Removing Pre-Molded Flags

[vcina]

Has anyone had any experience with removing pre-molded flags?  I dislike painting flags and was wondering if there was an easy way to remove the flag?

Thanks.

[snitcythedog]

I usually just remove the whole pole, drill the hand and add a new flagpole.  That is far easier than trying to remove a metal or plastic flag off the pole without damaging it.  My two cents.
Snitchy sends.

[tyrionhalfman]

I agree I'd remove the whole thing and use a wire spear as a new flag pole rather than be left with a damaged pole which might bend or snap mid game after all the effort of trying to carefully remove the flag

[vcina]

Okay. So how do you go about removing the whole flag and pole without damaging the figure too much?

[Mindenbrush]

Essex 15mm figures? Extremely difficult to avoid damaging the figure. If it is Essex 15mm then I would suggest getting a replacement figure - AB or Battle Honours might be the best size wise as Bluemoon are way too tall.

[vcina]

The figures I'm working with are 10mm and the flag is connected to the pole and part of the hat of the figure.

[snitcythedog]

The figures I'm working with are 10mm and the flag is connected to the pole and part of the hat of the figure.

That scale will be difficult at best.  My suggestion would be to use a jewelers saw to carefully remove the flag pole in sections cutting above where it attaches to the body then lining up the blade on the actual pole where it is attached using short cutting actions.  After that use a hobby knife and very fine needle files to clean up.  It is possible but difficult since a figure that small cannot be held in a vise easily and might bend unexpectedly.   
Hope that helps.
Snitchy sends.

[vcina]

Thanks

[vcina]

So I took the plunge and clipped off the flag and drilled out the flag pole with my dremel.  So far everything seemed to go well. I have about a dozen more to do.