How to Tighten a Squid Industries Knife

Squid Industries knives, particularly their balisongs or butterfly trainers, are known for their quality and durability. However, regular use can lead to loosening of the hardware, causing handle play or blade wobble. Proper maintenance, especially tightening the knife’s screws, can keep your Squid Industries knife functioning smoothly and extend its lifespan. Follow this guide to learn how to tighten your Squid Industries knife safely and effectively.

Step 1: Gather the Right Tools

Before you begin, it’s essential to have the correct tools to avoid damaging your knife’s screws. Squid Industries knives commonly use Torx screws, typically in T6 or T8 sizes. Here’s what you’ll need:

Torx screwdriver set (confirm your knife’s specific screw size, though T6 and T8 are standard)
Loctite (thread locker) – blue (medium strength) for a longer-lasting hold

High-quality Torx screwdrivers are crucial to prevent stripping, especially if you need to tighten the screws regularly.

Step 2: Inspect the Industries Knife for Loose Areas

Start by examining your knife to identify any loose components:

Hold the knife by its handles and test for side-to-side movement or blade wobble. Note if either the pivot screws near the blade or handle screws show signs of looseness.
Check the handle play by gently wiggling the handles. A small amount of play is normal, but excessive movement indicates a need for tightening.
Blade play can also develop over time; a properly tightened knife should have minimal blade movement when closed.

Step 3: Begin Tightening the Screws Carefully

Once you’ve identified the loose screws, start tightening them, being careful not to overtighten:

Turn each screw clockwise in small increments (a quarter turn each time). It’s best to tighten slowly and check the knife’s movement after each adjustment.
Avoid excessive tightening on the pivot screws. If the screws are too tight, the knife’s movement may become stiff, affecting your ability to open and close it smoothly. Loosen slightly if this happens.

It’s important to make gradual adjustments and test the knife’s function frequently. A well-tightened Squid Industries knife should have minimal handle play and a free-swinging blade without any wobble.

Step 4: Apply Loctite for Long-Lasting Tightness

For a more durable hold on the screws, consider using Loctite, a thread locker that helps prevent screws from loosening over time:

Remove the screws you want to secure (usually the pivot screws) and apply a small amount of Loctite to the threads.
Reinsert and tighten the screws using the same careful approach, turning them gradually until they’re secure without over-tightening.
Allow the Loctite to set for 24 hours before using the knife. This curing period ensures the Loctite fully bonds, keeping screws tight during extended use.

Note: Use Loctite sparingly and select a medium-strength (blue) version. This type of Loctite allows for future adjustments, unlike the red version, which is stronger and requires heat to remove.

Also check Master utility knife .

Step 5: Test the Knife’s Functionality

After each adjustment, test the knife’s functionality to ensure it’s operating as expected:

Handle Play: Hold the knife by one handle and check for any side-to-side movement. A small amount of play is natural, but excessive movement should be addressed.
Blade Swing: Check that the blade swings freely and smoothly. If the movement is restricted, you may have overtightened and need to loosen the screws slightly.

A properly tightened Squid Industries knife should have minimal handle play and smooth blade movement.

Step 6: Regular Maintenance Tips

Maintaining your Squid Industries knife is more than just tightening screws. Regular maintenance will keep it operating at its best and prevent hardware wear over time:

Avoid Over-Tightening: Constantly adjusting or overtightening the screws can wear down the threads. Only tighten when necessary.
Clean and Lubricate Regularly: Dust, dirt, and other particles can build up over time. Use a soft cloth and a drop of knife oil to keep the blade and pivot area clean and smooth.
Check Screws Periodically: Screws may naturally loosen over time. Check them every few weeks or after heavy use to ensure your knife remains secure.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance, including tightening screws, is key to extending the life of your Squid Industries knife. With the right tools, careful adjustments, and periodic checks, you can keep your knife in optimal condition and ready for use. Whether you’re practicing flipping or just enjoying the craftsmanship of a well-made knife, proper care ensures your Squid Industries knife remains a reliable tool for years to come.