What would be the best way to cut a hypo needle for use as a machine gun on a LAV 25, in order to not deform the needle? These are older stainless steel needles.
Hey Edward … first of all … welcome to FSM.
[#welcome]
Probably the best way to cut needles is with a Dremel rotary tool with a cutting wheel. This will give you the cleanest cut.
Just a question about using the needle for replacing the 7.62 though … are you going to lose any details by using the needle tip for the gun barrel?
You can use a metal file with an square or triangle shapes, after you cut, smooth it with sandpaper; I used this before and it works fine.
Robert
Thanks for the welcoming.
Yes I will loose the detailing at the business end of the barrel as this part broke off during removal from the sprue and that was w/ an acutal honest to goodness sprue cutter. I also think the needle will be just a litlle out of scale (larger) than I would prefer.
Thanks in advance for any additional tips.
blessings,
Ed
Depending on what gauge needle you’re using, you could insert a stiff copper wire to “take up space” inside the hollow part of the needle, and then cut with a Dremel. Then remove the wire. That way, the thin edges of the needle do not bend during cutting. Probably will only be practical for 23G and larger. -Dr. Shamrage
Edward -check with the gang in the Armour Forum … someone in there may have an extra laying around that they can send you.
Hi Edward, The Dremel with a cut of wheel will do the job, but here is an alternative method that works great. Put your tube stock on a firm but pliable like a cutting mat. Take a hobby knife with a blade that’s cuitting edge is staight. Roll the tubing by running the knife blade across it. The blade will score the tubing as it rolls it. Make sure to sight down the blade and keep it perpendicular to the tubing. The blade moves in a linear motion and the tubing should roll freely. Use steady even pressure. By the way if you need a good supply of tubing and structual shapes in stainless, copper, various plastics, and brass-look here! http://www.smallparts.com/ never look for tubing again! [swg]
Thank you all for the help.
I cutting wheel in the Dremel worked great!
Ed
Should be: A cutting wheel in the Dremel…
Ed