Sanding tip prep for install

[Renegade_56]

Depends on the grit used.

Machinist generally use the figure eight on larger items. If you don't know what you are doing, it is easy to rock something as small as a tip, which will create the convex shape the op is describing.

Lapping on a diamond plate is pretty foolproof. The number of strokes isn't really a concern, I have enough stamina and time to spend seven seconds on prepping a tip.

I was a Machinist for 46 years,,,,,,,,,,,,,, I know what I'm doing

 

[Canadian cue]

I have found that you can achieve a flat tip by using both the figure 8 as well as single strokes in one direction. Both methods you need to use a n accurate surface under the sandpaper. I use a ground plate. I have also migrated to the 8's because I have found that it is easy to inadvertently put an angle to the flat. With layered tips it is easy to spot. To me the biggest aha moment was realizing how important priming the tip before instalation. I have had very few tips pop off after implementing this into my routine. I also never do the hatch marks with the razor blade, some installers swear by it.

 

[WildWing]

Does any one use a metal file?

I do to make sure the ferrule is flat and smooth. But you have to have very good hands to do this.