Thread: Tip for newbies (like myself!) filing pins out...

Ones with red handles

In all honesty, I don't really know. I got a roll kit of no-name metal files from eBay. The kit also had about six small files in. I've been using the triangle shaped one as it seemed to bite more and just felt right for the job.

Sent from my GT-I9000 using Tapatalk

I`m using train track cutter. I got one when I was with my son at train models meeting. They are flat and they slide under old washer and cut in second.

this is similar to what I do. I use a small file kit like Killerdr3w referred to and I punched a small hole into a paper card (one of those credit card offer cards that isn't plastic but isn't thin paper) that is thick enough to absorb many missed file strokes. Then I just hold the razor and paper cover with one hand and file with the other.

Some here use a small piece of very thin brass with a hole drilled through, much in the same manner as your masking tape, or even a small sheet made from a tin can. I got a small sheet with some various size holes in it, so they fit nicely over most washers. I find it works a little better than plastic as it gives better protection if your file slips. Oh, beware of sharp edges if using sheet metal, ofc.

Just one notice (totally my personal experience) when removing pins with 1/16" punch... some of scales has European (especially imported one in old days from Germany) size of hole which is not 1/16" but less. It is about 1,5 mm where 1/16" is 1.57mm. I have broke few scales before I figure out this one. I have grind down my 1/16" punch and now works great on everything :-)

This has been posted before, it works even better with one piece of tape right on top of the pin.
Electrical tape works great it is thick and protects the scales very well.