All About Pocket Knives

I bought this knife with a broken backspring. Didn't think it would be a big deal to make another one and get it going. First Western I've ever taken apart and sure wasn't expecting what I found. I've never seen another spring set up like this on a lock back knife. Maybe other companies used this as well? Looking if over and have decided to make a tail piece and a spring like on a conventional lock back and put it back together. Don't suppose anyone would have another 532 with a bad blade in it? Thought the pics might help someone else with a Western & broken spring.

wow that IS unique never had one apart either that is interesting.

Jim (coffeecup) emailed and said he had a Western 532 with some damage. I was so happy to get that to have a complete spring to work with. Guess what? Totally different set up. This knife Jim sent has a more conventional type spring. In both knives a cotter pin has been used as a tensioner in different methods. Who would have thought that? Question - Would any cotter pin work on this? Would it have to be a certain type then hardened? Is a cotter pin spring steel? Not very experienced in Western knives thought I would share my experience with others.

I have a 532 but I have not had it apart, they sure looks different.
They do not seem to be very common.

Thanks for posting the pics!

i suspect that would be spring tempered stock, very neat to see the variations in production though!

This has been bugging me so I did some digging on it. Apparently they do make some cotter pins from spring steel. Great to know where to get some for projects.


http://monsterfastener.com/item/ctrpss- ... aQod0C0ATQ