material for HP pins

Kevin Stenberg

Well-Known Member
I was browsing on Evil Bay for HP pin material. And I was wondering which will serve be best. I found A. Oil hard drill rod B. Water hard drill rod C. Air hard drill rod D. Oxygen free copper E. Brass 360 rod F. Brass 260 rod
I will be using my drill press for all sizing operations. And using .125 dia. material. Kevin
 

Brad

Benevolent Overlord and site owner
Staff member
Brass would work, I have used it. Just make sure it is oxidized well to prevent soldering.
Any steel would work, it isn’t a structural part. I would use what you can get cheap. I think Buckshotnised the shanks of old drill bits
 

KeithB

Resident Half Fast Machinist
The only HP mold I made used cut off stainless steel bolts for pins. Guaranteed not to stick/solder. And cheap at the hardware store. Of course Brad is right, any steel should work fine. Other stuff too but not really necessary.
 

Kevin Stenberg

Well-Known Member
Thanks! I think I will try a 6 penny nail and see how it goes before I order anything.
Well I just got done with the pin. A lot of sanding time. But the pin came out the exact dia. of the original. I made it double ended for a cup and flat point.
 

JWFilips

Well-Known Member
I inherited a large batch of dull drill bits from the 1950-60's
I find the right diameter I need then use a Dremel with cut off wheel to remove the shaft. I spin these up in my drill press and shape with files and Emory
These work great for my rifle bullet moulds
 

Ian

Notorious member
Hillman makes stop collars in all sorts of sizes, I get them from my local hardware store for HP pin shanks. An added benefit is it makes the spud somewhat depth-adjustable.