Trying to find the best tool to remove labels (1 Viewer)

pokerisfun31

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I know exacto knifes are the best to remove labels but the ones I keep finding are trash and hard to get under the label. I have seen some people with an exacto knife where the blade is in the middle and easy to get under without scuffing up the chip. Anyone have a certain knife they like and could send a link to it or name of the product? Thanks
 
I only use an Xacto for my initial cut to remove the protective laminate layer. Sometimes you may be lucky and the vinyl comes with it. But I switch to a small box cutter blade (has some flexibility) which removes inlays fairly quickly after a good soak in non-acetone nail polish remover (applied with Q-tip only on the inlay, not the whole chip).
 
I bought this one:

IMG_4378.jpeg


https://www.michaels.com/product/x-acto-curve-knife-with-cap-blue-10264250?cm_mmc=PLASearch-_-google-_-MICH_Shopping_US_N_Craft+&+Hobbies_N_PMAX_BOPIS_N-_-&Kenshoo_ida=&kpid=go_cmp-18514199759_adg-_ad-__dev-m_ext-_prd-10264250&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=18511002385&gbraid=0AAAAADkMxxf74KwV7Hz__F07SKzM5yw0a&gclid=Cj0KCQjwxo_CBhDbARIsADWpDH4JiR1TtNts0a5IuUZCdJzF4ZJOrkDOUl3AhPWt6AHHOwq7qbKavs0aAkoXEALw_wcB

And used these jewelry pliers to help remove:
1749363557928.jpeg


I documented my journey here (start backwards though):

https://www.pokerchipforum.com/threads/first-cpc-cash-set-draft-design.102904/page-5

GL!
 
You can get sets with a wide variety of blade shapes which fit into an X-Acto type handle. Forget where I got mine (Harbor Freight?) but this would allow you to try out various methods.

Here’s one I just pulled up on Amazon (not the one I have but similar)…

IMG_0163.jpeg


I think everyone has their own preferred tools and techniques.

And on top of that it seems like inlays vary a lot—how tough the glue is, whether the laminate and sticker come off together, etc. Every new chip type is its own (often frustrating) adventure, with its own learning curve.

For me, the challenge with removing tougher inlays is getting it started — making an initial cut or crosscut that goes deep enough to allow the non-acetone nail polish remover to seep underneath. But not such a deep cut that it damages the clay.

Once the liquid gets under, it usually allows for you to start prying layers up. Then another application of NANPR… And lifting with a knife tip or tweezers. Lots of trial and error with each batch, for me anyway.
 
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Is there a difference between CPC and Paulson, here? I heard CPC inlays pop off, but that wasn’t my experience with some H-mold trials. I’m thinking I might attack somewhere between 600 and 950 CPC LCrowns.
 
I too struggled with a standard xacto blade. Too thin and wanted to bend or break under the pressure.
I use a single-edge razor blade or utility knife blade and make a small cut (1/4” to 3/8”) from one edge:
IMG_5933.jpeg

And then a small chisel (bear with me). I push the chisel lightly into the cut, and with a little twist, pry up one of the corners and I can grab with needle-nose pliers.
IMG_5934.jpeg

The label usually peels off without much issue.
 

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