Some of you have mentioned taking apart your folding knives to clean lint and such out of the works. I've never done it and don't know what types of springs and such might be inside or under load...

Is there a website with instructions for various types or a favorite youtube channel with some videos of this - or is it so simple I should just take it apart without worrying ??

Thanks,

Every model will be different so I'd suggest searching youtube.
I just blow mine out with compressed air and work a drop or so of oil into the moving parts.

If you're even halfway mechanically-inclined, most basic folding knives shouldn't present any trouble. It's usually a matter of a few screws and a couple washers. If you get confused, you can usually find disassembly/reassembly guides on YouTube by just searching that brand and model of knife.

Knives with spring mechanisms, like assisted-opening or auto knives, can be trickier. But even then, there are still usually YouTube tutorials for the more popular brands/models.

What are you taking apart?

quote:

Originally posted by RogueJSK:
If you're even halfway mechanically-inclined, most basic folding knives shouldn't present any trouble. It's usually a matter of a few screws and a couple washers. If you get confused, you can usually find disassembly/reassembly guides on YouTube by just searching that brand and model of knife.

Knives with spring mechanisms, like assisted-opening or auto knives, can be trickier. But even then, there are still usually YouTube tutorials for the more popular brands/models.

+1
My dragonfly took itself 3/4 apart. You'd think the screw would have been in my pocket,but no. Spyderco got me the correct screw in 2 days at Christmas and a little reasoning got it back together. With locktite this time.

As crazy as it sounds, my buddy will open his Benchmade knives and wash them in a dishwasher about once a year. He then rinses then in fresh water, blows dry them with compressed air, followed by a dip in (I think) CLP. Once compete, wipes off the excess and hones the blades (or sharpens as required).

This is also the same gut who'll bury his Glock in dirt at the range, pull it free, open the slide, blow out the barrel, then start shooting. Why? Cause he saw it done once. (I move away from him when he does this)

OP: check Nick Shabazz' YouTube channel. Nick has reviewed many, many folders and always does a separate video detailing disassembly/reassembly of each. Simply go to his channel and search for the particular knife/knives you may have questions about. That's exactly how I learned to do it myself. BTW, he also has a video about the tools he uses to disassemble/reassemble.

Edit: Don't be put off by his "shtick" accent....he really knows his stuff.

Just watched Shabazz take apart the ZT0460 that I have. Looks easy enough - I think I'll do it tonight when I get home.

Did the ZT0460 without too much effort.
Did my Leek and a spring popped out, but got it all back together.

Looked at videos and comments on my SOG Twitch II and they all said DO NOT take this knife apart - so I didn't.

The ZT wasn't too dirty. The leek was oldest, and was very crusty inside.

There was a story of one factory trying to adjust a customers automatic. The knife worker almost had a spring take him out. Evidently with some knives you have to be very careful or you will get hurt. Just a random heads up.