can tell you, your cleaning methods are pretty good and more thorough than most amateurs. Pre-cleaning is absolutely the most important part of plating. It's like 90% of the battle. It's actually refreshing to see someone getting the pre-treatment mostly correct on youtube, lol. People are awful about cleaning their parts/cathode. However your plating method could be much improved. Let me know if you want some pointers. I'd be glad to help you refine your methods here if you ever plan on continuing to plate things as a hobby.

[@baisao]

The Bee Factory I have some tin to copper plate so I am definitely curious.

[@matthewshannon6946]

Pass it on, friend- I'd be fascinated to hear it.

[@SnorrioK]

I've seen in other videos that you can't copper plate straight onto steel, so maybe that was the problem?

[@richardcranium6554]

You taught an old dawg a new trick with the copper. Great job, thanks.

[@philplasterer1547]

The “dings” were probably “rust pits”...... maybe. Sir, outstanding job!!! I inherited my fathers shop after he past from cancer 6 years ago. I am going to restore all the tools I can with the way you do. I very much appreciate you Sir.

[@JohnyComeLately]

You got the KZbin algorithm recommendation to me, and I enjoyed this video thoroughly. Thanks for displaying your talent.

[@tomm9176]

I have the same hammer, it predates me many years and I am 59. Nail claws are both broken off but the handle is still in great shape. Nice to see it restored.

[@frankg3072]

That was a fantastic restoration. You are a very talented guy, to think of making a handle out of a pair of pants is mind boggling! That was a nice tribute to your grandfather! Thanks for the videos. Ciao.

[@oldshovel]

Thanks Frank. It’s always a pleasure to have you watch and comment.

[@bysonderby]

Hey, That hammer turned out great, the copper made it look awesome! From what I have seen in your videos, your grandfather would`ve been proud of you! Keep up the great work! Regards Lars

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

Well done good sir. Someone has been hard at work. The copper plating technique was awesome! I've never seen that before. Bravo! -Will

[@oldshovel]

Thanks Will. It kept me busy the last couple nights and most of the day today. Thanks for watching.

[@justinturner4850]

Thank you for teaching me this! I want to get some of my motorcycle parts cooper plated. But you’ve shown me I can do it myself:) cheers from Maui. P.S. my grandfather was a builder too. I miss him. He died before I became successful, became a father, and before I realized how important family really is. Anyway, thank you again.

[@roberthoffman7130]

Don't comment on vids much but I really want to express my appreciation to you for all you bring to the KZbin community. Here's to all those Inspiring people in our lives may we do out best to pass it on. Kudos brother

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@josephburkhalter5105]

Lost my Estwing hammer for about 10 years. Found it under the house in the crawl space. A mass of rust. Have started a restoration. Will probably use leather replacement. I will definitely copper plate the entire hammer as I believe it will prevent rust in the coming years. Will plate the entire length as the rust under the new leather should not rust like the origjnal leather in the crawl space. A water line freezing and breaking put 4 inches of water under the house and a $300.00 water bill in the mail box. Just starting the derusting with electrolysis using tap water, vinegar and salt. Works pretty well. Used a 12v power supply from radio shack and connected to a 12 in x 3 in bolt on the + terminal and the neg terminal to the rusted butt end of the hammer. Will probably use about a 6 in piece of copper water pipe for copper source connected to the the positive terminal and hammer connected to the negative terminal . Hope all this works. The video was very useful. Very well done. Thanks JoeB

[@CynHicks]

Never in my life have I thought of a hammer as beautiful. Subbed after first video watched.

[@oldshovel]

Awesome - thanks for the comment

[@nevv8581]

Great job! I too try to fix or re-use what I can. It’s too easy to throw away something which can be restored or fixed. One of the things I enjoy about your videos is how you clearly explain and show how you got the results from from start to finish. I have learned so much from you and appreciate how much work goes into the steps in between which are not in the video. Looking forward to the next restoration, keep up the great work!

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@CurlyQLink]

"These were good until I ate too many donuts at work." lol My waist line expanded when I ate too many box lunches at work. Unfortunately, true. Your remembrance of your grandpa was touching.

[@gfweis]

Lovely hammer. Jeans into a hammer handle! Who knew? I really enjoyed watching how you did it.

[@KoRnNut]

Happy Birthday to your Grandfather, May he RIP. And the custom hammer looks awesome!! Congrats!

[@oldshovel]

Thank you 🙏

[@leebrewer1190]

Wow - what an incredible looking hammer now. Great job. Also a great tribute to your Grandfather. My Grandfather was also my inspiration so I relate very well to what you are saying.

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@endswithk2081]

Really enjoy your videos, and loved the story about your Grandpa.

[@drewparker6081]

I'm starting to get into knife making. Doing research right now. Your very wise and resourceful. I'm looking forward to watching your videos

[@oldshovel]

Thanks Drew.

[@sundstrom193]

This channel is relatively young and I'm glad to see that it's growing pretty fast! Over 5,000 subs already. Congrats!

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@toonybrain]

I admire the patience you exhibit in your projects.

[@crossgrainwoodproductsltd9230]

This was an excellent video on a subject I wasn't too familiar with. As a hobby, I restore hand tools mostly as well as sharpen all different kinds of blades. I have restored hammers before and a few had the "leather-like" handle. I wasn't knowledgable enough to try and reproduce it. Watching you use a canvas/denim like material has opened another door for me instead of making them out of wood all the time. Thanks for the great info!!!

[@oldshovel]

Awesome the micarta from denim is really durable and feels great oiled or waxed I hope it works well for you.

[@donisaurones]

That electroplating finish is really cool and so simple.

[@bernmccoy3604]

I enjoy it when people make their own micartas or add touches like electroplating. You got good skills. Stay original.

[@forkmonkey]

I'd love to see how this ages, whether the copper gets a patina (verdigris) and gets that great greenish tinge.

[@MultiColouredWhite]

It's cool seeing you use the tools that you've made/restored in other videos!

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@kylerunyan5950]

Copper plating is very different and would make ones personal tools more difficult to steal at a work site! BRILLIANT idea! LOVE the hammer handle as well! WELL DONE!

[@oldshovel]

True, great application idea. Thanks for watching.

[@harviecz]

Copper is toxic and oxidizes fast while producing even more toxic compounds... I am not sure it's a good idea for long term protection of tools. Unless there's some special chemistry going on between copper and steel which prevents it from oxidizing. But i doubt it. In best case scenario you will probably have to polish this often.

[@harviecz]

Even worse... Turns out that copper plating on steel produces electrolytic cell which will cause steel to rust faster. Exact opposite of zinc plating. However copper plating on steel can be used as base layer for brazing or plating with other metals like chrome...

[@johndavidson8703]

Awesome result! Never knew electroplating was so simple.

[@KenwayJoel]

lovely video pal, i watch vids like these before and after work, its a pleasure to watch and very calming.

[@Dan_Kornfeld]

A beautiful hammer resto-mod’! Cheers to your grandad for instilling the artist/inventor/creator/builder in you (now that’s a legacy)!

[@oldshovel]

Thanks. I like that word, resto-mod, apt description. Thanks for watching.

[@blackwaterblades2098]

man I honestly love how you left it slightly rustic looking. made it beautiful

[@RealVladCrapula]

This one has to be my favourite restoration so far

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@fun_ghoul]

As someone who remembers people's birthdays, I appreciate someone who remembers people's birthdays. Cheers.

[@silentguy5875]

At work I have used the sides of the hammers to drive in nails or other things. Sometimes you don't have enough room to swing it the right way and have to swing it sideways. Theirs no wrong way to use a hammer as long as you get the job done.

[@joshramsey6893]

Silent Guy as a side hammer swinger I fully endorse this statement.

[@mme169]

I used that model Estwing for many years, great for finish/siding. The handle is leather so that it breaks in shaped to the user's hand, making it very comfortable. Use that hammer with the solid micarta for any amount of time and you'll want to chuck it in the trash.

[@oldshovel]

You may be right. I am sure the leather is much better on the arms.

[@MrCRMapleFarm]

I sure wish I viewed this yesterday. The plating technique is awesome and just what I could have used today for TD's challenge. Oh well, I'm going to run what I brung.

[@oldshovel]

What was TD’s Challenge?

[@MrCRMapleFarm]

@@oldshovel An oil can challenge. Due date April 1st. I was trying to come up with some type of metal finish besides paint. This would have been the nuts. It might not be too late for you.

[@RNDM85]

I love that you repurpose things! Like the tennis racket... Genius! I'd own it!

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@rickolson1738]

Awesome job! Really nice to see someone take the time to do it and add a personal touch. Well done!

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@nunya___]

Eastwing makes awesome tools. Great restoration.

[@zephyrmaze]

What a great Idea.. I have one of those hammers and I've always thought about what to do to make it look new again..I guess I have a new project in my hands. Thank you for showing your video and influencing me, you are a great inspiration.

[@mooman4836]

I hear you on the snow I still have four foot snow banks here in northern Wi thanks for the copper plating tips.

[@890mikes]

Great finish. Love how you explain each step. Thanks.

[@haggar11]

Great video, respect to your grand dad.

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@TysyTube]

Look so good 😊

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@GuiltyMalice]

Dude that hammer came out friggin awesome!! Nice job bro!!

[@JunoScream]

That stacked micarta is gorgeous

[@davidcoats1037]

That turned out nice. I’m sure Grandpa would approve.

[@oldshovel]

Thanks

[@helidude3502]

Some of my previously restored tools need to be refreshed. I may try the copper plating. You make it very simple. Love the Micardharta !

[@DROFHAPPINESS]

Love the looks of the final project. You have me thinking of what I might try to copper plate.

[@TheLoxxxton]

Great result. I love the copper plating. Hope you do a full copper coated tool kit with custom made storage/display

[@oldshovel]

Lol 😂 perhaps. We’ll see.

[@doslobos1582]

Young man i am impressed with what you do! I really enjoy watching and learning

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@tdfpublic886]

I love the hammer and the axe you do a bit later on. The only thing I would definitely do different is electroplate the entire shaft and redo the base plate. While electroplating the hidden parts of the shaft may seem pointless to some; copper doesn't rust. Copper is one of the few metals that ages rather than corrodes. Electroplating the entire shaft ensures that the hammer could last for generations without a great deal of maintenance. But that's me. Thanks for the videos, I look forward to more.

[@oldshovel]

Good thoughts on the handle. If I do it again I may do just that.

[@proberts34]

Nice hammer, ready for another 30 years of service. The electroplating process seemed rather straightforward. I may try doing something like that sometime. Well done and thanks.

[@Sharklops]

wow that is absolutely beautiful! also, muriatic acid is simply hydrochloric acid in case anyone has trouble finding it

[@ussubmarineveteranscharita4501]

Great, another scavenger. I have refreshed/replaced handles on several hammers and shingling hatchets with some success. I love the idea of copper plating and will do that very soon. I get my supply of "junk" tools from places like Goodwill and Habitat for Humanity thrift shops. My cost usually runs around $1.00 for each tool. Keep up the good work, I'll be watching.

[@asbjrnyoung-groener1646]

The coolest hammer I have ever seen, this is just awesome. Great work.

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@theJoker-po5xp]

I love hearing your narration as you do your work, great videos! Keep it up.

[@oldshovel]

Thanks

[@shylock97]

I always use the side of my hammer to knock the foundation form ties off after removing the forms from a foundation pour. Works like a charm - much better than using the head of the hammer as it gives you more surface area to hit the narrow ties.

[@oldshovel]

Totally makes sense.

[@brianarps8756]

That was a really nice restoration. Liked it. Well done.

[@TomosAvis]

That micarta is such a unique idea. Very nice

[@TaistoUuslail]

Inspiring! Good work! Following grandpas is effective...

[@LukeMcMullin]

I am a licenced carpenter and did mostly renovations bathrooms kitchens etc. and have used every part of my hammer at one time or another but often used the side of my hammer in tight spaces. I have many estwings, even a stiletto, but preferer Stanley anti vibe as my hands have arthritis, now.

[@oldshovel]

Lol. I guess I need to get more creative in my hammering. Thanks for the comment and thanks for watching!

[@straightpipec6099]

That is cool. Good story. I love being resourceful and using what you have.

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@osvaldotorres2369]

Love the way you copper plated the 🔨 .and how you did the handle .

[@not2fast4u2c]

The copper is a Cool look ...The handle material does look nice

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@tomlangley140]

I have the same hammer and have been using it for over 30 years (Great Tool) Nice video..Thumbs up and subscribed.

[@timrockman7]

Beautiful! I have some old tools from my Dad that got me to where I am in knowledge and knowhow. They mean a lot to me. Copper Sulfate in the electrolyte could make thicker coats, and if you want to take it to the Nth degree, do several coats of copper, Silver, etc, on a textured surface then sand to expose details.

[@oldshovel]

Cool idea. Thanks for watching.

[@bikefarmtaiwan1800]

You can make a playing wand with a bit of copper wrapped in a soft absorbent cloth or cotton wool etc. dip that in your solution and connect the hammer as you’d expect and then you can plate the end cap without submerging your hammer . The plating will of course only stick to clean metal . Nice video!

[@GrandpaHerman1]

Good job. I plated my wrenches with copper from my first job.

[@notamouse5630]

You don't need to brush with steel wool to polish an electroplated object, just reverse the current and it will electropolish.

[@SeanBZA]

Steel wool though does flatten the layers, plus any impurities that are being trapped in the coating will be removed. A big plus is the removal means that spots that were in contact with the container will still get a coat, as they are not going to be in contact when going back in.

[@markharris5771]

I’m not sure if what you do is a restoration or a rebuild, and in truth I’m not too bothered. You may create something slightly different than the original, but you still respect the original and you don’t do anything that can’t be undone by the purist. This is another amazing transformation and you’ve created something truly beautiful. Another great video, thank you

[@oldshovel]

Thanks Mark. Some times it’s a restoration and then it’s that and some... this was a fun one.

[@TimNummy]

This is incredible. Nice work!

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏 much appreciated!

[@ChristophersVanLife]

This turned out amazing and beautiful craftsmanship. Keep up the awsome work

[@Homeinspectorsny]

Looks great. I want to due one of these for my cousin.He is a copper smith and taught me the craft as well.

[@joeheilm]

Excellent project..no doubt your grandfather would be proud. Cheers

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@EuelBall]

Great video. I've never seen a copper plated hammer, but I have now. :) Great job with the Carhartt Micarta.

[@oldshovel]

Thanks

[@ResaleRonin]

That's one of the nicest hammers I've ever seen. Well done

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏

[@JasonDavidsonSmiles]

Looks great! The electro plating reminded me of a few projects from when we were kids. Keep it up buddy!

[@oldshovel]

Thanks Jason. It’s great to see old friends watching my videos. A little practical science in the shop is always fun.

[@micahpartlow4595]

You can wrap a wet rag around the bottom of the handle and take a small torch to heat that end plate the buff it with a copper wire wheele and it will engraine that copper to it.

[@ScoutCrafter]

Great Project! Love the Micarta! Thanks for sharing!

[@oldshovel]

Thanks 🙏 it was a fun one!