James Leather Splitter Instructions.
Step 1. (see top photo) To adjust string thickness...turn the adjuster knob clockwise for thicker, or counter-clockwise for thinner cutting. Note that this moves the roller down and away from the razor blade, or up until it touches the blade edge.
Step 2. (right center photo) To split a leather lace, first depress the quick open handle down. Insert the end of your string (about 6 inches) from the "back side" out through the "front side"...aligning the string between the roller and the blade. Always split with the exterior (outer skin) surface of the hide against the poly roller. You want to remove uneven inside portions. Release the roller handle and the spring pressure will push the roller up until it compresses the string between the cutter blade and the roller.
Step 3. Begin pulling the string toward the rear "back side" of the splitter. Adjust the thickness to meet your needs. This step is to split the 6 inch end of your string first.
Step 4. (see bottom right photo) Next, you depress the quick open handles again. Now you feed the split end that you just finished through from the "front side" toward the "back side" this time. In other words, in the opposite direction. Release the handle...allowing the string to become compressed between the roller and cutting blade once again. You are now ready to split the remainder of your long leather string or leather strap.
Step 5. (see photo below) With one hand pulling the string out the "back" in a slow steady manner, feed the remaining unsplit string into the roller "front side" by gently holding it with your other hand. It works best when you hold the incoming string down close to the table or bench surface. This will make the string glide up and over the roller into the cutting blade. Remember to always keep the hide exterior skin surface against the roller and the inside surface facing up. You will be peeling off this uneven inner surface.
Step 6. Sometimes, due to rawhide skin variance in thickness, it may be necessary to fine-tune your "adjuster knob" to compensate for this. It works best to pre-moisten rawhide so it cuts more easily.
Note: we recommend practicing on some scrap strings until you get a comfortable feel for using the leather tool for splitting leather...whether Kangaroo or rawhide.
