Knockout Issue/Non-Issue?

Joined
Mar 3, 2012
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476
A few days ago I received my Kershaw Knockout 1870. Upon using it, I felt the sub-frame lock slightly sticking on the bottom of blade when trying to disengage. I the time, I simply thought this was the nature of the knifes lock up because it is ROCK solid.

However, my brother ordered a Knockout as well brought it by today. At first glance they were exactly the same... Until you disengaged the lock. His is buttery smooth. Mine still snags. Even though it is harder to unlock mine, it still operates wonderfully.

I do have a concern though... If my sub-frame lock is grinding on the bottom of the blade to the point it snags, can that cause damage to the knife? Is this something to worry about? Should I have called Kershaw as opposed to posting on the forum? Or should I simply go back to loving my new blade?

Thanks.
 
It's normal. Sometimes there are slight variances in production knives. In a week or two it will be the same as your brothers. If you want to speed up the process get a lead pencil and mark the bottom of the blade where it contacts the lock.

I received my Knockout today and it just slightly sticks. I'm not worried at all.
 
Thanks! That worked instantaneously. Does the lead act as a sort of dry lubricant?
 
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not sure just picked some up in the lock section at walmart. I used it on my handcuffs when I first got them.
 
Ok, the lead was a temporary fix that no longer works. The blade is becoming progressively stickier on the sub-frame. My lockup has now changed from 50% engagement to 90% engagement. To make matters worse, my aluminum handles have developed a bit of flex. You can hear the knife audibly "creek" as you grasp it. I think it's time to finally test out KAI's warranty dept (adjusting the pivot does not help).

I just hate to lose the knife for 4 to 6 weeks after I waited a year :( I really do love this blade. Oh well.
 
Knife sent to KAI. Does anybody know what to expect next? Will they call? Will they send me an email to confirm they received my knife?

Lastly, realistically how long will it take before the greatness is back in my hands?
 
The last knife that I sent to them came back in 10 days. However, your mileage may vary.

They did not contact me regarding the repair and I did not expect them to call me or contact me. They simply fixed it and returned.
 
Thanks Dan. Now I won't stress about hearing from them. I'll just have to actually start checking my mailbox daily. Crazy thought...
 
It'll actually probably come back by big brown truck. :) At least that's how two packages I've gotten from them have come.
 
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