How do I fix a sticky framelock?

[OilMan]

Is there a way to fix a sticky framelock? I've got one that sticks so bad it about breaks my fingernails to disengage it. Most of the time I use the non sticky end of a wooden Popsicle stick to save my fingers and not scratch the knife but I'd rather not have to resort to that when I'm not at home.
I thought I heard that if you put some graphite on the lock face it would help. Is that pencil lead? Does it actually work?

TIA,

oil

 

[gud4u]

Graphite from a pencil helps a little - but only a little. Usually a temporary step until the opposing faces of the locking arm and blade-butt wear to form smooth mating surfaces.

What folder are we talking about?

Have you disassembled the folder?

 

[DGG]

I use Breakfree CLP. You can get it at any gun store and many sporting good stores, doesn't cost too much. Soak the knife with it (over paper towels) and let the goop run out. Then hit it again until it is clean. It will loosen and dissolve the crud.

A couple of other things that may work is to run it through a dishwasher cycle (don't laugh it cleans the Dragon Lady's kitchen knives which get really yucky) or soak it in a little container of paint thinner (or gasoline if you are brave enough).

http://www.botac.com/breakfreeclp16.html

If it is rusted up you might have to lube and work the mechanism to loosen it up.

 

[OilMan]

Thanks for the reply guys. It's a brand new knife so there is no dirt or grime interfering with the lockup. Also it's a Damascus blade in case that matters at all. I'll try the pencil lead when I get home and see if that fixes anything as I'm thinking I will only need it til the lock settles to where it's comfy. Hopefully anyway as I really like the knife.

thanks,

oil

ps. I've never taken this one apart.

 

[biogon]

I'm sure you don't want to hear this, but a VERY sticky framelock (or a slipping framelock) can be indicative of a poorly cut lock geometry.

Something to do with where the relief cut is, the opposing angles on the tang/lock mate surface, and the vertical angle of the lock grind (too little lock contact area.)

It might be worth contacting the maker (custom) or the factory customer service (production). I had a sticking lock rebuffed and honed by a maker once to fix this problem.

Just my $0.02 though.

-j