Schrade LB7 Question....

[Dualhead77]

Hey gang, I have a used LB7 that I recently bought that cleaned up really nice. The lock works fine and the blade sharpened well. I have read however that the particular lock (To metal fins which act as the spring mechanism) I have on mine is prone to failure. I have read that there are mods that convert it to a more robust mechanism. My question is this: Is the knife dangerous to use if the lock works currently? I can imagine some pretty bad situations of the lock would fail.....just a question. I'm still a fixed blade guy for hunting, but I love the fit and feel of this knife.

 

[FatCity67]

Highly unlikely unless you are using the knife for something it was never designed to do.

If it bothers you that much you could always pickup a user 4 pin in the bay which would guarentee you a solid back spring. I suspect it would be cheaper than having an expert replace them for you.

 

[not2sharp]

Knives are just simple tools If you use them correctly, they will last a lifetime; but if abused they will break and quite possibly cause injury.

I usually try to avoid putting pressure on the spine of any folder. No matter how strong the locking mechanism is touted to be, the process can be defeated through grime, wear, a spring failure, incomplete activation or any number of things. The knife is only as safe as you are.

I would leave the LB7 as is. The work required to improve the locking mechanism would probably cost more than the purchase price of a better replacement.

n2s

 

[meako]

I think I know the one you mean -brass liner lock that operates sideways as opposed to a solid back lock.
i'm sure there are more correct terms for the two.
I have examples of both and I believe as long as you are aware of the problem when using that knife it will not be unsafe.
One of my smaller Schrades has a liner lock that is practically non existent-sure it flops into place but holding the blade open? no.
cheers.

 

[edbeau]

The same locking is used by many lock backs from many companies. As was stated, as long as you use the knife as a knife the lock will not fail you.

 

[FatCity67]

LB7's are not liner locks like the 125s etc. The OP was asking about the main spring that sometime I believe in the 90's Schrade changed. There are several threads on the topic.

Scroll down to the post by Orvet.

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/s...-some-questions?highlight=buck+110+LB5+spring

I think I know the one you mean -brass liner lock that operates sideways as opposed to a solid back lock.
i'm sure there are more correct terms for the two.
I have examples of both and I believe as long as you are aware of the problem when using that knife it will not be unsafe.
One of my smaller Schrades has a liner lock that is practically non existent-sure it flops into place but holding the blade open? no.
cheers.

 

[Dualhead77]

Thanks for all the replies. I always use my knives carefully (I.e. no prying or "batoning"). I will keep the knife as is and get my money's worth. Thanks again for all the replies!