Fin material

[TylerS]

Ok, I finally got a dremel tool (wedding present) and I plan on cranking out some decoys soon. With my last decoy, I used some pretty thick sheet metal and it didn't turn out that well. I used tin snips and the edges curled up on me (I think I will use a saw next time).

Anyway, my question is, what metal do you prefer to use when constructing decoys? Pros and cons? I'd like to pick up some of that copper sheeting that everyone uses, but haven't even thought of where to look.

Also, are there any carvers in the Fergus Falls (or Fargo, for that matter) area who wouldn't mind showing me some tips and tricks sometime? My grandfather lives in Fergus and I make it down quite a bit. I'd love to meet some other spearers and carvers and exchange ideas (maybe over a couple beers?)

Thanks,

Tyler

[shamalex72]

I use copper or aluminum(.025). I get the aluminum at the hardware store, it comes in smaller sheets. I can't remember the exact size, but its like 10x18 inches. For cutting, I just use scissors. They leave a nice clean cut and are easier to work with than the tin snips.

[Laska]

just tried copper not that long ago, Id recommend that over anything, I it because its softer than aluminum although I like working with that also... Id agree with sham on .025

[TylerS]

Sweet, thanks for the replies. If I can make some decoys half as good as the guys on here, I'll be pretty proud of myself!

[Gordie]

I have used the aluminum that siders use for making what they call boxes on the bottom side of the gable end of the roof also its the same material the facsia is made from the steel facsia also works great. I havent made that many decoys and I'm know where in the leage that these guys are but they work for me.

[merkman]

As far as use, I really like the look of the raw or polished copper fins.

[Laska]

I have used the aluminum that siders use for making what they call boxes on the bottom side of the gable end of the roof also its the same material the facsia is made from the steel facsia also works great. I havent made that many decoys and I'm know where in the leage that these guys are but they work for me.

lol, my first 15deaks were made of old tiny square stamped aluminum from the back of an old broken down air conditioner.... Now I upgraded to copper valley tin lol

[fishcarver]

I use roll of roofing tin you can buy at hardware stores.I use steel instead of aluminum because it break off after 3 time of mending them.