replacing GEC handle scales?

[fishface5]

I have a 42 lockback and would like to replace the scales with carbon fiber. I know that most of the handle pins are tapered and press-fit in to tiny holes in the liners; I figure I will just have to drill those holes to the full diameter of the new pins since I don't have a lathe to tun down new pins and I want the new pins to be SS instead of brass anyway. The lanyard-tube should be pretty straightforward. But what about the pin through the lock spring, is that a single continuous pin? And are there any other quirks I should be aware of before attempting this? My hope is to do it without disturbing the bolsters if at all possible . . . thanks for any info!

 

[Markesharp]

The backspring pin is one pin. I use a dremel cut-off wheel prependicular to the pin and grind the peened head on both sides and drive it out with a punch far enough to grab it and pull it out with pliers. On the scale pins you want to grind the peen heads of the same way and use a punch to drive them out being careful not to bend the liners. Go slow. That is the easy part. Re-assembly is another animal. Hope this helps, good luck.

 

[fishface5]

ok thank you!