When you buy a new knife, you might notice that the pivot doesn’t open and close as smoothly as it should. That’s natural, and it’s usually a sign that it needs some break-in time.
The break-in period varies from knife to knife, but most often, it takes a few weeks for the parts to get used to each other.
1. Clean the blade
One of the best ways to make a knife open smoother is to clean it. Dirt and sand can make a knife hard to open and can even damage the blade.
Pat O’Donnell, sales manager at ZT Knives, says that a good cleaning is the first step to making your knife open smoothly again. Ideally, you should wipe it down with a dry or slightly moist lint-free cloth, paper towel, or rag after every use.
Another great way to keep a knife open smoothly is to oil it regularly. Apply penetrating oil to the moving parts of your knife, including the hinge.
Then, use a toothpick to clear any gunk and grime from the pivot screw or the locking mechanism. It may also help to remove any packaging materials that have gotten stuck in the hinge. This will ensure that the hinge works properly again and makes the knife open smoothly.
2. Oil the hinge
One of the best ways to make your new folding knife open smoother is to oil the hinge. The lubricant will help to reduce friction between the hinge and door, which will result in a more stable opening system.
Another benefit of lubricating the hinge is that it will also help to prevent any rust from developing. Rusty hinges can be very difficult to remove, and if you don’t want to risk damaging your knife, then lubricating it is the best way to go.
To oil the hinge, simply take some lubricant and apply it to each side of the pivot point. Once you’ve done this, then take the knife back and forth a few times to work the lubricant into each joint.
3. Loosen the hex screw
A hex screw is one of the most common types of screws in use today. They’re designed to distribute force across all sides for high-strength fastening and reliable security.
Hex screws come in a variety of materials, ranging from mild steel to stainless steel and hardened steel. They’re used for everything from landscaping and wood to heavy sheet metal projects.
They’re also available in different head styles, including slotted hex screws and hex and Phillips combinations. Hex screws are a common choice for residential and commercial applications because they’re easy to install with a screwdriver.
However, hex screws can be difficult to remove when they’re stuck in place. If you’re a novice at using wrenches and screwdrivers, the process can get a little tricky.
4. Try a different grip
The correct grip is a must have for any golfer looking to improve his scorecard. A proper grip will not only make your club feel more comfortable and less likely to fall out of your hands, it will also help you achieve a higher level of accuracy with your shots. There are a few different types of grips on the market, including specialized e-Grips that allow you to adjust the size and shape of your dyno, as well as rubber and corded versions that are more affordable than their leather cousins. The right grip is the key to unlocking your game and putting you in the best possible position to score big.
The best way to find out is to try out a few grips on the course with your friends, family or instructors and see which one suits you the most. After trying on several aforementioned options, you may be surprised at the difference in your scorecard.