Do washers and screws make a folding knife weaker?

[effenoam]

It seems to me like the older pinned construction, washer-less knives are a lot sturdier. I handled an old KA-BAR slip joint today and was surprised to find it felt more solid then my Benchmade Contego, which is marketed as a heavy duty knife... Also do axis/arc locks feel kind cheap to anyone else(in comparison to a lockback)?

 

[Moxy]

Nope.

 

[ClemsonKnifeNut]

Nope.

And the forum record for most direct answer goes to Moxy

 

[goodeyesniper]

slip joints feel "sturdier" because they have solid metal frames with pretty solid scales like bone, hardwood, etc.... compared to modern lightweight materials like g10.

I think the only real drawback to screw construction is that people decide to repeatedly and needlessly deconstruct their knife to clean it. usually without enough mechanical ability to keep its lifespan healthy.

 

[marthinus]

If it folds, it is weaker then a fixed blade. No matter if it is pinned or screwed.

 

[Moxy]

Whether or not a knife "feels" solid is based on many factors. But properly designed fasteners are just as strong as any pinned construction design, but have the added advantage that the knife can be disassembled. Usually it comes down to handle materials. Steel lined G10/FRN will always feel more sturdy that unlined G10/FRN.