Driving pins in a Action

[AWLEAPHART]

I must be just bad at it or not using the right punch set.I always end up with a Scratch on the action. Just after I painted it .
Any pin setting mentors out there?
A Leaphart

 

[jepp2]

Any pin setting mentors out there?

I'm far from an expert. But many years ago, I picked up a set from Brownells replaceable pin punch set. I use the short pins as much as possible. Just easier to make sure the punch stays on the pin. Mine are much shorter than the lengths they offer now, but you could always make your own shorter pins. I also wear a magnifying visor and a 4 oz. hammer. I watch very carefully to make sure I am square on the pin with the proper size punch.
https://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-...nsmith-replaceable-pin-punch-set-prod545.aspx

 

[TAJ45]

How solid is your set up? Does it rock with your tap, hammer blow? Gotta be 100% rigid for best results.

 

[jds holler]

Half the battle is in holding the action in a proper vice, or with good blocking.

Don't lay the danged thing in your lap and beat on it with a framing hammer.

I like to have about three different hammers; medium, small, and smaller. jd

 

[Toolbreaker]

Put a few strips of heavy tape all around the pin hole first. If you glance off the pin, it'll protect the action from foul language . Also, block & hold the action securely like JD said.

 

[AWLEAPHART]

Thanks everyone. I think I need a solid hold on the action barrel.

 

[hogpatrol]

Use a bigger diameter punch to get it started. Also some hard woods or a brass punch work too.

 

[Dusty Stevens]

I never would have thought this was an issue. If the paint is too thick use a chucking reamer by hand. Id venture to say if its thick enough to beat up an action with a punch youll have other issues with it too.

 

[AWLEAPHART]

I never would have thought this was an issue. If the paint is too thick use a chucking reamer by hand. Id venture to say if its thick enough to beat up an action with a punch youll have other issues with it too.

Paints not too thick?? I just end up scratching the paint with the punch.

 

[Gun Smith]

For 1/8" pins, you can put a dimple in the end of a hardened punch by chucking it up in a collet or accurate chuck in a lathe. Then use a 1/8"" carbide drill bit or a carbide ball end mill to put a slight rounded dimple in the end of the punch. This keeps the punch from rolling off the pin. Works for any size punch over 1/8" too, if you have a proper selection of
carbide drills. Smaller punches could also be done, though 1/8" is I small as I recall ever doing. Still might ding the pin end finish, but better that than the action surface.

A carbide insert lathe tool might work too to cut into a hardened punch to make a rounded end? Some W-1, or O-1 drill rod can also be used to make you own dimpled punch,
then harden the ends and draw to about a light straw color. Best of luck! Joe