knife rescaling

[Henry_L]

I have a couple of Barlow knives I want to rescale. Once the old scales are removed I'd guess it's not good to reuse the pins.

Is there a standard pin size for pocket knives? If not how do you gauge?

Thanks all.

 

[REK Knives]

I would use a caliper to check once you get it apart

 

[Signalprick]

Calipers.

 

[Drew Riley]

3/32 to 1/8 is probably a pretty good guess for many, but a set of calipers is the best way. Just make sure you're measuring a good spot, as the ends are often peened larger, or there might be wear in the middle, so you might have to average the readings a bit.

 

[Hengelo_77]

or re-ream the hole to a known size and use that size pin stock

 

[Signalprick]

I ream GEC up to 3/32 but to do it with Case, namely CV steel you'll need to use carbide bits and fast speed. If your using carbide bits I'd highly recommend secure work holding for your blade and a very accurate drill press or you'll have an exploded drill. Another option, but it sucks IMO is to buy larger size pin stock and sand it down to size. I've done this a couple times early on by chucking it in my dremel.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

I'm guessing by Henry's question he doesn't have any of the equipment or skills you guys are recommending.

Henry,
Fill out your profile with your location and some info and maybe a nearby maker will help you.
BTW, opening three threads on this knife repair project isn't a good idea. Pick one and close the others or ask me and I will close them.

 

[TheEdge01]

I have a couple of Barlow knives I want to rescale. Once the old scales are removed I'd guess it's not good to reuse the pins.

Is there a standard pin size for pocket knives? If not how do you gauge?

Thanks all.

I’m rescaling an old German Barlow myself. As your can see, I have my work cut out for me. My original pins appear to be fine, so I’ll probably just leave them alone and epoxy the scales on.

 

[Henry_L]

I'm guessing by Henry's question he doesn't have any of the equipment or skills you guys are recommending.

Henry,
Fill out your profile with your location and some info and maybe a nearby maker will help you.
BTW, opening three threads on this knife repair project isn't a good idea. Pick one and close the others or ask me and I will close them.

Think I'm set Stacy -- ok to delete the threads.