There is another method, known as dove-tailing. Start with attaching
to the ends of cable, cylinders of any metal you wish, since
hallmarking is not the issue. The cylinders must be split, but not
completely. let’s say 5/6 of the length, and they should be the same
diameter as cable. Prepare your end-caps. For this method they must
be somewhat conical, and the narrowest part been the entrance.
Entrance also should fit over cylinders snugly.
Insert into each split a small wedge of the same metal as cylinders,
but do not force it in yet. Slide the end-cap over the cylinder and
with mallet tap it in place. The tapping will drive wedge into the
split and at the same time advance end-cap along the cylinder length.
By the time end-cap completely covers the cylinder, the wedge will
spread cylinder inside the cap and firmly secure it.
A warning. This is no second chances method. Dimensions of cylinders,
caps, wedges, must be precise. Once you start tapping cap in place,
there is no way back, so verify you dimensions several time before
starting.
Leonid Surpin
www.studioarete.com