How to Repair a Folding Knife

A trusty pocketknife has always been a useful tool to carry around. Whenever any task that requires cutting arises, you're well prepared with a folding pocketknife at your side. With all folding knives come the possibility of functional problems. Over time, the knife can become worn and may not operate at an optimal level. Typical problems that require basic repairs are bent or jammed parts, as well as a stuck or loose blade. These problems can be fixed at home without sending the knife off to repair.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdrivers
  • Small torque wrenches
  • Punch and hammer
  • Pliers
  • Penetrating oil
  • Rust remover or cleaning solvent
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Instructions

    • 1

      Open the knife completely. If you have a locking blade, lock the blade back. If your knife has more than one blade, open only the blade that needs repair.

    • 2

      Examine your knife to see how it's put together. Look for torque or hex screws and pins that secure the knife. As all knives vary in design, the placement of screws and pins will vary.

    • 3

      Clean the knife thoroughly with a cleaning solvent or rust remover. Ensure that you remove any wadded lint that may be stuck inside or any corrosion that is present. Lubricate the hinge that the blade operates from with a drop or two of penetrating oil. This typically helps with a stuck blade.

    • 4

      Disassemble the knife and look for any obviously worn or bent parts such as marred metal or over-compressed springs, if so equipped. Replace any parts that look worn. Bend any bent parts back into shape, if possible, or replace them. If available, consult your knife's manufacturer for replacement parts or a manual for disassembly instructions.

    • 5

      Put the knife back together. Tighten all screws or pins. Open and close the knife and make sure it works properly. If the knife is still loose, tighten the hinge screws by a quarter turn at a time until the knife is no longer loose. If the knife is still too tight, loosen the hinge screws until the blade opens and closes with appropriate action.