Fix side to side blade play in a vintage Schrade 108OT

A

Amestron

Joined
Apr 3, 2015
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Hi, guys
That's it. I just got a Vintage 108OT From eBay which otherwise is fine, but for this noticeable blade play, side to side. Any help on how to fix it? Can I use the old rubber hammer or a vise? Thanks!
 
Can you see the pivot pin in the side of the bolster?
If not, it may be beyond fixing. Possibly a Swinton key construction, (I'm not sure of the name).

If you can see the pin, Then squeeze & peen should work.
 
Hello, thanks for your answer. The pin is not evident, I think it is under the bolster. I will give it a try with the mallet anyway.

Thanks again !
 
I put mine 8OT in a vise and gave it a gentle squeeze. If it didn't help, I went a little further. Once the blade play was gone (or almost gone), the pin was now visible and it can be lightly peened and sanded flush. I have done this with a few slip joints. All successful, some a little too tight so take it slow and be gentle with the hammer afterwards too. The hammer can make it tighter after the vise if you hit too hard.
 
Google "Swinden key construction" and look at the images to get an idea of what you're up against. Essentially, you need to cause the center pin to buckle enough to tighten things up.

When I've done this in Ulstet BSA knives (same construction) I've found I need squeeze them "I don't care if it breaks" hard.

Note, the bolster is likely only held on by epoxy so it's possible that the vice squeeze could pop a bolster off. Just reglue it.
 
Ok, now I see... Too much for a small mallet. I will burrow the vise from my in-law ang give it a nice hug.
Thanks again!! I will keep you updated 😅
 
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