How To Tighten A Squid Industries Knife

Squid Industries knives, especially balisongs or butterfly trainers, are known for their quality and long-lasting hair models. However, it is common to find that the hardware works loose from frequent use, resulting in handle wobble or blade play. 

To ensure your Squid Industries knife functions properly and lasts a long time, follow these basic steps I will write in my article. I have a detailed article on how to tighten a squid industry knife. Most articles I have found are professional, but I use straightforward methods that even a commoner can understand.

Steps For Tightening a Squid Industries knife

It’s important to gather all the ingredients before you start baking or cooking; similarly, you should have all the items ready beforehand for this as well. Otherwise, knife screws can get damaged. I will separately mention what items you need and for what purpose.

1. Torx Screwdriver Set: Different knives use different screw sizes, but the T6 and T8 sizes are pretty standard. It’s a good idea to check which one your knife needs.
2. Loctite (Thread Locker): It’s a special glue for screws. Using the blue version will help keep screws tight and secure for a longer time.
3. High-quality Torx screwdrivers: investing in good screwdrivers is essential. They help prevent damage to the screws, especially if you need to tighten them frequently. 

After getting these things, move on to the next steps.

Step 1: Check for Loose Areas on the Knife

Try to rock the blade or wiggle the knife from side to side while holding it by the handles. Check carefully near the blade and handle screws and the screws that hold the small turning part, which can turn horizontally.

Swing the handles slightly to see whether they move independently from the rest of the wheel. It is okay to have a little movement, but much of it will require tightening it.

Blade play can accumulate. An adequately tightened knife should show minimal blade play when closed.

Step 2: Tight Screws Carefully

After locating the loose screws, carefully begin to tighten them.

• Screw each one of the screws gradually, with possible degrees of thirty degrees at most. Pull the nut until it is tight, then move the knife to check its position in the groove after each adjustment.
• Beware the pivot screws; if they are tightened too much, the knife will be difficult to both open and shut. If this happens, turn them a little loose.
• Gradually change the direction and often evaluate how the knife’s blade acts.

The Squid Industries knife provides little movement in the handle, and the blade swings easily without any vibration.

Step 3: Apply Loctite For Long-Lasting Tightness

• It removes the screws that need to be fixed (commonly the pivot screws), then applies a small amount of Loctite to the threads.
• Replace and fasten the screws gently in such a manner that they hold firmly without applying too much pressure.
• Loctite should dry for 24 hours before you use your knife on a carving project. This also allows time for the material to set correctly, making sure it holds the screws tightly when we use them.

Note: I recommend using it in moderation to get a medium-strength Loctite (blue). This option is better for future adjustments, unlike the stronger red version that must be lasered away from this surface.

Step 4: Check how the knife works

After making adjustments, test how well your knife works:

• Handle Play: Take one handle in hand and shake the other horizontally across the handle. A little play is all right, but with much play, you need to alter it.
• Blade Swing: Check that the blade moves quickly during its sweeping motion. If it feels too confined or restricted, then perhaps you have to go a little overboard with the screws and need to ease off a little.

When Squid Industries puts the knife together the right way, there shouldn’t be any wobbly handle, and the blade should move smoothly as you use it.

How To Take Care Of  Squid Industries Knife Maintenance

• Don’t Over-Tighten
  • Too much adjustment or tightening can ruin the threads. Only tighten when it is needed.
• Clean and Oil Often
  • Dust and dirt collect over time. Use a soft cloth and knife oil to keep the blade and pivot area clean.
• Check Screws Often
  • Screws work loose over time. Check them every few weeks or after heavy use to ensure your knife remains tight.

Do’s And Don’ts While Tightening A Squid Industry Knife

Do’s

Do Use the Right Tools

Always use a T10 Torx driver when using your Squid Industries knife screws. Thus, you won’t strip the screws and make sure you can still adjust them properly. 

Do Squeeze the Handles Together

When unscrewing or tightening the pivot screws, squeeze the handles tight. That stops the pivots from spinning and makes it easier to adjust.

Do Use Lubrication

Add a tiny drop of oil to the pivot area before putting your knife back together. This helps everything work well and reduces friction. 

Do Use Loctite Again

After adjusting the screws, consider using Loctite or a thread locker to keep them tight. It’ll help stop them from getting loose over time with regular use.

Last, I always recommend a test is a must. Once you have tightened everything, open and close the knife to see how it works. You know it is good when the handle moves just right and the action is smooth.

Don’ts

Don’t Overtighten

Be careful not to overtighten the screws. Tightening too much can make the handles hard to move or hurt the threads. Just pull them enough to remove any wobble without losing movement.

Don’t Skip Cleaning

Before assembling your knife, clear out any grime or other debris from inside the handle and surrounding the pivot point. A well-cared-for knife cuts well & lasts much longer.

Never use tools that which are not compatible with your knife’s screws. Wrong tools may hurt the screws and make it hard to adjust them later.

Don’t ignore the stiffness of the handles

If your handles become stiff after tightening, loosen the screws a bit until you have a good balance between tightness and smooth movement.

Don’t Rush the Process

Take your time with maintenance. Rushing can cause mistakes, like stripping screws or misaligning parts, which can harm your knife’s overall performance.

Related FAQs

How do I use Loctite when tightening my knife? 

First of all, tighten the screws. Then, remove them, apply a bit of Loctite on the threads, and put them back in. Tighten it gently. After 24 hours, you may use the knife. 

What should I do if my pivot screws keep spinning?

A6: If the pivot screws turn but do not come out, try holding handles tightly while unscrewing. You can use an eraser or a thick rubber band on the pivot side for better grip as you unscrew. 

How tight should I make the screws?

Tighten it to eliminate the play without stiffening the knife. If you tighten it to that point and still feel too tight, loosen it until you feel smooth action. 

How often should I check my knife for tightness?

It is always a good idea to check your knife every few weeks or after using it a lot to ensure all screws are tight and working well. 

Can I clean my knife while I tighten it? 

A9: Yes, you can! Cleaning out any dirt or debris inside the handle and around the pivot area will help your knife perform better and last longer. 

What if my knife appears stiff from over tightening it?

If your knife feels stiff after tightening, then back off a little on the screws until you achieve a balance between tightness and smooth operation.

Final Words

Regular maintenance will make your Squid Industries knife last longer. You will use the right tools, make careful adjustments, and check them periodically to ensure your knife is in top condition and ready for use. 

Whether you practice flipping or enjoy the quality of a well-made knife, proper care will ensure that your Squid Industries knife remains a reliable tool for years to come.