Does anyone know where I can buy pin punches to remove the 3 pins in a S&W revolver trigger? The one that retains the trigger lever looks to be about 3/64" in diameter, and the other 2 pins for the hand spring look to be about 1/32"
All of the sets at Brownells and on Amazon start at 1/16". I have one of this size and it is way too big. Help!
John....you may need to soak the area of the trigger where the pins are located in some of your favoite penetrant for a while before attempting to remove these particular pins. They can be tough. Also, wear safety glasses.
BTW, I have on occasion taken spare Starrett punches and ground them down to a smaller diameter for the first inch or so to tackle small pins. You need not grind down the entire length and I would advise a taper to the stock diameter about an inch after the point to maintain as much strength and rigidity as possible. You can actually make a cup at the end also. I have a Foredom tool and a good quality set of miniature Carbide Burrs. If the punch isn't too small a cup can easily be added. Just make sure to remove any sharp burrs before using.
If you have a Belt Grinder and a somewhat steady hand they come out relatively round and descent enough to get the job done in jiffy. In the case of Starrett Punches, the body is already round in shape so you can chuck them into a drill and reduce the diameter while it is spinning, which makes it much easier to keep them almost perfectly round.
While I do refrain from grinding up a complete set of Starrett Punches, they are easily replaceable one at a time to re-complete the set. I usually only do this as a last resort when in a bind and I want to get the job done right then and there. I also do have a few spare Starrett's (especially in the small sizes) where they are more prone to break. I have made a few custom sizes over the years.
One other hint is to place your pistol block and trigger on a concrete slab, like a garage slab, which will not flex when struck. Works especially well with staked pins.
Again, thanks to all who responded. I do appreciate the help. I've ordered the necessary cup tip punches from Brownells and the trigger is soaking in a 50-50 mix of ATF and acetone.
