GEC Lockback - Possible problem - Input needed

[Magus]

So I got my #72 mini lockback today and I like it, but I think something may be wrong with it.

Opens smooth, and locks like a vault. Problem though is unlocking it. Trying to depress the lock release on this thing is really stinkin' hard. At times it almost feels like it's frozen in place. I can get it closed, but it takes and absurd amount of effort. It almost feels to like the joint of the blade is hung on something as I'm trying to get it forward. This can't be right.

My right thumb is killing me at this point. Is this normal for a GEC lockback or should I consider sending it in for repair?

I've got lots of lockback knives from other makers, but I've never run into a lock release this difficult to operate.

 

[wagglebee]

Send it back to the dealer, it's not normal and GEC should either repair or replace it.

 

[ea42]

The lock lever is likely binding up on the tang. You could seat it more evenly by opening the knife and resting it on a bench with the blade edge facing down. Give the back just over the bolsters a light whack with a small mallet or something similar. You're not looking to cream it. Once will likley be enough, if that doesn't work I'd send it back, no need to have it drive you nuts.

Eric

 

[scarysharp]

The lock lever is likely binding up on the tang. You could seat it more evenly by opening the knife and resting it on a bench with the blade edge facing down. Give the back just over the bolsters a light whack with a small mallet or something similar. You're not looking to cream it. Once will likley be enough, if that doesn't work I'd send it back, no need to have it drive you nuts.

Eric

I kinda agree with eric here.

Not that it makes a difference, but what type of handle material is it? What type of blade profile?
I also own a #72 lockback, in burnt stag with a wharncliffe blade and love it!! It was smooth as silk from day one.It is my favorite EDC...

 

[Magus]

I kinda agree with eric here.

Not that it makes a difference, but what type of handle material is it? What type of blade profile?
I also own a #72 lockback, in burnt stag with a wharncliffe blade and love it!! It was smooth as silk from day one.It is my favorite EDC...

Spear blade, bone handles. Here's a pic.

Eric's method may have some merit here. I've got a good rubber mallet and I may give it a try, makes sense to me. Something is binding and this seems fixable to me, otherwise is just wouldn't close at all. Waiting to hear back from the seller first and see what he says about it.

 

[Magus]

Well, being the impatient individual I am, I went ahead and gave the mallet a try.

Thanks Eric. There's very marked improvement. Still some binding, but no where near as bad now. I can actually get it closed much easier than before.

I think I may work with it a bit more and see what happens now. Wear it in a bit from here and maybe it will loosen up and stop binding totally. Again, though big improvement from a couple mallet taps. Thanks Eric.

 

[ea42]

No problem at all, I'm glad it's improved! It should definitely get better with use once those parts start getting smoothed down some, just keep the blade oiled well. The only other fix would have been to dismantle the knife and file the locklever down a hair, not an easy undertaking.
Nice looking knife!

Eric