Mike,

I'm not sure if this will work, but will investigate the idea.  The metal
piece, whatever it's name is, is pretty solidly in place, even with
numerous leather washers having already disintegrated and long since having
been lost.  However, that may be simply because of it being swaged into
place like John Manners describes.  It might come loose with a but if a
tap.   At this point, still being involved in the storm recovery, and power
to our house still not restored, I have bigger fish to fry at three
moment.  Maybe next week I can give it a try and provide an update to the
list.

Doc
On Jan 25, 2012 6:58 AM, "Mike Hamilton"  wrote:

> Doc says:
> ...I think my biggest challenge is going to be filing off the
> original peening in order to remove the metal cap in order to install new
> leather washers.  The trick being to fill it off without undue damage to
> the knife.
>
> I'm wondering if the removal of the leather washers (first and
> destructively) might allow the metal cap to move enough toward the
> blade to allow access with file or hammer.  Just curious, 'cuz I have
> no clue what shape the tang is likely to be.
>
> Regards,
> Mike
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