Thread: Unpinning without damaging scales

Anyone have tips/suggestions for how to unpin a razor without damaging scales? Simplest thing seems to be to use a drill press, but I don't have one.
I only have files, a dremel tool, a pin punch and a hammer. I have unpinned a few razors using the tools I have but have damaged all the scales I have unpinned, luckily the were damaged before I got my hands on them so it was of no great loss, but I have some blades I would like to unpin to clean up, and reuse the scales.

Also what is the best way to unpin bullseye washers without damaging them?

The best you can do for info on the subject is here

Several months ago I pick up a little tool set for a wooden model ship kit I'm working on. I've found that the hand/twist drill it contains is GREAT for removing razor pins without damaging scales (if you're really careful and initially center the bit well you can even save the bullseye washers on old razors).

Takes a little patience though - 5-10 minutes per pin.

Couldn't find the exact one I have (its collet is double ended to allow for really small diameter bits (#61, #62, etc.) in one end and larger (1/16, 5/64, etc.) in the other. A few examples of similar little hand drills from the same hobby supply shop:

Model Expo: Historic Wooden Model Ship, Aircraft, Cannon, Stagecoach Kits, Modeling Books, and Hobby Tools - Product.asp
Model Expo: Historic Wooden Model Ship, Aircraft, Cannon, Stagecoach Kits, Modeling Books, and Hobby Tools - Product.asp

Thanks for the tip John, I was thinking of a mini drill too.
I found these bits, Minicraft Tools: Accessories
but hadn't found a good looking mini drill, I'll check out the one in your link.

http://straightrazorpalace.com/works...al-method.html

the link above can also be found here...

http://straightrazorpalace.com/works...wers-here.html

you may want to check those before you start pulling scales.

**EDIT**
and if you ask me, I don't think a drill press is the easiest way to remove pins. if the bit drifts you can do a lot of damage.

Originally Posted by Ookla

The best you can do for info on the subject is here

I've used this method on a resto and worked fine for me

I just use the thinnest dremel cutting disc i could find. I do an X in the centre of the pin, and then slowly work towards the outside. The idea is just to wear off the peened bit of the centre of the pin.

This has the effect of leaving the washer mostly intact, and its then easy to slide the pin out.

Some might not like this approach though, as you need really steady hands and it is possible to slip and touch the scales with the cutting disc if you are not careful enough (I have never done this).

Originally Posted by TheBaron

and if you ask me, I don't think a drill press is the easiest way to remove pins. if the bit drifts you can do a lot of damage.

Exactly, the drill bit you need will be very thin so prone to 'drift'. I have damaged a nice pair of scales that way.

A non-bevelled wire cutter works better for me.

the easiest way is to just file the pin, but put some electrical tape around it to avoid scratching the scales.

Originally Posted by TheBaron

...and if you ask me, I don't think a drill press is the easiest way to remove pins. if the bit drifts you can do a lot of damage.

+1

That's why I find the little hand/twist drills so safe and effective. Very light pressure and such slow twisting speed (since your turning by hand just like a screw driver) means no dancing, slipping or skipping whatsoever.

Superbleu, please note that the examples I gave links to are 'pen' style drill handles. There are also 'eggbeater' style hand drills - you'll want to avoid these as they'll just reintroduce the threat of dancing/skipping that the 'pen' style handles eliminate.