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I like to put it the microwave for about 12 - 15 seconds (NO MORE!) that gets the edges brittle where you can easily snap it with pliers. Firm presure applied. This is for SGC holders only, PSA requires another 20 seconds, But I have had mixed results with the PSA slabs... GOOD Luck
I have had good success (no damaged cards) by using needlenose pliers to crack off a corner (the one farthest away from the card), and then sliding a knife or screwdriver in to carefully separate the top from the bottom.
JimB
What, you don't accept the grading company's opinion
April 14 2008, 3:40 PM
as unassailable?!
First, try using a very small flat-head screwdriver, inserting into the seam and twisting to pry open. Otherwise, I then turn to snipping the corners with a pair of pliers (wear protective eye glasses/goggles)
As Matt mentioned, I used to advocate sawing the case in half, removing the two halves of the card, and then gluing back together, but I have lost too much money on the re-grade. I do, however, now own an impressive collection of otherwise high-value Authentic cards that present miserably!
This message has been edited by smallcapdaddy on Apr 14, 2008 3:40 PM
Put on protective eyewear, then use the dremel blade to saw halfway down the thickness of the slab, right underneath the flip. Cut entirely across the width of the slab. Then stick a flathead screwdriver into the notch you just created, and pry gently upwards. The top part of the slab will pop right off.
Once you've done a couple, the whole process takes seconds, and I've yet to encounter a situation where I even came close to damaging a card.
Wear protective eyewear whenever you're cracking any slab.
Wear protective eyewear whenever you're cracking any slab.
I suggest you NOT insert anything in between the front and back of the slab, so that the card can slide out. Doing that runs the risk of the card getting bent. A low likelihood, but possible.
Lay the slab on a flat hard surface, place a screwdriver along the edge, or a chisel. Tap... and tap your way around until the top and bottom halves separate. Takes a moment longer, but avoids prying and twisting. Having busted bunches of slabs, this works best. I have tried several ways. A near disaster as a screwdriver twisted between the slab halves almost resulted in a bent card for me. Not going to chance that again.
You are correct as to the indestructibility BVG cases, but I have read in the "Living with Microwaves" edition 32 that Sears is coming out with the "Mini Mic" in 2011 specially made to handle BVG holders. I am excited and have locked in a order for three. Hope to sell the other two on ebay for a profit!
I agree Microwave way to silly for me, I only use the “Showtime Rotisserie Card Cracker” I can crack a card and enjoy some delicious slow roasted chicken!
these funny posts remind me of a funny "happening" in the 80's before grading....a dealer had a card listed in SCD(a 1933 goudey Bengough #1 card)...a faxed picture of the card was requested....I believe this was before scanners became available....well the dealer actually inserted the 1933 Bengough card into the fax machine and pressed send...well you can visualize what happened....I still have a hard time believing anyone could be that %#$%...well it takes all kinds I guess..thanks for reading
p.s. gai holders are very tough to open...psa are the easiest by far
edited for error..sorry
This message has been edited by uclakid on Apr 14, 2008 6:47 PM
I've had some PSA holders that shoot a small blast of air from the "welded" seams when you compress the middle with your fingers. Not sure if this is standard as I've only had a few PSAs, but it's safe to say you shouldn't play with them near water
I've had the best luck using a box cutter and taking the blade around the seams of the holder until you break through the seal. Then pry at a corner with a small flathead screwdriver and it should pop right open.
I just toss them out of my window at the empire state building and let gravity do the rest. I'm happy to help anyone out that needs my services, just try not to pick a windy day.
