Thread: Whats the deal with pins?

I know from a manufacturing aspect I'm sure its simply a cost thing, but why do a lot of the custom razors (made and restored) use pins? Why not use screws so the razor can be easily disassembled for cleaning and maintenence?

You know...I've wondered the same thing....

I believe there is a member here who uses mini hex key screws much like on folding pocket knives. I wouldn't mind trying some, but I just have no idea where to get ones in the size that would be needed. The other disadvantage to using screws is that the constant opening closing motion can loosen them. This isn't a problem if the user has the tools to retighten them, but peened pins are much less prone to this problem.

it's always bothered me not being able to disassemble my razors for cleaning, and having to use a hammer to tighten them up.

I've heard that the hex screws are prone to loosening, though the one razor of mine that uses them has stayed perfectly tight for some time now. I love the hex screws.

I agree that screws would be practical - but not quite as visually appealing.

Also, I think you'd have to be careful to avoid over-tightening - but it may be that if you do it right, this wouldn't be much of an issue (possibly cracking the scales or binding the blade).

As for the screw coming loose, some thread adhesive (one of the ligther loctite products for example) would seem to cure this issue.

Overtightning can happen, but the problem can still occur with pins. For almost all my tung oil finished razors, and most of my CA finished razors, I'll put brass bushings in the pin holes to add support to the areas. I imagine the same can be done with screws. Either way, I might like to try some screws (if I can get them), but I'd probably end up sticking with pins.

(Papa Bull) - Robert Williams uses them on the razors he makes and rehandles. You can get these torque screws at a number of online knife shops

http://www.knifekits.com/store/s-pag...main.htm~smain

From what I understand though, is that the amount of the barrel that the screws fit into, that is between the scales, is rather small, and there is not much threading that holds, so while they DO work, it's a bit tricky. Also, not all razors have the same size pivote hole to accomodate the barrel for the torque screws.

A while back I looked into using these torquescrews as well, however,
personally, I prefer the traditional pin design. Maybe because I know how to make them, but also it's MUCH cheaper, it's worked for a few hundred years, and well, it's tradition

BUT that's just my $0.02

C utz