Swiss Champ Blade Flex Issue?

D

Doug S

Joined
Feb 1, 2006
Messages
605
I was using my Swiss Champ this evening, and I noticed something that I hadn't noticed previously. When the large blade is closed, the tip of the blade appears to be touching the base of the file (which is next to it). At first I was concerned that the blade edge could be damaged if it hits the file upon flicking the blade closed, but I don't think this is happening. I do notice a little scuffed area on the left side of the blade tip where it looks to be slightly abraded from rubbing against the base of the file from opening and closing these two implements. When the blade is opened it appears to be perfectly straight, but when it is closed the blade seems to have enough flex in it to allow the tip to brush up against the file.

Has anyone noticed this on their Swiss Champ. Should I send it back to Victorinox, or just be conscious enough of this issue to be careful when opening and closing the blade? Is this a common thing? I have a Recruit, a Super Tinker, a Craftsman, Swiss Champ Plus, and a couple of Wengers that have the blades set perfectly straight in their channel when closed.

Thanks for any comments.
 
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I would send it back Doug, it shouldn't do that and over time it will really wear. Vic warranty and service is really good, they will make it right. Keep us posted on it ;)
 
Dantor,

Thanks for the response. I'll send it in tomorrow. I've been carrying it since Christmas. I wonder if it's been like that from the beginning. I would have thought I'd have noticed it, though. I'll let you know how it turns out.
 
you know I hear about this once in awhile, with many things, folders, saks, MTs. I think it's just once in awhile one slips by quality control, it happens but you remind us to inspect our gear and make sure "alls clear!" lol you should have no problems and a fast turn around time, good luck bro ;)

ohh and for more reading, checkout www.sosakonline.com and www.forum.multitool.org/
lots of info.
 
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Dantor said:
I would send it back Doug, it shouldn't do that and over time it will really wear. Vic warranty and service is really good, they will make it right. Keep us posted on it ;)
Click to expand...

Something jogged my memory of similar marks on my Swisschamp, so I took a look. Sure enough, there was some wear on the file side tip of the large blade, as described by OP. I hadn't before recognized the cause and effect of it because there are other scuffs and scratches on the blade, so I figured this was from use. So what? That's what happens to tools. On my blade, the amount of burnishing from the file is minor after 15 years of swinging the blade in and out, so I don't expect heavy erosion anytime soon. My guess is that you are looking at much the same thing.

Honestly, I don't think it worth the time, effort and expense to send off your Champ for this issue. Perhaps, in the future, if you ever need an actual repair, make note of it then.
 
but it's rubbing against metal, and the file (harded metal) which could really wear down the blade over time, and if he tries to "bend" the blade back, it could do more damage, so I disagree,

a simple 5 dollar shipping cost (or possibly nothing if he calls and they approve, which is just a chance) and he would get a fixed or new tool.
It's one of the reasons why we get quality tools, because of the warranty.
 
I understand both points of view, but to tell the truth I have an Explorer Plus coming this week, so I don't mind being without the Swiss Champ for a little while. Kinda interested in seeing how Victorinox handles the warranty service, anyway. Also, if the blade stayed exactly as it is right now, maybe the damage would be minimal over time, but if the blade moves even the slightest bit more toward the file, the blade edge will be landing on top of the file. I'd rather not be worried about this every time I close my knife.

Thanks for the comments.
 
Sent the Swiss Champ out yesterday. I'll will be anxiously awaiting its return, but in the meantime I picked up an Explorer Plus to keep me company:). Even though my Swiss Champ had the small issue discussed in this thread, it is very evident from looking over this Explorer Plus (and my other Vics) that Victorinox does a nice job of putting together a well made product.
 
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