Yes it can be ELU disassembled. It does not affect the warranty. Inability to reassemble the knife or damage done while attempting to do so are NOT covered under warranty. Reassembly can be a little tricky, and it is easy to damage the backspacer if you do it wrong. There is a picture-heavy thread on the Spyderco factory forum about it. If I have time later today, I'll see if I can link to it for you.