Frame Lock Problem?

C

ccf

Joined
Jul 23, 2010
Messages
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I have a Kershaw Amplitude that doesn't lock if I manually open the knife (as in opening it like a slip joint). It also will not lock back up once I depress the frame lock & immediately try to lock it again (without closing the blade). It locks fine when I flip it.

It's a SpeedSafe design if that makes a difference. This is the first frame lock I've ever had & I'm curious. Is this normal?
 
Try loosening the handle and pivot screws, and then tighten them back up. Sounds like possibly a misaligned liner. Should be a T6 and T8 torx for the handles and the pivot. And no I have never had this happen to any of my knives nor heard of it happening to anyone else. Try the above and then if that doesn't work call up Customer service and they will take care of you. Hope that helps.
 
Is the engagement of the lockbar on the tang very small? It could be that without the momentum of the speedsafe swinging it open, there's not enough room for the lock to slide over because it is so "early". A lot of people like "early" frame locks, but to me this tiny amount of engagement isn't enough. You could send it in to be replaced, or you could break it in by opening it a lot, allowing things to wear to the point that the lock engages better.
 
Opening a frame/liner lock gingerly will usually cause the lock to not fully engage. The lockup benefits from opening the knife with a little force. It doesn't need to be a wrist flick or anything, but a little oomph will make sure the lock is seated properly.
 
Thanks, guys. I appreciate the replies. I'll try the suggestions & will send it in if it's still a problem.
 
Silvanus said:
Opening a frame/liner lock gingerly will usually cause the lock to not fully engage. The lockup benefits from opening the knife with a little force. It doesn't need to be a wrist flick or anything, but a little oomph will make sure the lock is seated properly.
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Exactly, especially with a flipper. The knives are designed to be opened with some amount of force to allow the lock to properly engaged. You don't need to worry about breaking it, but then again opening it like you are pitching a fast ball or starting a lawnmower is going to result in disaster too. If you want a traditional pocket knife that you open two handed, Kershaw makes some cool ones too. Great time to be a knife lover.
 
It sounds like your lock may be a .001 or 2 too high. Were it I, I would open it for a while by flipping or manually. I think it may break in and be fine. At least I'd try that first before taking it apart and moving stuff around.

If you wrist flip develop a feel so that you only put enough force in to fully engage the lock. This will vary by knife. I believe that over time hard wrist flipping WILL be to the detriment of the knife.
 
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