Pinning stage

A pinning stage is a metal or wooden block that is used to set specimens and labels at a consistent height on the mounting pin. The pinning stage has a series of holes of different depths drilled in it.

The specimen or label is attached to the pin and the pin is then pushed into the pinning stage. The stage pushes the label (or specimen) up the pin until the pin reaches the bottom of the hole in the stage. This means that, by using the same hole each time, the specimens or labels will always be at the same height on the pin.

A pinning stage should not be confused with a setting board which is used to position the wings of an insect so that it 'sets' in that position.

A photograph of a metal pining stage.
Photograph from the Watford Coleoptera Group.

Related terms

• Setting board

Related groups of terms

• Equipment

Related pages on this web site

• Preparing/Maintaining a Collection of Butterflies & Moths

See other words beginning with P