Disappointed in a ZT

[Razor]

I just got my new ZT 301 today and the knife seemed perfect. I went to changed the clip to tip up carry, and the screw heads stripped. I had the right size wrench because I had used it before to change other ZT clips. The screws seem to soft to me. Anyone else had this problem?

 

[Artfully Martial]

you used a wrench to unscrew the clip?

 

[Thalestin]

Cant really be dissapointed with the knife. Generally with screw stripping its the user that screwed up (excuse the pun). Just have to be very careful

 

[Bill1170]

3 questions I have for the OP.

1. What size and style of "wrench" did you use?

2. Did the screws display any signs of thread locking compound?

3. What was the last knife you used this "wrench" to undo clip screws from?

 

[PG5768]

I just got my new ZT 301 today and the knife seemed perfect. I went to changed the clip to tip up carry, and the screw heads stripped. I had the right size wrench because I had used it before to change other ZT clips. The screws seem to soft to me. Anyone else had this problem?

I've had a similar problem with other knives. Usually the Loctite is a little too strong and I'm not holding my Torx (T6 for pocket clip screws on the 0301) down hard enough and it slips, stripping the screw head. Kershaw will send you new screws at no charge. Just go to their "Contact Us" page and select "Warranty Service" and let them know what you need.

 

[RevDevil]

Or if they are too far gone, send the knife in. They will take care of you, everytime.

 

[Tostig]

I just got my new ZT 301 today and the knife seemed perfect. I went to changed the clip to tip up carry, and the screw heads stripped. I had the right size wrench because I had used it before to change other ZT clips. The screws seem to soft to me. Anyone else had this problem?

I've had the same thing happen with other knives. My EKI CQC7 clip screws were nearly as bad the first and only time I moved the clip , same thing with my new Lahar.

I do not think it is user error , I think they may have overdid it at the factory in the first place.
The great thing about your ZT is that you can easily get new ones , just email their customer service and ask for a new set , they will hook you up no problem.

Tostig

edit - Revdevil , he doesnt need to send the knife in , just order new screws and put them on when he gets them.

 

[TuneEmUp]

It happens. I dont think it is the manufacturer all the time, but it sure stings when it happens!

 

[Apec]

At least if you use the warranty service form on Kershaw's site, they'll send you a new clip and pair of screws - at no extra charge.

Unlike other companies, like Oakley. When the screws on my Juliet stripped, they refused to send anything, even if I offered to pay for it.

 

[houtex]

I learned my leason the hard way about taking things apart


Next time try warming up some water in the microwave and place the item (knife, flashlight) in the warmed water for a bit. Helps me.

 

[Bill1170]

If thread locker is the problem, a hot soldering iron can be touched to the screws first to weaken the compound before unscrewing the screws.

 

[Razor]

I used a Torx T6 on them. How do you get them out, if ZT sends you new ones?

 

[PG5768]

I learned my lesson the hard way about taking things apart


Next time try warming up some water in the microwave and place the item (knife, flashlight) in the warmed water for a bit. Helps me.

That's my preferred method, too. :thumbup: Tried my soldering iron, but didn't have any success. The hot water soak has worked every time.

 

[Apec]

I used a Torx T6 on them. How do you get them out, if ZT sends you new ones?

There's a variety of ways. You can take a junk bit and put superglue on the end, let it bond to the stripped screw, and proceed. There are special drill bits designed for removing stripped screws. Me, from personal experience, I managed to brute force it with a T7.

 

[PG5768]

I used a Torx T6 on them. How do you get them out, if ZT sends you new ones?

Usually I've been able to get at least one out using my Torx wrench. Then I'd gently spin the clip while using the Torx on the stripped one. Needle nose pliers might work if you can get a grip on either of the screws. Just make sure to heat up the knife/screws to loosen the Loctite.

If none of this works, give ZT Customer Service a call and see what they suggest.

 

[Tsujigiri]

It happens every once in a while. I've had stripped screws from Spyderco and Benchmade, too.

 

[trix2004]

I striped head on my XM-18 , if every time I striped the screw I would be disappointed in company making it I would have zero knifes by now .

 

[rororo64]

I think that a member here by the name of STR sells titanium screws in different sizes.

 

[jimmer_5]

I just got my new ZT 301 today and the knife seemed perfect. I went to changed the clip to tip up carry, and the screw heads stripped. I had the right size wrench because I had used it before to change other ZT clips. The screws seem to soft to me. Anyone else had this problem?

Razor -

Send me a PM with your address and I will happily mail you some screws on Monday. You won't have to send the knife in at all.

I can't speak for the exact screws you have, but the clip screws are pretty consistent, so more than likely the problem is your torx wrench. A lot of the cheaper torx wrenches with interchangeable bits are a bit undersized. The T6 is more like a T5, and they strip the screw heads. I would highly recommend you invest in a few good torx wrenches - the Wiha brand wrenches are very good.

I understand that it can be frustrating having a part break on a brand new knife, but I hope you are happy with the knife except for the screws.

I hope this helps,

- Jim

 

[Razor]

I want to thank everyone for the help! I heated them up and used a T7 torx to get them out. You all are sure a great bunch of guys?