Epoxy and pins?

[Mike22]

So I'm not really finding an answer to this so far by searching old threads. I could have missed it. Sorry if this question has been asking many times. I'm ready to attach my G10 scales to my knife an it occurred to me which should be done first epoxy then install pins but when should I peen the pins before the epoxy dries or after? This only my 2nd knife. Just thinking about it if I peen before the epoxy I could squeeze to much epoxy out. Or I could peen after it dries but then I could be putting stress on the dried set epoxy. I am probably over thinking this. I am using G flex if this make a difference. Thanks for the help guys.

Mike

 

[Fochops]

What sized pins are you using? I do the pins and scales all why epoxy is wet. I don't peen my pins. Just grind with the scales to finished product. The pins just help with "shearing" so the scales stay in place. Clamp the scales tight and you shouldn't have a problem.

 

[Fish30114]

Fochops method will definitely work, but I peen all my pins--I drill my pin holes slightly oversized so epoxy has a place to go--rough up the pins, and peen them after epoxy has set, and I have trimmed the pins down leaving just a tiny bit proud of my scales, I then peen the pins, and then move to sanding my handle scales all the way to a finish level. I think there are probably as many methods as there are makers, but you can do either of these methods--or if you want peen while your epoxy is still wet--your choice sir!!