How to apply Loctite® on my butterfly knife/balisong?
What is Loctite®? Why do my butterfly knives/balisong need Loctite®? How do I apply Loctite® on butterfly knives/balisongs? When do I need it? If these are questions you find yourself asking, then you're at the right place. We have everything you need to know about applying Loctite on your butterfly knife/balisong.
What is Loctite®?
To put it simply, Loctite® is a type of thread-locking adhesive. Loctite® is actually a brand name, and the real term is called "threadlocker." Loctite® or thread locker is applied to the threads of the screws to prevent corrosion and loosening. We personally recommend using 243 Locite® for your balisongs.
Why do I need Loctite® for my butterfly knife/balisong?
Flipping, carrying, and using your butterfly knife, also known as a balisong, will sometimes cause the Loctite to wear down, which can then cause the screw to work its way out. That can lead to things like more handle play or losing your entire screw. A good indication of when you need to apply some Loctite to your screw is when the screw on your balisong keeps falling out or coming loose, and screwing the screw back in is no longer working for you.
How do I apply Loctite® on my butterfly knife/balisong?
For this Balisong Maintenance You Will Need:
- T10 Torx Drive
- 243 Loctite® or your preferred threadlocker
- Microfiber Cloth and Rubbing Alcohol for Cleaning (Optional)
Don't have a Torx driver or threadlocker? You can purchase everything you need to maintain your balisong/ butterfly knife on our website!
Step 1: Take Your Screws Out
The first thing you want to do is take the affected screw(s) out of your balisong. If you are having trouble taking out your screw(s), because one side keeps spinning, read our post on "How to Fix Spinning Pivots."
Step 2: Identify The Threads and Clean if Necessary
Find the threads of the screw. This is where we will be applying the Loctite® or threadlocker. Try your best to clean out the old Loctite® before applying a new layer. You can do this by using some sort of pointed object to push it out or by submerging the screw and/or pivot in alcohol or acetone and using a microfiber cloth to wipe the screws down.
Step 3: Apply the Loctite
Next, apply a tiny drop of Loctite® at the end of the screw. We usually recommend a drop the size of a rice grain. Then, circle the Loctite® around the threads to create an even application. It is important that it is evenly distributed so it does not spill out over the top of the pivots. You can also blow on it to ensure the Locite® is evenly distributed.
Circle the Loctite® around the threads around the balisong screw to create an even application.
Step 4: Put the Screws Back into Your Pivots
Now, screw the screw(s) back into your pivot(s) through your balisong.
Step 5: Let the Loctite®/Threadlocker Cure
Loctite® needs time to cure. You want to wait anywhere from 12-24 hours for the Loctite® to dry up so it properly holds your screws in. If you don't wait that long, the Loctite® might solidify, and you are going to end up with a lot more handle pay on your balisong than you are used to.
