What’s your go-to method for popping out brass rivets?

[EmmetRC'25]

Been wrestling with brass rivets on a leather wallet project trying to extract them safely. What tools or techniques do you recommend to ensure no harm comes to the leather?

 

[WindWhisperer50]

Patience is key, my friend! how about trying gently wiggling them back and forth while applying slight upward pressure. Sometimes they'll slowly work their way out

 

[Rebel Dave]

I use a hand drill and drill them out. I center punch the flattest side, and drill them out using bit about the size of the shank. some times they spin but playing around with the drill will help.

Dave

 

[EmmetRC'25]

Both approaches are good ways to handle it. If gentle wiggling doesn't do the trick I might have to break out the drill and carefully work the rivets lose.

 

[Matthew Williams]

will this work on non brass rivets?

 

[Rebel Dave]

I've used my method on all types of rivets. Just take your time, have the piece well secured and go to it.

Dave

 

[Matthew Williams]

Thanks! ... ive had the pouch (on a Leatherman ... Schweet - great pouch) ... but it's starting to show the years (and the mileage) after about 15 years. Daily use, and hard ... mostly in a paper mill... appreciate the advice

 

[WealthyLepant]

Use a small drill bit (just a shade smaller than the post), drill into the rivet carefully until it loosens, then push it through. Mask off surrounding leather so nothing slips and scratches. Some folks in leather forums say this method is common.

 

[EmmetRC'25]

Thanks for pointing out that drilling works across different rivet types. I noticed both of you mentioned nearly the same approach. @Matthew Williams did you end up trying it on your Leatherman pouch yet or are you still holding off?