Grab rails

[Surfdad]

Grab rails are one of the newest features on many boards. Principally they are just indentations that run along the inboard edge of the rails. There are several ways to shape them but for those without a router table with a fence or a router without a fence attachment, this is my method.

You'll want to draw a line to use as a pattern for the indentation of the grab rail. I quickly created a device that allows me to draw a line that is equidistance from the rail where ever I want it. I think I may patent this tool

[Surfdad]

This tool can also be used for cut laps...you layout a pencil line and then run masking tape along the line. When lapping rails, you can use a razor blade to cut right at the tape and you get a smooth lap line.

[Surfdad]

I wanted the grabrails to extend from the rear foot forward to about 6 inches from the nose. So I quickly traced that along the rails.

[Surfdad]

I didn't get a good picture, but I set a 1/2" straight router bit to a depth of 1/4" and freehanded the grab rail along the line I just drew.

[Surfdad]

I didn't get the last two pictures! Sheesh. Anyway, I use a 1/2 tube wrapped in sandpaper and smooth the routed slot. That cleans up the cut and makes it uniform. Then I used a sanding block and tapered the cut from the center if the board towards the inside of the grab rail. This smoothing will make glassing much easier.

[Greg Mallek]

Here we go, the mad creator is at it again. We need to change his name to "Surf Jedi" or "The Surf Magician" or something more fitting.

[Surfdad]

You are too kind Greg - more like "Surf-there-he-goes-again"

[Greg Mallek]

I like it !
I just want to come and hang out in your shop for a while. It must be like Christmas all the time for You and James. All the new boards all the time.

[da.bell]

You are too kind Greg - more like "Surf-there-he-goes-again"

No, then you would be in the mental hospital with Brittany Spears.

"Ops, I did it again!!!"