assistance to disassemble blc gasmask bino

[Michael Downey]

I am looking for help to remove the prism plate from this blc gasmask bino.

I initially thought that removing the three screws was all that was needed.

After removing the screws the prism plate would not budge. I am now thinking that the ocular barrel is actually screwed into bino housing.

Would be grateful if knowledgeable members could:

1. confirm that the barrel is in fact screwed into the bino housing; and

2. I have taped the barrel so as to give a better grip, but I still cannot turn the barrel by hand. Welcome any suggestions as to the best "tool" to use to remove the barrel. I had thought of a large hose clip, but am concerned that this might damage the barrel.

Look forward to hearing from you.



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[Sgt Bilko]

Hi Michael - removing the three screws on some WW1 Zeiss would allow the plate to move up and be revolved without disturbing the ocular barrel. But this was found to be less effective in providing a weatherproof seal.

On the GM blc you need to remove the barrel too. An ideal tool is a Boa Constrictor. I have several and they're indispensable in bino repair. Good luck!

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Misc-Boa-Co.../dp/B0001P0EUA

[Michael Downey]

Hi Michael - removing the three screws on some WW1 Zeiss would allow the plate to move up and be revolved without disturbing the ocular barrel. But this was found to be less effective in providing a weatherproof seal.

On the GM blc you need to remove the barrel too. An ideal tool is a Boa Constrictor. I have several and they're indispensable in bino repair. Good luck!

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Misc-Boa-Co.../dp/B0001P0EUA

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Hello there Sgt Bilko. 1,000 thanks indeed for both your confirmation and referral! I jumped straight on to eBay and purchased the same:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/BOA-BOABAB...gAAOSwnNBXbOa5

Hard to believe that a plastic device can be rated with 2,000 lbs of pressure. I will let you all know how I get on. Thanks again.


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[Sgt Bilko]

Happy to help Michael - it's the same idea as oil filter strap wrenches on cars. Less expensive copies are available but I've broken a few in my time and now use them only for opening pickle jars.

[amberjake]

Hi Michael,yes the boa strap is the way to go,if you look on you tube there are a couple of videos

[Michael Downey]

Hi Michael,yes the boa strap is the way to go,if you look on you tube there are a couple of videos

Hello there. Many thanks for your confirmation.


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[me6_130]

Good to know that. I'm always looking for tools to fix my things

Carles

[Michael Downey]

Hi Michael - removing the three screws on some WW1 Zeiss would allow the plate to move up and be revolved without disturbing the ocular barrel. But this was found to be less effective in providing a weatherproof seal.

On the GM blc you need to remove the barrel too. An ideal tool is a Boa Constrictor. I have several and they're indispensable in bino repair. Good luck!

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Misc-Boa-Co.../dp/B0001P0EUA

what a great tool ... the ocular tube and assembly unscrewed with virtually no effort whatsoever - thanks again for your help



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[Mikedenmark]

Yes, I gonna get myself one too.

But always remember, if possible, to check for fixing screws before unscrewing anything. But that may be a WWI and pre WWI item issue.

[Sgt Bilko]

Hi Michael - so glad to have been able to help. I first used it for Royal Navy Barr and Stroud but now find I can't do without it.

Mikedenmark's advice to watch out for grub screws is good though. Even in WW2, British and Japanese binos have them - hence the number of Japanese binos that come cross threaded - the little screw still firmly in place.

[zeissasembi]

In the old days they did use this one : Rolyn snake plier
http://playroom.tumblr.com/post/4463...eplier-sz4-pat

[Sgt Bilko]

Looks good but no doubt expensive. A WW2 British Army repair manual I have shows a strap attached to a batten (much like the Boa Constrictor).

It would be nice to find a box of vintage optical tools but most will probably be binned as no-one would recognise their usefulness.

[lucalocatelli]

Thank you Sgt Bilko for sharing this useful info!


Luca