Im currently attempting to build a lock back pocket knife ive made several fixed blades and thought id try to make a lockblade so far its been very challenging so far so good though im almost to the point of assembly im using quarter inch copper plate for my sides and since i cant seem to find copper eighth inch rod i will be using brass rod my question is after drilling the pin holes in the copper do i barely drill the tops of the holes a little over sized so the pins have room to spread a little or just drill an eighth inch hole and leave the pins a little long peen them then work them down


thanks for the help lord knows i need it:D :D :D

You might try some 8 gauge copper wire - it's just over 1/8" (standard gauge diameter is 0.1285"). Roll it between a couple of hard flat surfaces a bit to make it totally straight (along with bringing the size more in line - and giving it a touch of work hardening).

Usually one wants to put a bit of taper to the entire hole thru the scale, but with a solid metal scale just a bit of countersink at the top should work fine (assuming you're not going to grind the scales down much after peening the pins).

You want to avoid any "slop" in the holes.
The holes need to be straight, clean, deburred, and all the same size.A counter sink hear just flares the edge for the pin swelling. I use a 4:1 taper on mine, and twist it with a pin vise by hand. A drill press can cut too deeply. You will just flare the ends.
I also use wire for copper pins, you may want to choose a different size hole. Also, weld supply houses have bronze rods that are red in tint, get the bare rod.(Tig rod)These come in a variety of sizes.
Hope this helps.

Sheffield knifemakers supply sells copper rod.