Wannabe scale-maker needs hardware help

[jswa2]

Hi there,

Having access to the machine shop at my University, I have planned a summer project for myself making handle scales for a handful of folders -- Benchmade's mostly. I am planing on working with micarta and/or G10, and, while sourcing the handle materials themselves is no problem, I am having trouble finding press-fit thread inserts (EZLok, for instance) similar to what Benchmade uses in their knives' scales. What I am after (I think) is a 2-56 pitch, reverse-type insert with an overall length of 3/32". I have been able to find longer (5/32") inserts with the right pitch, but grinding them down one at a time seems like it would be only marginally successful, and a huge waste of time.

Any help is appreciated!
jswa2

 

[fishface5]

not sure about that. but another approach is to use 2-screw standoffs (takes screws into both sides).

 

[leifjl]

Did you search under Pem nuts?
A lot of times it's nearly impossible to find a manufactured product in the exact length you need. If you have access to a machine shop and can get 5/32" but need 3/32" then make a jig and surface grind them down in batches. It might seem tedious, but in an hour or two you'll have enough to make a hundred pair of scales.

 

[jswa2]

Thanks for the replies. I ended up ordering 5/32" in brass, and a tap. A simple jig shouldn't be too hard to make either - thanks for the tip there, leifjl. Fishface - I will be using thru-threaded standoffs for at least one knife, but am also in need of attaching pocket clips to the scales (hence the super-short insert depth).

Cheers! -jswa2