Sebenza Problem

[uurys]

Let me see if I have this right. The tightness of the pivot screw should not affect the smoothness of the blade action.
The reason I ask is I recently received a Large Regular Sebenza (from the factory) that seemed pretty stiff upon opening and closing. So I did a little test.
I loosened the pivot screw and the action of the blade became easier (smoother). I then tightened it back and the action became harder (stiffer).

My understanding is that the tension of the scales is only applied to the pivot bearing and the blade pivots around that point. There shouldn’t actually be any tension placed on the blade, correct?
Or have I got it all wrong.

On my Small Regular Sebenza I can tighten the pivot screw very firmly (without stripping the screw) and it doesn’t effect the blade movement at all. I have taken this knife apart and reassembled it many and its fine.

With the Large I have dis and re-assemled it several times to try and get it running right and it just isnt working.

Thoughts?

 

[kdizzog6]

From my expreience the pivot screw effects the blade action for the first couple months or so of use. All my sebenza became smoother with time, and I can tighten the pivot screw as tight as possible and it will not change the smoothness now??? This has been the case for all 4 of mine? I don't know why though.

 

[DaveH]

You are correct that is how it _should_ be.

However as has been commonly noted, new sebenzas are sometimes rather stiff to open. You didn't comment on lube, but factory lube is a little stiff and often dirty, did you try cleaning and relube?

Another thing to try is checking to see if they pocket clip is putting excessive pressure on the lock bar. Try moving the clip out of the lay and see if that plays a role.

FIinally if all else fail send it back.

 

[flava]

I think what happens is this: the thickness of the blade plus brand new washers is a micron or so bigger than the thickness of the bushing. There might be some dirt too between washer and blade, but I suppose you checked that.
Tighten the pivot until you're happy with the smoothness, then stop. To check if it's too tight, depress the lock so the detent ball doesn’t' touch the blade anymore and see if the blade moves without resistance.
When the washers wear in, you will notice you can tighten more and still have a smooth opening.

 

[truthseeker]

I bought myself another large regular not too long ago and had the same problem. After carrying and using for a little while, it went away completely. I think it's just a "break-in" thing with the washers. :thumbup:

 

[uurys]

Thanks, folks.

I did a clean and relube with Militec-1 which is what I use on my small Sebenza and I like it. I also relieved the tension on the pocket clip first thing.

I'll give it a little time and see if it settles in.

Thanks again for the input.

 

[giant1]

I agree with the guys that say it may take a little time to break in. My large classic was a little stiff to start with and got better with time.

Keep using it bro and it should come good for you as things settle / wear in :thumbup: