Essential Tools for Spyderco Knife Repairs
By Logan M. Fraser – Custom Knife Modder & Spyderco Parts Specialist, Based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada
This is the 11th blog of the Spyderco Knife blog series. You can check the other blogs I’ve written here: https://spymodz.com/blogs
Whether you’re a first-time tinkerer or a seasoned blade modder, having the essential tools for Spyderco knife repairs will save you time, prevent stripped screws, and help keep your gear running like new. The right toolset turns a frustrating job into a smooth tune-up.
As someone who’s customized dozens of models from the Delica to the PM2, here are the tools I personally rely on—and why they matter.
1. Precision Torx Drivers 🔨
Almost every Spyderco knife is built with Torx screws, typically sizes T6, T8, and T10.
What to use:
Wiha or Wera precision Torx drivers (not cheap, but last for years)
Avoid generic $5 driver kits—they often strip fasteners and ruin pivots
✅ Tip: T6 is used for body screws, T8 for pivots, and occasionally T10 for lanyard tubes.
2. Non-Marring Tweezers 🤍
For grabbing washers, nested liners, or caged ball-bearing parts, non-magnetic tweezers are a must. You want control without scratching anodized parts or damaging micarta.
3. Soft Bench Mat or Tray 🌟
Use a magnetic tray or padded mat to prevent losing small screws. A bench mat with tool cutouts and material labels helps you organize hardware from disassembly.
Silicone mats are great for resisting oils and cleaning agents
Some even have magnetized zones to secure parts
4. Pivot Lube 💧
For smooth blade deployment, always have a quality pivot oil:
KPL (Knife Pivot Lube) or Nano-Oil are excellent options
A drop at each side of the pivot is all you need
Avoid WD-40 and thick oils—they attract dust and gunk quickly.
5. Compressed Air or Soft Brush 🚄
Perfect for cleaning out the lock channel, detent ball track, and pivot after disassembly. You can also use:
A soft-bristled paintbrush
Electronics-safe canned air
Helps prevent gritty action and blade stick.
6. Loctite Threadlocker (Blue 242) ✂️
After a full disassembly or pivot tuning, apply Loctite Blue 242 to pivot or body screws to prevent them from backing out. Don’t overtighten—just snug and secure.
7. Microfiber Cloths 🪜
Use these for:
Blade wiping after cleaning
Handling finished mods without scratching
Keeping fingerprints off polished hardware
Always keep a few on hand for post-repair wipe-downs.
8. Optional: Digital Calipers 📏
If you’re getting deep into customization (like swapping backspacers or washers), a set of digital calipers helps you measure thickness down to the hundredth of a millimeter.
Useful when verifying compatibility for parts sourced from https://spymodz.com, where exact fit matters.
Bonus Tool: Patience ⏳
It sounds cheesy, but most damage I see happens when people rush:
Cross-threaded pivots
Over-tightened screws
Lost washers
Take your time. Watch a video or follow a breakdown guide from trusted modders or https://forum.spyderco.com before attempting your first teardown.
Looking for Mod-Ready Parts? 🎁
We offer precision-fit screws, clips, and backspacers tested on real Spyderco models at https://spymodz.com. Each listing includes compatibility notes so you know what fits before you buy.
Whether you’re replacing stripped hardware or doing a full custom rebuild, having the right parts—and tools—makes all the difference.
Final Thoughts 🔪
Spyderco knives are built to last, but even the best gear benefits from proper care. With the right tools, a little patience, and some modder knowledge, you can keep your knife dialed in for years to come.
What tools do you use for your Spyderco repairs? Drop your must-haves or mod kit in the comments below—and let me know what you want covered in next week’s Spyderco Knife Blog Series.