Why is the clip different?

[captain spaulding]

So I just received my new Spyderco Pacific Salt with SS blade and noticed that the pocket clip is different than my Pacific Salt with Black blade. Just wondering why. Is it a newer model? Is it because its the SS blade? I will post pictures so you can compare. I'm a little bummed because I like the clip on my Black Pacific Salt much more. I also noticed the spring sticks out a small amount when opened. I don't think it should be a problem at all, (besides bugging me) but I added a picture just to show it.

[Heinz Doofenshmirtz]

For the clip, probably just what they had on hand that day at the factory that would work for the knife.

The backspring sticking up a bit is more of an issue in my book.  Probably due to small discrepancies in manufacturing tolerances.  But, I'd check it out thoroughly to make sure it's not something that's going to compromise safety or performance, and if I felt it did, I'd ask for an exchange for a different one.

[captain spaulding]

Yea I am still wondering if I should return it for another one. I just think its a pain to do. I have tried to get it to close/fail (while deployed) and it would not so that's good, but I don't really know how I could tell if there is anything wrong with it besides that. I just noticed that if I deploy the blade and then try to close it with firm pressure without pressing the release the spring will move down slightly and become flush with the handles. Honestly I think it will be just fine, but if I cut my finger off I guess I will send it to Spyerco.  The knife, not my finger. 

[jekostas]

An improperly machined back lock will eventually fail.  It puts excess pressure on the leaf spring that holds the locking bar under pressure.

Use it, and see if you start to get any up down blade play - if you do, exchange the knife.

Exact same thing happened for me with a Native 3.

[captain spaulding]

From the picture can you tell if it is a improperly machined back lock?

[jekostas]

The lock bar should sit flush with the handle when open, but the blade may be slightly off centre at the pivot as well.  Is there any up-down blade play in lockup?

[captain spaulding]

Nope no play in the blade at all.

[captain spaulding]

Just decided to call Spyderco and explain my concern. The man I spoke with (john) was very helpful and ask if I could send him pictures which I already had on hand so no issue there. I just did so and will wait to hear back to see what he says.

[captain spaulding]

I added these photos as well.

[jekostas]

If there's no blade play in lockup it should be fine.  Spyderco does have a lifetime warranty, even if their warranty department can be difficult to deal with at times.

That said, an improperly aligned lock bar is definitely a manufacturing defect, and you'd be well within your rights to send the knife back or exchange for another one.  I had a helluva time finding a Dragonfly 2 that didn't have the same problem.

[captain spaulding]

The Customer Service reviewed the pictures and told me to send it back for a return. I also asked them about the clip being different and black oxide coating being safe to use for food prep. He said the clip was changed because of demand and the black oxide coating has not been proven to be bad for your health. Not in those exact words, but I can quote his e-mail if needed.

[Gareth]

did you get your replacement yet Cap?

[cgjones]

did you get your replacement yet Cap?

+1

[captain spaulding]

Yes I got a replacement. The Lock Bar on the replacement sticks out from the handles much less which eases my mind in worrying about improper lockup. The Lock bar is still not aligned very well, but honestly i'm not worried about it and would assume it is more common than I had thought. I am happy with the replacement and if I have any problem I will contact Spyderco.