Did you think the jewellery section of the retail giant is not for a grimdark hobbyist like you? Think again! If you search for steampunk gears you may find top quality bits that can be purchased cheaply by the bagful.
The best tool for paint stripping in my book is... brake fluid. The one used in cars. You can buy it at any gas station and at many run-of-the-mill supermarkets. It is designed not to damage metal car parts or plastic pipes but also to prevent corrosion and remove impurities. »