removing handle scales

[deltablade]

I plan to replace the handle scales on a western bowie knife with a different type of wood. The scales are pinned with brass pins. what is the best way to remove the scales?

 

[StretchNM]

I think I'd drill the pins with a bit size just a tad smaller than the pin diameter (or the same size but don;t drill all the way through - drill from both sides halfway). The I'd use a mallet to strike downward on the scales with the knife resting on it's spine and, flipped over, again with the knife on it's belly (protecting the edge, of course). You'll have to break the wood to blade epoxy bind.

 

[Bill DeShivs]

Just drive them out, if you aren't worried about damaging the scales. They aren't epoxied on.
Bill

 

[deltablade]

thanks guys

 

[GuardGuy]

And if scales are epoxied on?

 

[popcornpicker]

Since putting a knife in a dishwasher is destructive to epoxy, boiling it in water should help with removal. Be careful that it doesn't lay against the bottom because the direct heat could affect the temper of the blade.

 

[Bill DeShivs]

Popcornpicker is correct. Boiling in water and rapping sharply with a mallet should remove them, after the pins are removed.
Bill

 

[Seals]

Put a thin blade between the scale and the tang and tap it in to separate.

 

[richard j]

the dishwasher method works well. i'm repairing a knife that was put in one.