Zytel question

[Glockfan]

Question,
   Anybody know if the Zytel handle inserts can be replaced? I have a bo core that I absolutely love, but the Zytel at the ends of the handles, are chipped up and a little knarly. I've had this tool for years, and this damage was done by the previous owner, but my OCD kicks in whenever it's carried . Normal wear doesn't bother me, but this is more on the abuse side.

Any input is greatly appreciated!

Thx

[captain spaulding]

To be honest I am not sure. I bet it is technically possible but probably not very feasible. Your better off replacing the entire handle in my opinion.

[Glockfan]

Kind of what I'm thinking also, thx!

[Don Pablo]

Have you considered sanding and polishing? The chipped parts won't grow back, but you could make them less obvious by smoothing them out. 

[Don Pablo]

Have you considered sanding and polishing? The chipped parts won't grow back, but you could make them less obvious by smoothing them out. 

Unless Nylon (aka Zytel) can't be polished. I've never tried it myself though I EDC a Kick.

[Toolslinger]

If you fully disassemble the tool, then you can remove the zytel inserts. You would need another set of inserts from a Core to replace them. Then it would be a matter of reassembling the tool.

The inserts are not glued in. They are held in place by friction fit and notches on the handle. You should be able to remove them using only your hands.

If you can find a cheap Core in good shape, then this might be feasible. Plus it would give you spare parts.

[Glockfan]

Great info guys!! Thanks 

[AimlessWanderer]

I'd just sand them down and smooth out the damaged areas. If the zytel isn't cracked within the handle itself and causing functional problems, I would do as little sanding as was necessary to just take the discomfort out in use.

[Poncho65]

All great suggestions So let us know what you decide to do

[zoidberg]

Is there damage on all four inserts?

I have two inserts here, one from each handle.

I'll keep an eye out for the other two.

[Glockfan]

Is there damage on all four inserts?

I have two inserts here, one from each handle.

I'll keep an eye out for the other two.

The 2 that are real bad, are both on the file side, at the plier end. I  wonder if LM would replace them?  Thanks for the offer! I may send it in, and see what they say.

On a side note, I'm still amazed every time you all offer advise, or help out, that there are others totally into these dang things.   Pretty cool!

[captain spaulding]

If you fully disassemble the tool, then you can remove the zytel inserts. You would need another set of inserts from a Core to replace them. Then it would be a matter of reassembling the tool.

The inserts are not glued in. They are held in place by friction fit and notches on the handle. You should be able to remove them using only your hands.

If you can find a cheap Core in good shape, then this might be feasible. Plus it would give you spare parts.

Great info and very good to know. 

[Breezy12]

Is there damage on all four inserts?

I have two inserts here, one from each handle.

I'll keep an eye out for the other two.

The 2 that are real bad, are both on the file side, at the plier end. I  wonder if LM would replace them?  Thanks for the offer! I may send it in, and see what they say.

On a side note, I'm still amazed every time you all offer advise, or help out, that there are others totally into these dang things.   Pretty cool!

that's a great question... it doesn't really affect the functionality of the tool, so I am curious how they will handle it. please keep us posted!

and just for the record... I completely understand where you're coming from. that would drive my OCD bonkers too.

[mwb1100]

I  wonder if LM would replace them?

 I'd shoot them an email.

So far I've never contacted LM by phone or email myself, but I've read posts where people who have contacted them get straight information about what's possible/available,