Anatomy of a Trigger Bar

[Neil Young]

Rich:
I really like your trick of using a magnetized steel rod to hold tiny pins for insertion. I have always tried to use a pair of needle nose pliers to hold the pin, with mixed results. Good tip!

[sheepherder]

Originally Posted by Neil Young

Rich:
I really like your trick of using a magnetized steel rod to hold tiny pins for insertion.

It's a very weak magnetism. I think if it was any stronger it would pull the pin in sideways...

[ithacaartist]

Originally Posted by sheepherder

It's a very weak magnetism. I think if it was any stronger it would pull the pin in sideways...

Problem solved: Center drill a pocket for the pin in the end of the magnetized rod with a #55 drill. Your rod can be powerfully magnetic and still keep the pin pointing the right way. You'd use this to start the pin, then the brass punch to set if flush. Needle nose pliers, tiny vise grips, locking forceps are all handy in certain circumstances, but they will all tend to mark the pin when applied.