Zt 300 lockup issues

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buckknifebibletotin

Joined
Mar 2, 2014
Messages
81
Finally went to pick up my new zt 300 that arrived a week ago and it's amazing. Feels incredibly good, NO play what so ever, decent shaving edge from factory, impeccable fit and finish. Anyways when I took it out of the box It had about ~40% lock up. Now after two days it's closer to ~55% lock up. Is this a normal break in period? I've obviously been opening it a lot but never done anyhard wrist flicks (just no reason with AO). So Is this normal or something I should be concerned about or is it the product of opening and closing lots?

Thanks
 
Sounds normal to me. Eventually your lock should settle in and stop wearing noticeably.
 
Mine got to about 75-80 percent and stopped. I beat the heck out of it and it has not changed! It would not worry me in the least!
 
This isn't a problem, this is the way they are. Go enjoy your knife, carry it, cut lots of stuff, sharpen, repeat.
 
If you run into any problems, then contact Kai. It is their product after all and they'll have the resources to fix whatever you need.
 
ok thanks guys. i was just worried becuase this is my first time dishing out over 80 bucks for a folder and my first ever frame lock.

God Bless
 
That's a GREAT knife.

I have a two of the 030X series and the lock bar on both moved over a bit after a good amount of use (didn't baby either one) but after that the lock bar has remained at the same spot. I think they settle in after some use, but they're rock solid and I certainly wouldn't be concerned. Keep in mind if you ever do have any problems with the 0300 that ZT's Customer Service is terrific and they'll take care of it for you.
 
Make sure the screws holding the frame together are tight. Sometimes lock creep can be due to the frame screws being loose.
 
brownshoe said:
Make sure the screws holding the frame together are tight. Sometimes lock creep can be due to the frame screws being loose.
Click to expand...

That was the problem. I took it apart when I first got it to take the spring out (which i didnt due to the lack of a detent hole even on the new updated model). Just loosened the three screws up re alined everything and then tightened them up good. perfect now at about 40% lock up. Am I correct assuming that due to the screws being threaded into the softer TI that locktight is unnecessary?
 
This is from KAI,

The majority of our knives require a Torx bit #6 and Torx bit #8 to fit into the head of the screws. The Torx #6 fits the pocket clip screws, handle screws, and safety lock screws on all of our current model Kershaw knives. The Torx #8 fits into the pivot screw. Some of our larger Zero Tolerance models require Torx #6, Torx #8 and Torx #10 to dismantle the knife.

Please be sure to use a Torx bit and not an Allen bit, this is a common error we see. The slight difference in shape will strip the heads out of your screws. I believe torx tools are available for purchase at Radio Shack, Sears, Harbor Freight, Lowe’s and various other hardware stores at relatively inexpensive prices. It may be a good idea to have your knife with you when you are shopping to be sure you purchase the correct size bit(s). We offer bit sizes #6 and #8 in a Keychain for $9.95. If you would prefer to purchase a set from us please call our #800 line below or provide us with your mailing address and a credit card number including authorization code and expiration date.

You have the option of adding blue Loctite to the threads of the handle, pocket clip and pivot screws to ensure a tight fit. Loctite can also be purchased at any hardware store. Allow the knife to dry for 24 hours before using again.
This is from an e-mail I got from KAI when they took care of one of my knives.

Most of our pocket knives are designed to have a pocket clip and be attached to your pants pocket while carrying on your persons. When attaching and carrying a Kershaw knife on your pants pocket, make sure to have the knife inside your pocket with the spine of the Knife blade up against a sewing seam to ensure the knife cannot open while you are carrying it.

Thank you for carrying a Kershaw / Zero Tolerance!
 
I've never had a knife that needed locktite to keep the frame steady. If the pivot pin gets a little loose, the blade can lock up but be uncentered when closed. In this case you can feel the looseness when the blade is unlocked and partially open. I have had more than a few knives that needed locktite for the pivot pin.

buckknifebibletotin, you are smarter than the many bladeforum members. I've given that advice to many, but you are the first to say you tried it. Most "send it in." I've fixed many a poor lockup in the same manner. CRKT's instructions state that their screws need periodic checks and tightening if needed. They are the only firm I know that puts that advice in their package.
 
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