de-pinning: hand tools

[VTnyc]

What hand tools should I use to remove the pins from a razor that I want to preserve the scales from? I tried flush cutters but I was wondering if there was a better way. The flush cutters slightly marked the scales. I do not own any power tools.


I have never been good at handiwork that required a delicate touch. I excel at demolition. However I really enjoy trying the restorations. I've become addicted to looking at all the photos and watching the videos you guys post. I'm amazed at the projects you guys do. Thanks for the inspiration to challenge my skill set.

 

[Doc226]

You can file the pins flush with a regular file. Place some electrical tape over the pin to protect the scales. The file with cut the tape and find the pin.

Flush cutters do often scuff up the surface.

 

[VTnyc]

Thank you. That seems so obvious now that you said it. I had started thinking about a hack saw. Fortunately I have electrical tape and some files.

 

[buca3152]

Or tape and use a dremel with a sanding disk. Slow and no pressure.

 

[Alum of Potash]

Doc's advice about a (small) file and electrical tape is good. Following it, I'll add two more items: a light (2 oz.-4 oz.) ball-pein hammer and a narrow narrow punch. Don't try to remove the pin completely with the file for starters. If you go too far here you may hit the scales, even with the tape. Rather, file it a bit and try to lightly tap the pin free with the hammer and punch. Repeat with the file and hammer/punch until the pin breaks free. A small anvil (or block of steel, or even a hard block of wood) with a receiving hole for the pin will also be useful here. Once the pin starts to come loose, you can then pull it out with flush cutters, etc.

 

[daflorc]

I just want to reiterate the importance of a small receiving hole for the pin, as Alum of Potash says... This can be the difference between a successful disassembly and a cracked scale...

 

[pmaster]

If you don't have a punch of the right size, I've had luck using a small nail about the same size of the pin, with the tip filed flat to punch the pin through.

 

[VTnyc]

I'll have to keep an eye out for some small punches. In the meantime I may try the nail idea. Thank you for the suggestions guys.

 

[haza]

an hand drill, a right drill point, a light hammer to
push out the old pin when finished with the drill