Tool Prep

Maybe it’s because I am a woodworker and possibly a little anal retentive about certain things, but I was kind of wondering if anyone else does this. Certain woodworking tools (especially hand tools of the “budget” variety) require prep before using. You sharpen cheap chisels and planes, sand wooden handles smooth and refinish them, the list goes on...this has translated over to my tickling tools as well. Here’s some of the stuff I have found helpful:

-anything plastic and cheap like hair brushes and combs with the long spike handles...when you get them, a lot of times from the factory, the plastic hasn’t been cut from the molds very well and there are sharp scratchy ridges on them. If you take a light piece of sandpaper (like 220 grit) and hit the tips, that comes right off.

-wash and dry any rope you plan on using. It makes it softer and more pliable. Natural fiber ropes require a deeper prep process. There and instructions for that all over online.

-condition any leather restraints with baseball glove oil. Possible clean with saddle soap as well

-take a pair of scissors and shape stiffer feathers. Especially the tip.

-clean and disinfect everything. You have no idea how long it has spent in a warehouse.

Anything you guys have found helpful?

Makes sense.

Just clean and disinfect here, aside from leather care, which goes to a boot black friend of mine.