Spinnin gor Doming pins

[John L]

Does anyone know how a good spinner or whatever they are called, be made? I realize they are merely an upside down crater, with sharp edges for cutting. I have one I bought from a supplier but does not work so hot. Thanks for any info.

 

[Bruce Bump]

I make mine with drill rod in the lathe. Simply drill out the end or use a lathe tool to concave it and heat treat it to full hardness. I like to make several sizes and experiment for the best size for the pin. Use a drill press to spin it until it rounds over and lightly sand the dome untill smooth. Takes abit of practise but worth every minute.

 

[John L]

Thanks very much Bruce. Even I can do that...I think.

 

[redneckswami]

I've got a tool for making domed pins, but I've never been able to get it to work either. (might be doin' it wrong...) You're supposed to just be able to chuck it up in the drill press and go to work. Is there some kind of "technique" to use with the things? Is there maybe a tutorial somewhere that illustrates how to use that tool?

 

[Bruce Bump]

I cut a single slot in a couple of them with a jewlers saw but they didnt seem to cut any better than just the smooth ones. It takes some time to form them and some pressure also I use mine on nickel silver pins because they form nicely. I havent had very good luck with stainless pins.

I glue the pin in the finished handle and cut it off and grind it flat to about 1/16" before spinning. Be sure to practise on a couple in scrap stock to achieve the proper length. Do not overheat and burn a circle around the pin.

Here is one with 1/16" nickel pins. There is some super glue around them that still needs to be cleaned up.