I've got a new extractor for my old Buckmark I'd like to install, but before I go doing that, I need to know whether the roll pin I have to remove can be reinstalled.

If not, then I need to find a replacement before I go punching the old, more or less functional, extractor out.

So can I reuse a roll pin after it's been punched out?

If you didn't deform it, yes. It's spring steel, the pin compresses like a spring and the split in the side gives it the space to compress.

On something like a .22 it likely popped out very easily and the pin saw little to no actual stress.

Can and should are two different things. For a range only? Yeah, sure. For a self defense pistol? They’re cheap. Replace them.

For an extractor on a .22, reuse unless damaged.

quote:

Originally posted by GaryBF:
For an extractor on a .22, reuse unless damaged.

Absolutely

In this instance, its probably the first "reuse" cycle. If you've got the proper size punch to drift it out and then back in, go for it. Non firearm roll pins can be reused dozens of times. But at some point, you've got to bite the bullet, so to speak, and replace it with a new one.

Then I'd be much more willing to reuse one from Sig or Browning than one from Hi-Point.

generally not, my limited experience with them is they are disposable items. pop one out, goes in the trash, put in a new one. more or less.

Use a roll pin punch so it won't be damaged and reuse it.

quote:

Can a roll pin be reused?

If its gap isn't smashed shut, it isn't bent, or other damage, and not for something your life depends on, sure. Second the roll pin punch. A regular pin punch can damage the tip of the pin.

I've removed/installed hundreds of roll pins with a roll pin punch and regular punch with no issues. Some have been reused several times.