can someone explain these brass pins

[C Kerley]

I have never built a knife but am really wanting to give it a try.  How is it the brass "peens" and secures the handle?  

I'm imagining you're basically flanging each end of it, but how does one do that?

[SourOwl]

CARLOS - SENT YOU A PM    SOUROWL

[gudspelr]

You can dome them or peen them with a hammer.  I know a guy who has a small hydraulic press that compresses and expands them (mostly for bolsters).  There are also screw together bolt type pins that once screwed together, the head is ground down with the handle and leaves just a flat "pin" look.  Lots of different pins and ways to go about it.

Jeremy

[Philthy]

Peening basically compresses teh pins in length and expands the diameter.  Start by tapering holes with an awl or other flared/tapered tool.  This gives room for the pin to expand.  Grind or cut the pin down short but still exposed above slabs (about 1/8"). Place bottom of pin on anvil or hard service so that the pin isn't just knocked through the hole.  2-3 sharp blows on the pin should expand it.  Turn over and repeat on other side.  Grind/file remaining exposed pin down flush.

[C Kerley]

Ok, I had basically the right idea that you said Philthy.  Looks like it's time to just jump in and give it a try!

[TheBigRedArcher]

And when you think it needs one more hit to make it "extra" secure... STOP! You may crack your handle material.

At least that's what happens to me.

TBRA