The rainbow anodized locking metal pin-backs have arrived and I've done some very scientific testing! First and foremost - they actually really do not hold any more weight than the small rubber backs - so if weight is your concern either option will hold the 36 grams per back. For your own collection comparison, this leveled out to a 2" solid iron pin with one magnet back and 7 extra grams of weight.
These are available in packs of 10 on your pledge manager add-on section. They are $12.50 a bag and will go up to $15 through my website.
Science test of one magnet back
It is VERY close on both back types to be able to hold 40+ grams on a single back, they do not fall dramatically until closer to 50 grams, but rather slowly slide to the floor.
Unsuccessful test of one magnet back.
The Pros and cons of these metal backs vs the rubber backs from my view:
PROS:
These look SO COOL. The anodized metal is beautiful and they just look sleek.
They are SUPER secure. If you're using your pin in the real world when it isn't a magnet these are the backs for you. It can also double as an attachment that won't put holes through clothes and your pins will remain securely attached.
The hole will not wear out and become loose over time.
Minimal flaw rate as far as magnets disconnecting from the back.
CONS:
The base is over 11 mm wide and reflective, it will not blend in and will likely show behind any of your smaller pins.
If you are not careful in removing, just like any locking back, you can damage your pin posts.
It may be difficult to use if your posts are damage, thicker than normal or otherwise odd. Metal is not forgiving.
NEUTRAL:
Same weight bearing capability
They are chunky, the magnet back itself weighs over 3 grams, the rubber backs are a decent amount less than 1 gram (varies depending on color).
Here are some comparison shots, check the captions for more information.
1.5" pin - Minimal differences from the front, you can see the metal back on the bottom right pin, but it isn't distracting.
Profile comparison, about the same length with the top and bottom flairs being wider.
Magnet comparison, an 11 mm base vs 8 mm base.
Rubber magnet backs from the side, still there but not eye catching like the metal
Metal backs from the side - more noticeable but not ugly!
