Bluing barrels on a pre war Heym with ivory beads. I am afraid if I try to take them out before bluing/ boiling that I might break them, especially the center bead as it is so small. OK to leave them in? Thanks! Gil

I wouldn't. Leave then in

Gil you can leave them in ,I've done many sets with the ivory in and never an issue ,you obviously have to be careful if you card with a wheel...getting them out is a crap shoot

Leave them in has been my default decision. I always figured if I tried to take them out one or both would break and one or both would fall into the space between the ribs. While very light, I would always think I could hear them rattling around in there. So far I have not regretted leaving them. Others might do as they like and have equal good outcomes.

Gil,
Just card with acetone cleaned steel wool, about 00.
Mike

Many thanks to all who responded. I was hoping that would be the consensus. Gil