Thread: What kind of wire cutters for repinning razors?

In the past I had only pinned razors with copper/brass? rod and used brass washers. The wire cutters that I have worked fine since the rod was fairly soft.

Recently I repinned something with chrome rod and washers and the cutters I was using deformed the end of the rod enough that it was hard to get though the holes and it was hard to get the small washers on.

I got the job done on that one but I now recall reading about a better type of wire cutter that doesn't deform the rod. What is that called so I'll know what to look for at the hardware store?

Id say you just need to use a small file. I always file after cutting and before pinning. But thats just me.

Yes, I have used a small file to flush the cut end. OTH you could go to a bicycle shop and get a set of wire flush cutters there. I am sure there are other places that sell flush cutters for harder wire too.

Bob

Also, you may want to put the rod through the scales and washers before cutting it. Then you can get it closer to the desired length.
I haven't done any pinning though, so what do I know!

I have yet to have that problem, and all I use is a set of diagonal cutters. I have a feeling yours are dull, and smashing/ pinching the wire off.

+1 to the suggestions above.

Even if you get better cutters, the pin will be at least slightly deformed. Dealing with that will help get a nice finish on the end when peening, so even if new cutters allow you to pass the rod through a small file is well worth using. And I agree that passing the rod through before cutting helps too. FWIW, I normally slightly crown the end of the rod, pass it through the scales, cut close to length, then file down the cut end to clean it up as well as to get it to a more exact length.

EDIT: I should have emphasized the SMALL aspect of the file. Small files are much easier to control and you're less likely to inadvertently mar your scales.

Originally Posted by Cangooner

+1 to the suggestions above.....snip...
EDIT: I should have emphasized the SMALL aspect of the file. Small files are much easier to control and you're less likely to inadvertently mar your scales.

I would agree if you are not familiar with the use of files. I use an 8 or ten inch smooth cut file. With my age and eyesight it is easier to align and control, for me.
YMMV
~Richard
PS, according to Stan Shaw, the long stroke of a file is enough to anneal the end of a pin while pinning knives.

For harder metals, I mark with a file and then use a dremel tool and cut off wheel to make the cut.
The file mark helps seat the cut off wheel so that it doesn't go wandering around at the beginning of the cut.

The diagonal cutters, wire cutters, etc. sold at big box stores will really on cut soft metals like copper, brass, and mild steel.
If you are cutting chromium steel rod then you need better cutters with carbide blades.

When buying diagonal cutters, buy the flush cut kind. Those are the ones with a smoothly curved surface all the way to the cutting edge.

~Richard

You also have to consider this: when using flush cutters, there is a certain amount of pressure on the scale material, due to the angle of the cutting surfaces.
With brass, you can usually get away with that. But if your pins are so tough that you need heavy duty cutters, you are also more likely to crack the scales.
Using a file and a small punch is much safer. Or if you have one: just use a belt sander to get rid of the pinhead.