G10 pin stock vs Micarta

J

J Lensmire

Knifemaker / Craftsman / Service Provider
Joined
Oct 30, 2021
Messages
209
I have only used paper micarta pin stock as my non-metallic option. How does G10 compare?
I have a tendency of breaking the micarta, especially 1/8”, when attaching scales. I don’t know if I’m fracturing when cutting to length, need to drill oversized holes etc.
So would G10 help alleviate some of these issues?
 
Paper Micarta pins are a bit more fragile than G10. Try using a piece of scrap handle material with a combination of different sized holes.
Remember each material will drill different sized holes with the same bit. Called tear out.
Try rounding the end of the pin a bit and lubing it with glue before insertion, if your having to pound the pins in the hole is too small,
All this info is covered in the Tips and Tricks section at the top of this forum,
 
Just to add to what Hankins said, you might benefit from some number drill bits (wire guide) instead of your usual fractional drill sizes. The numbers correlate to very specific sizes that allow you to drill holes with the exact tolerance. For example, using an 1/8" drill bit for an 1/8" rod actually doesn't leave enough room for the rod, so you'd have to force it into the hole, running the risk of blowout. But if you were to use a #30 drill bit for that same rod, you'd end up with a hole 0.003" bigger, which is just right for a nice clean, easy fit with no gap.
 
It's hard to drill precisely sized holes with drills and a drill press. For 1/8 pins, drill .116 (#32), ream .126. Should leave you .001 for a slip fit and glue joint.
 
These are the days I wish my grandfather was still around, considering he was a member of IAMAW member from the mid 30’s - late 70’s. I still remember the ingrained smell of cutting oil in his basement shop. With his open belt drive lathe, drill press etc. a kids paradise. Now days probably have social services knocking on the door for child endangerment
 
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