112 Spa Advice

TAH

TAH

Joined
Jul 3, 2001
Messages
6,135
When closed, the blade on my 1973 Ranger can easily be moved from side to side and touch the brass liners. If I press down the lock, the blade swings freely. This week, I spoke with Randy about these issues and he suggested replacing the pivot pin, which leads me to my question. For 42 years this knife has locked tight when open. If Buck replaces the pivot pin, what is the risk of the knife developing blade play in the future? In other words, does replacing the pivot pin jeopardize the integrity of the original lock up? Also, when opened or closed, the lock sticks up higher than the rear bolsters. Why is that and should/can it be addressed?



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I think a new pivot pin would help your 112. As for the lock bar resting high in the frame. I'd leave that as is. I've seen many do that. DM
 
Looks like a brass pivot pin and after all these years it may be warn. I go also for a replacement if the side to side play bothers you. You didn't mention if it has blade play when open. The locking bar height is a result of where it sits on the blade in the open or closed position. To back up what Dave said, I have seen the same issue in a few lockbacks and not only Bucks.
 
Thanks David and edbeau. There is no blade play when open.

I asked this question today, because I sent the knife to Buck on Tuesday and wanted to get some expert opinion here before I discussed it again with Randy tomorrow. However, to my surprise, Randy called this evening saying that my knife arrived today, he personally worked on it, and it turned out great! He said the pivot pin definitely needed to be replaced and the new pin will not affect the lock up going forward. He said the locking bar height was normal for this vintage and should not be altered. At my request, he also did a light refinish of the blade.

As for Buck Knives, Inc., this is an incredible company. I can only imagine the number of knives that go through warranty and repair. I was blown away that Randy received my knife today, repaired it, took the time to call me with an update, and is shipping it back tomorrow. This will end up being a 6 day turn-a-round. That is unreal for a company of this size. The way I was treated, I feel like I was the only person that mattered at Buck Knives today.

Thank you Randy and thank you CJ for continuing your family's values and the ridiculously great customer service. :thumbup:
 
That is a great story TAH! Thanks for the followup on it!

I have 6 Bucks at the Spa and can't wait to get them back!
 
I'm glad I sent it in. The closed, loose blade really bothered me. Should be good to go for another 42 years! :thumbup:
 
I just sent my brand new CKS 501 in for a similar issue. I really want to love this knife, which I intend to carry for a long time, and the loose blade just made that impossible. Plus it was kind of dangerous since the tip of the knife could become exposed in the pocket. Can't wait to get it back.
 
Yep, I followed your thread. You did the right thing sending it back. I have sent in other knives and am always exceptionally pleased with Buck's repair work. When refinishing blades and handles, they never go over board and do too much. They are good at following customers' instructions and are conscientious about preserving the original details and dimensions of the knife as much as possible.
 
My Ranger returned home from Idaho last week. He came back refreshed and ready to work. Poor guy hasn't had a vacation in 42 years. In the knife world, I suppose a new pivot pin is like getting a knee replacement. I highly recommend Randy as a surgeon. He did a great job. Blade locks up tighter than ever with no closed position wobble. Best $6.95 I've spent this year. :thumbup:

Here he is with his big brother...


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