Stripped handle screws on new RAT 1 :-/

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KennyB

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Jan 19, 2010
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I have been fiddling with it trying to get the blade centered, really needless tinkering (though it was getting really close to rubbing the liner) and I stripped two of the screws without really noticing how hard I was torquing them. They are way too stripped for the T6 bit I have but I don't think a fresh one would make difference either. They look more like regular hex/Alan headed screws now.

So I mean if/when I ever have to take it apart again is there an easy way to get them out? Easy meaning without drilling them out. I have a cheap dremel and needle file set, I was thinking just cutting a slot in the heads to fit a slotted screwdriver. As much of a pain that sounds like I can't think of anything better... Maybe trying a T7 or a small Alan key?

Was one of the new D2 ones too. This is why I can't have nice things.
 
I think a fresh T6 will work. What brand T6? Use a German T6, like Wiha.

Maybe American. The steel is typically harder and more precise; they fit perfectly. I managed to unscrew every T6 I stripped with a cheapo T6 with a Wiha.

Some strong hard needle nose pliers may work.
 
Has the thread locker been defeated already? If not try heating the screws with a soldering iron before the next time you try unscrewing. As said above, quality tools make a difference as well. Last resort is to send it in to Ontario. One of the perks of buying an inexpensive knife from a reliable company is you get the warranty.
 
Same thing happen to me and my Sebenza, I stripped the clip screw, and I did a small cut and it came off real easy with flat head, and CRK has the best Customer Service, I got 3 screws and one grease free, back on topic, that is the only way, I tried a lot of things before, nothing beats a good cut, you can use Perma Blue to turn the screws all black, its hardly noticeable
 
Brother, I had this happen to my grip screws on my pistol. Go to lowes, home depot, whatever and get Z out screw remover set. You will not need to drill them out. Just apply a good amount of elbow grease. It worked for me.
 
T6 is a PITA for a screw you might tighten or loosen often.
T8 should be minimum on something like a knife, 99% of the time it would only be a matter of a small cost difference in manufacturing.

I would try an Allen key of Similar size, I have had luck doing that.
 
Thanks for the suggestions so far. Only reason I really don't want to cut them is because I would have to cut into the scales too. I am going to check out that Z out screw remover kit, well maybe a fresh T6 first. The one I have is from Ace Hardware and seems really soft.
 
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