Removing an anti-theft device.

[Skidsteer]

I found a light pair of nylon pants yesterday at a thrift store but there's a problem.

Apparently they had been donated by another retailer because they have an anti-theft device still attached to the waistband.

Do any of you delinquents know how to remove one of these without tearing something up?

[1Pint]

I found a light pair of nylon pants yesterday at a thrift store but there's a problem.

Apparently they had been donated by another retailer because they have an anti-theft device still attached to the waistband.

Do any of you delinquents know how to remove one of these without tearing something up?

Depends on the type of device. Some have a packet of ink incorporated in the design so the ink will explode on the clothing if the device is tampered with. Others can be easily removed with a pair of plyers and a little squeezing. However, the easiest way is to walk into a regular clothing store with your receipt from the thrift store and ask if that other store will remove it for you. Clerks are used to patrons returning with items still bearing the device. It doesn't happen often but it happens often enough. Having your receipt will smooth things along.

Good luck.

[general]

take a hammer and whack it until it breaks

[otterman]

Just leave it on. It'll make some great stories!

[fitz]

If they were donated to the thrift store by a retail store, the retail store should have removed the tags (price and security). The thrift store might even have the device to remove the tag. In my area it is not uncommon for people to shoplift and then sell them to the thrift stores. some thrift stores do buy items from the public.

fitz

[Alligator]

If you get stuck having to remove it yourself, maybe fashion a split box to slide over the theft device to contain the ink. This would make a great video, please please record .

[Two Speed]

If you get stuck having to remove it yourself, maybe fashion a split box to slide over the theft device to contain the ink. This would make a great video, please please record .

That ain't very nice, but I sure would like to see that video.

[Alligator]

That ain't very nice, but I sure would like to see that video.

Could be an instant youtube hit ... a series...each installment a new attempt at removing the tags...

Whatever you do, please wear safety googles.

[Ender]

Cover the device with a plastic bag to contain the ink, and then take a hacksaw to it.

[Two Speed]

Yep, got the theme for our second episode on youtube. Next!

[Gray Blazer]

Give it to your kids or grandkids and tell them don't remove this tag.

[the goat]

quit stealing clothes, skidsteer!

[Two Speed]

Give it to your kids or grandkids and tell them don't remove this tag.

Now that's just down right mean. Egging a fellow backpacker on to do something silly is one thing, but the grand kids?

BTW, you gonna get a video of that?

[Alligator]

Cover the device with a plastic bag to contain the ink, and then take a hacksaw to it.

That's good too. A little extra shielding under the tag just in case? I was mildly concerned about any force, but it is probably very minimal. Now on my last bank job...

[Michele]

Depending on the type....some use a strong magnet to pull the pin out, so get one of those and try it. If that fails...I always love having an excuse to get out my big hammer! Besides...who cares if a little ink gets on your pants..I bet you'll have much worse on them after hiking for a few days AND nobody can steal your pants without you being able to identify them!

[Alligator]

Depending on the type....some use a strong magnet to pull the pin out, so get one of those and try it. If that fails...I always love having an excuse to get out my big hammer! Besides...who cares if a little ink gets on your pants..I bet you'll have much worse on them after hiking for a few days AND nobody can steal your pants without you being able to identify them!

And you could change your trail name to Rorschach.

[SGT Rock]

I like the hammer idea. It lacks finesse, but that is part of the attraction.

[Alligator]

Let's all go out and get Skidsteer some test items . It's Christmas season, it ought to be an easy task.

[Frolicking Dinosaurs]

This is WB - you must use an axe or a sword.

[saimyoji]

Mauls are acceptable. The 10 lb-er should work well here.