Thread: I would like opinions on this method of removing the pin/washers.

I have been mulling this over for a while and I would like the forums opinions on this idea. I think that the peened pins, and the washers could be removed using a soldering iron, if a sufficient temperature could be applied to the area without damaging the scales. What do you guys think?

Most of the pins are made of brass or other metals that are a lot harder than solder. I don't think a soldering iron generates enough heat to melt those metals. If it does get hot enough, it would scorch wooden scales or melt plastic ones. I assume there would also be a problem with melted metal spreading and solidifying on unwanted places.

It's a lot easier to use a file and / or a drill. I like to file pins flat then use a little eggbeater style hand drill to drill out the pins. Then use a punch to lightly force out stuck bits.

I don't know if I'd want to get that kind of heat close to the scales. I personally use a pair of flat cut jewelers snips.

Thank you guys, MinATX - I agree, I was thinking about it, and if celluloid can spontaneously combust ... well lol. I like your way of doing it, I tried to use a dremmel type cutting tool to whizz the top bit off and was not happy with what happened next. There is a tiny scratch on the scale from the washer popping off at such speed. I will try your method

Theseus, I have tried this but when the peened end is within a setting (like on my Wester Bros 34 De-Fi) I can't get cutters anywhere near close enough to cut. Thank you though That was why I was pondering the soldering iron idea.

Thanks guys. ALL ideas are welcome

Besides all the info in the Workshop sticky itself here is a thread on popping pins specifically

http://straightrazorpalace.com/works...-pins-out.html


Soldering iron IMHO would be a very bad idea

Hey Gssixgun, Yeah I read all that, there are some good ideas, I was just curious what people thought. I am the kind of guy who will try anything once, but I wasn't about to try this without first finding out if somebody else had tried it ... and second without other opinions. I think I have resigned this idea to the large scrapheap out back lol! If it were tried I see a small mound of melted (whatever) in the near future ... Thanks guys!

Lately, I just break the scales with a hammer. It's fast and I don't have to go through all the tension, worry, and pain that comes with trying to extract them undamaged.

After seeing someone here suggest using a pair of flush cutting pliers I haven't used any other method since. I bought a pair at Harbor Freight for like $2.99 and they work like a charm. You can find these at hobby or craft stores in the jewelry making section. I just get the cutters under the washer and snip the scales are apart with no damage what so ever to the scales.

I generally file one end of the pin flat then using a very small drift, punch it out. You need to be careful not to file too far or else you will end up ruining your scales.