Byrd Tern way too stiff. Any way to reduce tension...?

O

Olen

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Jul 21, 2015
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Ive bought a new Byrd Tern, but unfortunately it is very difficult to open one handed due to its "stiffness". It is almost only possible using two hands which I regret.

Is there any way of reducing the amount of force needed to flip it open one handed?

Im not sure loosening the screws holding the blade will do anything but introduce play. Not desired...

Thank you.
 
I had this problem with my little pocket knife (except mine's too hard to open even with two hands) and I decided to try filing down the corner of the blade that's inside the handle. Here's where you'd file on your knife if you want to try my idea:

jr3bls.jpg


But I know nothing about knives. This is just a theory. I'd have to buy a file slightly thinner than 1/16" to do it. You'd have an easier time.
 
^
Don't do this.

Loosen the pivot screw incrementally while checking for blade play. When the blade can be wiggled back and forth a bit, tighten the screw just until the play is gone and the blade is centered when closed.
It will get even smoother as you break it in, though lock backs usually don't flick open as easily as most other folders.


*just noticed this is an old thread, hope you worked it out by now OP.
 
spketch said:
Loosen the pivot screw incrementally while checking for blade play. When the blade can be wiggled back and forth a bit, tighten the screw just until the play is gone and the blade is centered when closed.
It will get even smoother as you break it in, though lock backs usually don't flick open as easily as most other folders.
Click to expand...

The Tern is a slipjoint, so loosening the pivot won't help OP. (My Tern has a super-strong backspring as well; it sits in a drawer where it will stay until I get around to completely disassembling it with my Dremel on hand.)
 
My mistake, I thought the Byrd line was all lock backs. I don't have much experience with slip joints.
 
Leave it half way open with the spring flexed for a couple of days? I do that with my Cold Steels , and it helps reduce the stiffness some.
 
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