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- Sep 27, 2008
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It was raining and I was bored, so I decided to put this together. I hate it when the paint on my Spyderco clips gets scratched and nasty looking. So here is a simple aesthetically pleasing solution.
This is an *easy* clip polishing method anyone can do for less than $5.00. All you need is your typical Spyderco knife, a T-6 torx screwdriver, 320grit sandpaper, and 1500grit sandpaper. In this case, I will do my Endura 4 ZDP-189, I have also seen this done on the Military and ParaMilitary line.
Endura 4 ZDP-189 and T-6 torx screwdriver
Start by removing the clip screws with the T-6 screwdriver
Once the clip is removed, begin sanding with the 320grit sandpaper until the majority of the paint is removed. It's up to you, but I left paint on the backside so that rust won't accumulate there, plus you won't see that side anyways because it is flush with the FRN when assembled.
Next, finish with the 1500grit sandpaper, this is where you'll need to use some elbow grease hehe. Continue sanding until the desired finish is achieved. I actually don't like my clips too shiny, but again it's up to you. You could also finish this with some metal polishing compound if you want it really shiny, but I was just going with what I had on hand.
Re-attach the clip to the knife and you are finished. The whole process can be done in less than an hour easy. It would be a good idea to keep your newly polished clip lubricated so that it doesn't rust. I recommend regular cleaning with a teflon cloth like Tuff Cloth or you can keep it lubed with Rem Oil.
Before and After
Thanks for looking, all comments and suggestions are welcome, and please feel free to post pics of your polished clips!
This is an *easy* clip polishing method anyone can do for less than $5.00. All you need is your typical Spyderco knife, a T-6 torx screwdriver, 320grit sandpaper, and 1500grit sandpaper. In this case, I will do my Endura 4 ZDP-189, I have also seen this done on the Military and ParaMilitary line.
Endura 4 ZDP-189 and T-6 torx screwdriver
Start by removing the clip screws with the T-6 screwdriver
Once the clip is removed, begin sanding with the 320grit sandpaper until the majority of the paint is removed. It's up to you, but I left paint on the backside so that rust won't accumulate there, plus you won't see that side anyways because it is flush with the FRN when assembled.
Next, finish with the 1500grit sandpaper, this is where you'll need to use some elbow grease hehe. Continue sanding until the desired finish is achieved. I actually don't like my clips too shiny, but again it's up to you. You could also finish this with some metal polishing compound if you want it really shiny, but I was just going with what I had on hand.
Re-attach the clip to the knife and you are finished. The whole process can be done in less than an hour easy. It would be a good idea to keep your newly polished clip lubricated so that it doesn't rust. I recommend regular cleaning with a teflon cloth like Tuff Cloth or you can keep it lubed with Rem Oil.
Before and After
Thanks for looking, all comments and suggestions are welcome, and please feel free to post pics of your polished clips!
:thumbup:
lus it's a cool contrast with the black left recessed in the logo/print.