Magazine base pins
 

I need to put a repro wood base on an original magazine; the existing pin is pretty nasty, (and I suspect a 'back yard' job, to short, with a mushroomed head).

Is there anything 'special' about a correct pin or is it easier just to cut an appropriate piece of metal to the right length ?

Thanks, Stu

Check out this discussion:

Magazine Base Pin Discussion

--Dwight

Dwight! I was hoping that this link showed how to put on the repro wood base, :D

I too have that chore, will put it on a newer magazine that has a plastic base I bought off of e-bay with four other magazines.

Ed

I would suggest that soft steel would work well. The pin is only holding the base in place and taking the spring tension. A brass or copper pin would also work and give notice of the replacement. But I would not keep it the pistol for long periods as you may get some corrosion from these metals.

How about compressing the spring, putting something like a 6D finishing nail through the hole on the side and the opening on the otherside (the one where the spring shows through). That will keep the spring in place while you work on the bottom. Look for the smallest head on the existing pin and punch it out. Find a nail that fits the hole in both the tube and the wood bottom and cut one end. Flatten a head on that end and then insert to measure for length (giving a little for a new head on the other side). Cut and insert into the assembly. Find an appropriate small punch and create a head. Be carefull not to miss with the punch and make sure that the first head that you created is on something solid before punching. Remove the 6D nail that held the spring back and admire your work. Anyway, thats my plan.
Big Norm

Hello to all! I have some newly made pins that are made to EXACTLY the same specs. as the originals! The ends are surfaced ground same as the originals, and they are dark blue! I am selling these pins for $2.50 each, Qty 5 for $10.00, I don't have too many, but let me know if your in need, and I'll get you fixed up with some... I have not been able to again find the correct diameter stock... (First order was through a prototype shop 10 years ago!)so when these are gone, thats it! The next batch will either be a .001" over or under, cuz that's the way the steel industry works, and I can't afford prototype work anymore! So, let me know! till...later...GT
<img border="0" alt="[jumper]" title="" src="graemlins/jumper.gif" /> <img border="0" alt="[jumper]" title="" src="graemlins/jumper.gif" />

Hi GT. Can you put me down for 5 please. let me know where to send the money !

Thanks, Stu

Hi Stu! Check your profile! till...later....GT

I bought some of these from G.T. and they are flawless; nicely blued and, within the accuracy of my instrument (1/100 mm), they are identical to the originals.

Thanks, G.T.

Luke