Legal Compliance
It’s crucial to recognize that while real brass knuckles are illegal in many U.S. states, in my designs, they are permanently integrated into leather with fixed screws into an aluminum bar, making them non-functional as weapons.
The Thread Locker Process
In my design process, I use Thread Locker on screws to ensure a permanent seal. This specialized adhesive is formulated to prevent fasteners from leaking or loosening due to vibration, crucial in maintaining the durability of my creations. Loctite Threadlocker Red 271, which I use, is designed for a more permanent bond. It provides a strong hold, ideal for heavy-duty applications like structural bolts, auto suspensions, frames, or heavy machinery. This industrial-grade threadlocker can only be removed by applying localized heat, specifically heating the parts to 500°F.
To remove this type of Thread Locker, it requires heating the fastener with a blowtorch for a significant amount of time. This process weakens the bond, allowing for the removal of the nut and bolt. This high-strength threadlocker is designed to withstand rigorous conditions, ensuring that once applied, the components remain securely attached unless specific measures are taken to remove them.
For more information on the use and removal of Thread Locker, you can visit Loctite’s guide here.
In addition to securing the brass knuckles to my bags with screws and Thread Locker, I further reinforce them with a layer of epoxy cold weld. This type of epoxy, comprised of resin and hardener, forms an exceptionally strong bond when mixed and applied. Epoxy adhesives are renowned for their high PSI (Pounds Per Square Inch) ratings and superior Shear Strength, ensuring the bond remains intact under multi-directional forces. This durability makes epoxies suitable for various applications, including DIY projects, auto repairs, and crafting.
A notable example is J-B Weld, often referred to as “The Original Cold Weld.” It was developed as a robust alternative to traditional torch welding, capable of withstanding harsh environments. Its two-component system uses reactive chemistry to create the strongest possible bond, comparable to the reinforcing properties of rebar in concrete. Once set, this bond is tougher than steel, making it an ideal choice for ensuring the long-term durability and integrity of my bag designs.
By combining this high-strength epoxy with Thread Locker, I establish a dual bonding system that virtually eliminates the possibility of detaching the brass knuckledusters from the bags. This method not only preserves the structural integrity of the knuckle dusters but also aligns with the artistic vision behind my designs.
Here is a video explaining my process of installing these brass knuckle handles.