How to harden pivot screws?

T

Twinbalis

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Feb 5, 2008
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Hello, I wanted to ask the experts how you would properly harden pivot screws?
There is a reasonably price balisong that is said to be a great knife but the weak point is the pivots...they are known to strip out very easily. I was considering it may be possible to harden the pivots to make them less susceptible to stripping..etc.

So, what do you guys think?
What would be the easiest way to harden these screws?
 
They should already be hardened. Not the screws but the barrell that goes over the screws. When you buy pivots to make folders, they are always hardened. At least they should be.
 
What alloy are the screws and pivots made from?

If it is 400 series stainless they can be heat treated. If the steel is 300 series or 18-8 you are hosed.

Maybe you can replace the hardware with something better.
 
Well, we are talking about a balisong knife. I have been considering picking up this knife as everything about it is supposed to be good for the price but people say the weak point is the pivots. They strip out after some work and tightening.
Maybe it would be easier to find replacments instead...
 
Twinbalis said:
Well, we are talking about a balisong knife. I have been considering picking up this knife as everything about it is supposed to be good for the price but people say the weak point is the pivots. They strip out after some work and tightening.
Maybe it would be easier to find replacments instead...
Click to expand...

If you aren't sure of the alloy, you'll have to start from scratch. Most pivots you buy from suppliers is 410, which is usually hardened when you get them.
 
Do the pivots strip or the threads that they screw into? The pivots should be replaceable with higher grade pieces. For that mater it would be easy to machine some from a superior steel.. If they screw into the handles I would be inclined to believe those would strip before the pivots.
 
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