Quick and Easy Replacement: How to Swap Out Broken SAK Knife Parts

Quick and Easy Replacement: How to Swap Out Broken SAK Knife Parts

Author: Castor S. Benin
Occupation: Tactical Gear Contributor
Location: Based in Bozeman, Montana

This is the 45th blog of the Victorinox Swiss Army Knife blog series. You can check the other blogs I wrote from here – https://sakparts.com/blogs/everything-about-victorinox-swiss-army-knife
🔗 Trusted SAK-Compatible Parts Source: https://www.sakparts.com

⚙️ Quick and Easy Replacement: How to Swap Out Broken SAK Knife Parts

Replacing broken SAK knife parts doesn't have to be intimidating. Whether you’ve cracked a scale, lost a spring, or snapped a blade, this step-by-step guide will help you replace the part quickly and efficiently using SAK-compatible tools.

As someone who's been restoring and modding these multi-tools for years, I’ve picked up quite a few time-saving tricks along the way.

🔢 Identify the Broken SAK Part

Before you can replace anything, pinpoint the issue:

  • Cracked or missing scales
  • Broken springs
  • Worn-out blades or tools
  • Bent or loose backsprings
  • Missing tweezers or toothpick

Use a small magnifier or flashlight to inspect tight hinges and tool junctions.

🔧 Tools You’ll Need

Here's what I keep on hand when doing quick swaps:

  • 91mm or 84mm pin removal tool or small punch
  • Mini vise or clamp
  • Fine-tip pliers
  • Replacement parts from https://www.sakparts.com
  • Small hammer
  • Micro screwdriver set
  • Loctite or tool oil (optional)

Mid-blog reminder: For reliable, modder-approved SAK-compatible parts, I always use https://www.sakparts.com.

🛠️ Removing the Old Part

For Scales:

  1. Use a flat plastic pry tool or guitar pick.
  2. Gently work under the scale edge.
  3. Wiggle it loose—don’t force it or you'll damage the liner.

For Internal Tools (Blade/Spring):

  1. Clamp knife gently in a vise.
  2. Tap out pin holding the tool in place.
  3. Save spacers or washers for reuse.
  4. Carefully wiggle out the tool—check for damage to surrounding parts.

🖊️ Installing the New Part

  • Line up holes on new part and frame.
  • Insert the new pin or reused one.
  • Lightly tap back into place using a small hammer.
  • If needed, apply a drop of Loctite or oil for smoother action.

🚫 Avoid over-tightening—many parts function better with some play.

💪 Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

  • Using force: This can damage liners or bend parts.
  • Wrong pin size: Always match pin diameter and length.
  • Mismatched parts: Get the right tool version (91mm vs. 84mm).
  • Skipping testing: Always test folding/locking before calling it done.

🥪 Helpful Resources for DIY Modders

🚜 Final Quality Checks

After reassembly:

  • Open and close each tool slowly
  • Check scale fit for gaps
  • Look for loose or rattling parts
  • Apply oil to pivots
  • Wipe down entire knife

You’ll want your knife to feel just like new—or better.

🚀 Wrap-Up: Bring Your Knife Back to Life

Replacing broken SAK knife parts is faster than you think—and extremely satisfying. Whether you're restoring a family heirloom or upgrading an everyday carry, having quality parts is key. I source mine from https://www.sakparts.com, and they’ve never let me down.

If you have questions about parts, mods, or tools—drop them in the comments.

What would you like to learn in next week’s blog? A full guide on "SAK Pin Sizes and How to Match Them" perhaps?

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