Zen_Hydra
Moderator
Born with a heart full of neutrality
Posts: 2,631
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Post by Zen_Hydra on Apr 19, 2024 13:52:03 GMT
This used to be a thing a while back, and as someone likes to assemble custom katana outside the typical range of mass, I like having the extra security of such a retaining pin. I understand that I can grind brass mekugi out of round stock, but I'd prefer to source pre-fabricated copper-alloy mekugi if they are still available for a reasonable price.
Please share any current sources of brass/copper-alloy mekugi if you have any.
Thank you.
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Post by larason2 on Apr 19, 2024 16:07:35 GMT
Just buy some brass rod stock. Say 1/4 inch brass round bar. I buy from Metal Pros, but they are in Canada. There's tons of retailers that sell online in the US though. Brass is really nice to work with. I'd never use anything but the aged bamboo, but different strokes!
It can be shaped with a file really easily and cut with a hack saw, so I say it doesn't make sense to pay any more for anything pre shaped.
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Post by Cottontail Customs on Apr 19, 2024 21:56:57 GMT
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Post by Arlequin on Apr 19, 2024 22:55:20 GMT
Concur with CT on Delrin. Metal pins rust and deform and just generally become much more of pain than theyre worth down the line, there's a reason certain design philosophies survive for so long. But hey, if it's a cheap beater blade you have no intention of upkeeping, be my guest.
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tera
Moderator
Posts: 1,662
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Post by tera on Apr 20, 2024 6:48:50 GMT
I was thinking delrin, too. I plan on using that with my budget custom tsuka for improved safety.
FWIW, in the firearms world delrin is sold as a recoil buffer for Ruger 10/22s (to reduce bolt noise) and also used as impact tools (punches, hammer faces) as it can withstand heavy impact and flex stress without marring the metal it interfaces with. Been using the same delrin gunsmith punches for over 15 years now.
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Post by larason2 on Apr 20, 2024 19:35:39 GMT
I agree Delrin sounds like a good idea. The problem with all the soft metals including Brass is they tend to deform when you try to shove them in a small hole, and occupy the space. This is fine if you're using them as a brass pin to hold together a knife, but sometimes you have to destroy them to get them out (they won't fit back out through the same hole!). Last summer I was learning to put brass pins in a folding knife, and sometimes it's a lot easier to get them in than get them out! So everything has pros and cons.
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