Hi Scratch... I use that system with a pair of tapered pliers and as you say just grip and roll over a thin metal surface.

Of course most of the boats with nails reflect the not so good quality of the glues available at the time.

I have a couple of old yachts where the brass nails are so neatly punched in that they are a feature in themselves.
Also of course the real brass screws. Most of the screws sold these days as brass are just plated. I check with a magnet when buying.
regards
Roy

Hi Mick.
Totally agree with the other chaps thoughts.
Always a difficult one this.
I am as we speak refurbishing a similar boat with similar problems.
Luckily most of the nails are brass so not an issue.
However I do have some metal ones and attach a couple of pictures of removal.The small section of brass is to roll the pincers over so as not to damage the hull.
Sorry the pictures are not brilliant but quite small to focus and only got two hands 😂.
The last picture shows successful removal.
Good luck.
Regards
Bill

Hi all, I, like many others, have several pairs of side cutters. But my favourite pair is the one made by Xuron.

Very popular with the model railway fraternity as they can cut through an OO gauge rail cleanly with a shearing action and no cleaning up needed afterwards.
I use them a lot but they are not cheap as £20 is about average. I did manage to find a model shop (in Letchworth) that had them for sale at £13.

One face is as you would expect and the other a shear and the cut is very clean.

I use them a lot but very carefully!
regards
Roy

Hi Mick same suggestion as Colin and Roy, I use a small pair of side cutters for nail removal, accompanied by quite a bit of swearing at times. Generally works 💪

Hi Colin good to know you do restoration! I agree with using the pincers but rather than twist etc. I slide a small piece of metal under the pincers and gently lever up the nail. This avoids leaving marks on the planking.
regards
Roy

Mick that's a very good question and as a vintage boat restorer I often have to do it.
I use a small pair of side cutters to grip the head and gently twist and pull at the same time, I can't guarantee it every time but with patience and the odd swear word I find it the least destructive method.
Cheers Colin.