Adjusting The Axis Pivot--Question

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Evany

Joined
May 7, 2007
Messages
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I just got a lightly used 940-1 on the exchange and the first thing I did when it arrived was to adjust the pivot. The blade dropped closed a little too easily before the adjustment and there was very slight side to side blade play with the knife open. Centering was perfect. I like my Axis knives to open smoothly, with no blade play, and just barely loose enough so you can flick it almost closed with the lock pulled back. I removed the pivot screw, put some Locktite on it and adjusted it just a bit tighter than it was. Blade is still centered, there's no play now and the action feels a bit tight. My question for you experienced Axis folks is should I keep it slightly tight like this so it can wear in over time, or is it better to adjust it exactly how you want it? It seems like my favorite Axis knives all were just slightly tight from the factory and they got perfect over a few weeks of use, so that whats how I set it up. Mistake or just right?
 
I think you probably have it right. Mine usually loosen up just a bit over a couple of days. I'd see how it feels after a few.

Of course, if it doesn't, you can always readjust. ;)
 
I guess it depends on how much it was flicked prior to your purchase. If is was already broken in good it may not loosen up much. If it wasn't flicked that much then it should loosen up as the washers break in. Maybe just contact whoever you bought it from and see if you can get an idea of how much it was opened and closed.
 
The proper sequence is to tighten the pivot, then with the blade open wiggle it side to side forcefully and check function if it loosens excessively tighten slightly and repeat. If it is still too tight after forcefully wiggling side to side it is probably too tight. You will need need to start over and use this method to get it to seat properly. Other wise you will be adjusting for a few days
 
My 940 (had) a really small sweet spot. With just a little drop of Loc-Tite BLUE formula on the pivot threads, once found the blade stayed put. I no longer own a 940 but it's similar throughout the pivot adjustment range.

If using a thread locker with the blue formula, there's time to find that sweet spot with the pivot, and this formula is breakable.
 
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My Griptilian w/ AWT scales isbadjusted exactly as you say. It's on the snug side, but still buttery smooth. It doesn't free drop, which I like. I'm not a fan of the free dropping blades; that usually means there's some play. My Grip locks up rock solid, zero blade play and is smooth as silk.

I tightened the pivot with a dab of blue loctite on it and let it sit for a day or so. I've been using it ever since and it hasn't moved a hair from how I adjusted it.

Hope this helps.
 
Yes to JKarp's point about blue loctite, most of my BM pivots will work themselves loose. Clean the pivot bolt (both sides) with lighter fluid or similar. Run a Q-tip or something like that into the female side with lighter fluid on it to really clean it out. Blue loctite is very easy to break when you need to.
 
That sweet spot seems to occur before the pivot screw is fully tight, at least on my 940-1.
 
I find if I use plumber's teflon tape on the pivot it works better. It stays put and won't move, not to mention, I can readjust the pivot at anytime and don't have to worry about waiting 24 hours before I can play with it.
 
When ever you are adjusting your pivot give each side of the blade a couple solid taps on a table. This will help everything seat properly instead of waiting for break in. You will be surprised how much they will loosen up at times after you give them a few taps. This will also ensure you have the proper adjustment instead of the blade getting side to side later once it seats properly.
 
Benchmade said:
When ever you are adjusting your pivot give each side of the blade a couple solid taps on a table. This will help everything seat properly instead of waiting for break in. You will be surprised how much they will loosen up at times after you give them a few taps. This will also ensure you have the proper adjustment instead of the blade getting side to side later once it seats properly.
Click to expand...

That's a new one to me! I may just have to give that a shot next time I'm screwing with my pivots.
 
Not sure if this is unique to Axis folders (most likely not) but I found with all my Benchmade knives I'd have to adjust the pivot patiently to get to the sweet spot - smooth enough to the point of (nearly) free dropping yet no side-to-side blade play. Also, polishing the washers may help but you've got be VERy careful not to polish away too much stuff.
 
We have been slowly moving a lot of our newer pivots to extra fine threads which are easier to make fine adjustments. Like 56 tpi instead of 32 or 40 tpi.
 
Benchmade said:
We have been slowly moving a lot of our newer pivots to extra fine threads which are easier to make fine adjustments. Like 56 tpi instead of 32 or 40 tpi.
Click to expand...

Jimmy, I am impressed with your responsiveness on this site. Benchmade is a great knife company, no bones about it, and its been frustrating to see so many knives have issues. It really seems like things are starting to get addressed, and I'm thrilled to see it!
 
Thanks blade man. Benchmade is a great knife company for sure. We really want our customers to be happy with our knives.
 
Well Jimmy, I guess you play a "pivotal" role in moderating us here. :cool: Thanks for the good work and will look for the newer pivot bolts. It's the little adjustments.
 
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