Spinning a Pin and Thickness of Slackner

[survivor711]

I have my first trapper put together for a kit and trying to determine how to Spin the Middle Pin. I have looked at it long enough and need help cause it doesn't appear like I can figure it out. I have a couple of books but all I see are homemade shafts for spinning and no instructions how to make one.

Also how thick should the slackner be?

I really appreciate any help! Thanks, Survivor711

[Ringmaster]

Hi Survivor,

You can make a head spinner out of a punch, with a small round needle file. You'll need a punch the same size as your pin, of course - just file a groove thru the end of the punch.

I use an old junky feeler gauge for my slackener. I start out with .015". Then, if the blades are loose, just change to .010" and give it a couple of taps.

I'm not a "pro", but I've done a few. Muskrat Man can probably give you a more detailed instruction.

G'luck,

JR

[survivor711]

Whow I watched and gave up. Thanks for the information. I did finally find one at Janske.

[muskrat man]

you can also peen the pin carefully with a lightweight ball peen hammer, making spinners is kinda complicated, or at least i've found it to be, I have a spinner made by Tom (Camco) and it works excellent. As far as slackeners go I use a feeler guage as well. I start with .009 and if there is play I use a .006 or .007 I like things to be nice and tight on my knives but still work smoothly, I hate slop. I used aviation snips to cut a notch in the end of the feeler guage so it would slide in around the pivot pin.

[orvet]

JR & MM covered it pretty well.

I make spinners out of set screws,

Dale

[Darksev]

Being as I learned from the guys here, My slackener set is also a feeler guage, with notches cut in them to fit around the pin. I usually start at .010 and move down as needed. It depends on the knife. No spinning for me, I peen! Make sure you show us the finished product!

[Diligence]

http://www.allaboutpocketknives.com/kni ... =37&t=6844

all you want to know about pin spinners and more. I've made quite a few for myself....the best ones for 3/32" pins are made out of hex drive bolts, as they already have a nice cup in the bottom. The set screws work great for the 1/16" pins.

J