How strong do handle pins have to be?

[clcuckow]

Hi All,

I was wondering how strong handle pins need to be as I was thinking of using insulated PCB spacers.

http://www.christopher.cuckow.dsl.pipex.com/pics/roundel.jpg

They have brass inserts in the ends (they don't go all the way though) and are surrounded by what looks and works like black ABS which I think looks like ebony and give a nice roundel.

Does the pin need to be strong along the entire length or just at the shear line?

Thanks,

Christopher

[Colin KC]

Hi Christopher,
The pins don't have to be all that strong, depending on the type of knife/style of handle.

If it was, say a bushcraft knife, then I would say, prolly not a good idea, as they take a bit of pounding.

But, a general purpose (not for bashing) knife I'd say the important thing is to get a strong epoxy bond (drill the tang & inside of the handle material, make sure that both are perfectly clean (use spirits of some kind) & make sure the (most important) pins are structurally perfect (any imperfections can be a weak point) & the shear point is absolutely tight & clean)

[clcuckow]

It was for Trond's FELLESKAP blade when it arrives so it looks like I will be looking for something stronger. I was trying to think out of the box as I have not found any uk suppliers for Loveless Fasteners like they sell at Texas knifemaker's supplies.

[Dave Barker]

Lot of people use round nickle silver pins. I don't know, but i would imagine that the pins used are only short so they should stand a bit ( BUT ... don't quote me on that!) :p