244 - Mini Mirrored Ammonites Shot Plate
This mini shot plate creates left and right versions of two different ammonite designs. Mirrored designs such as these are useful for projects that require symmetry, for example earrings or rings. These mini ammonites are straightforward to strike with a hammer and punch or in a press. There is another mini ammonites shot plate available featuring four different designs.
This ammonites shot plate is available in two versions, mild steel and hardened tool steel. Both types can be used with a hydraulic press or hammer and punch.
Mild steel
Mild steel is suitable for general hobby use. To prevent damage to the die, properly anneal your metal regularly when using a hammer and punch or press. If you use excessive tonnage with mild steel, you will dent the die (particularly with small designs). Press slowly and check progress.
Hardened and tempered tool steel
Hardened and tempered tool steel is much tougher than mild steel and is suited to heavy, regular use. Our hardened dies are double tempered specifically for use in a press or with a hammer and punch. Please allow an extra 3-5 days for this option.
There is a larger version of the facetted ammonite also available. Take a look at some of our other mini shot plates.
Product description
- Specification
The mini ammonite shot plate designs measure approximately:
Width: 5-6mm
Height: 5-6mm
Depth: 1mmThis mini shot plate is manufactured from mild steel and measures approximately 20mm thick and 50mm in diameter. Made in England, UK.
- Instructions
Can I use this tool with a hammer and a punch?
Yes - When using a hammer and punch, it's crucial to work over a solid and rigid surface such as a stump, anvil or a concrete floor. Without a solid surface, no amount of hammering will produce good results! The size of your hammer plays a big part too - a 4lb lump hammer is ideal. Always use a punch when hammering your metal. Be careful to avoid striking the hammer directly on the die or shot plate.
Can I use this tool with a hydraulic press?
Yes, all Gemina impression dies and shot plates can be used in a press. Ensure your metal is annealed regularly before you begin. Small designs such as these require much less force to achieve a full impression compared to larger designs. The force produced by your press is focussed into a small area so you need to press carefully to avoid denting the shot plate.
Can I use this tool with the YQK-70 hydraulic crimping tool?
Yes, this plate can be used in the YQK-70 along with our hardened anvil.
How much silver do I use with this design?
You can use approximately 0.5g of silver to achieve a solid impression.
What shape of silver can I use?
Round shot:
Melt your metal into round shot. For best results, clean or pickle your metal before placing into the die. Use a hammer and punch (or press) to force the silver into the die. If hammering, anneal your metal after every 3 or 4 heavy blows.
Removing your impression from the die
Occasionally, some dies can 'hold on' to your metal. This is more common when using a press compared to hammering. Ensure the dies are clean before use. If you wish, you can apply a very small amount of oil into the die before forming as this can help removal. Excess metal will create a flange around the design that will aid in removal after hammering or pressing. Carefully use a thin bladed knife under the excess metal to lift the impression out of the die.
Some additional information can be found here shot plate and impression die tips.
General instructions on how to use shot plates can be found here.
- Additional Information
Take a look at our other beaches and oceans shot plates and impression dies.
If you have a solid and rigid work surface, you could use our Punch (Force) tool with a 2-4lb lump hammer. If you need a pusher for your press, you can buy a flat or tapered pusher from our range of press tools. If you need a spacer for your press, you can buy one here. - Processing Times & Shipping
PROCESSING TIMES
All purchases are made to order and will take 4-5 working days to dispatch. You will receive a dispatch notification via email with your tracking number. All hardened items will take an extra 3-5 working days for the heat treatment process. These times may increase during promotions, sales and holiday periods.
UK DELIVERY
UK delivery is free on orders over £30. A delivery charge of £6 applies to orders under £30.
INTERNATIONAL DELIVERY
Free International Shipping on orders over £125GBP. Orders under £125GBP have flat rate shipping charge of £10-25 (depending on country) for all items in basket. We use UPS/DPD for all international deliveries. The buyer is solely responsible for understanding and complying with the import requirements of the destination country and any duty, VAT, taxes, or clearance charges that may be applicable outside of the UK.
If you need to have your parcel delivered to a PO Box. Please contact us first.
For more delivery information, please see our delivery policy.
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