How do I install the firing pin retainer pin on my Tokarev?

[Prince Yamato]

Exactly as it says. I know I have to depress one end so that it will fit and then expand on the other end, but I can't figure out how to do it. Do I need a special tool? I tried needle-nose pliers. Do I need smaller ones? Is there a certain technique?

 

[mtngunr]

The Tokarevs use nothing but split pins....

Everything you wanted to know about dis/reassembly...
http://www.alpharubicon.com/leo/tokarev213.htm

 

[gb6491]

To install:
What works for me is to use a punch to line everything up. Make sure the notch on the firing pin is facing the top of the slide and depress it enough that the punch will pass through the notch holding the firing pin in place. Then put the split end of the retaining pin on end with the punch and push the punch back out of the slide with the pin (the split end should compress enough to fit inside the hole). Once it is far enough through that the pin retains the firing pin, remove the punch and drive the retaining pin home.

You might find it easier to start the split end of the retaining pin into the slide first; leave it far enough out that you have a blind hole inside the frame. Then use the punch to align everything and proceed as above.

To remove:
You need to make a special punch (not difficult): see this page: http://www.alpharubicon.com/leo/tokarev213.htm

Oops!, I see mtngunr has supplied that link as I typed (and let the dogs out).

Regards,
Greg

 

[Prince Yamato]

So "split pin punch" abbreviated language for, "thing I push the pin into to compress the split end of the split pin". Split pin goes in one side, punch goes through other, they meet, compress the split ends, push through, voila, my pin is in!

 

[wnycollector]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NiUq288bd0w&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWlT3Dwa4j0&feature=related

 

[Prince Yamato]

Problem Solved! All I had to do was hit the pin with a nylon hammer; proving the old adage right:

"Is Soviet... hit with hammer"

 

[Rod B]

wnycollector, Thanks for sharing that excellent video.

 

[wnycollector]

The guy does a great job tearing the tok apart and then putting it back together. A picture (or video in this case) really is worth a 1000 words!