Mainspring Vise

[majg1234]

A thread on the site made me start thinking.i've got 3 flintlocks now and probably will get at least a couple more :surrender: Do I need to get a vise and some mainsprings for them (just in case)???? If so what kind of vise do I need. All my current locks are Siler I believe.What do you learned types recomend.

 

[Stumpkiller]

Up to you. I carried a spare mainspring in my pouch (and small vice) for 15 years and finally decided it was not worth the weight and trouble. On a once-in-a-lifetime hunt I might reconsider, but now the vice stays in a drawer and I don't own any spare springs for my current locks.

I have an old TVM like this one. (I don't think they're still in business but Track of the Wolf carries an identical model). I replaced the original Allen Head pivot bolt with an old square head I had in a glory jar.

 

[jhenry1728]

I'm on the fence on this. If I do more lock work, I would get a spring vise. For the time being, I've used a set of vise grips and some leather.

 

[rabjr]

Get a spring vise, you don't have to keep it in your hunting bag but you should have one at home for anytime you work on locks. Your lock makers wouldn't be happy to know your using vise grips to disassemble their locks.

 

[majg1234]

Thanks ....and thanks for the move was not sure where to post it.I think I'll get one and a replacement spring or two 'cause even with my CF stuff I keep a few parts so that if something were to become broken the the firearm doesn't become an expensive club :grin:

 

[dave_person]

Hi,
Stumpkiller's mainspring vise is a good one but better are those in which the the smaller jaw can rotate to fit the angle of the leaves of the spring. That is particularly helpful for frizzen springs. Never, ever use vise grips.

dave

 

[JohnN]

I always carry an extra mainspring and sear spring along with a vise. Was at an event once, and on the first pull of the hammer the mainspring broke. They're not that heavy and dont take up much room.