Custom Balisong: Hidden Pins or Torx Screws?

**CDR_Glock** · 01-24-2011, 08:52 AM

Greetings, Devils!

I am going to get a custom balisong and I never thought about the pivot pins before. What are the advantages/disadvantages of hidden pins and torx screws?

I was leaning towards torx screws since I can adjust them and put in PB washers. With hidden pins, you get what you get...It's a 29 Knives by Chris Olofson.

Which do you prefer and why?

**Glenn** · 01-24-2011, 08:54 AM

Torx = Adjust-ability

**skcheng** · 01-24-2011, 09:38 AM

Are you going to flip it, carry it?? Use it for anything??? If so, I would opt for torx screws and I would consider Ti handles. Otherwise, you may be looking at a 9oz knife.

Hidden pins are pretty, but not too practical since they can't be adjusted. Up to you.

**semtexx** · 01-24-2011, 10:03 AM

Torx can be adjusted and can be loctited. With pins, the if the handles and blade get loose it can't be adjusted.

**Parker** · 01-24-2011, 10:29 AM

Pin it.

Pins show that the maker can build a knife and set it for prolonged use.

Pins are the mark of an adult knife which is designed as a tool or weapon.

Pins show that you will not be fucking with it, but you will be committing to it as well as the maker. Therefore you will be involved in the design consultation and not just getting another "kit" knife.

Oh, and since it's being built as a custom, have it built of proper steel and not S30V.

I'd suggest hard chromed or Fail-Zero finished tool steel - 01, A2, M2, 52-100, something like that would be excellent. Again, shows your commitment to the knife. Fail-Zero is a new finish available thru Cylinder and Slide or Fail Zero directly. Just a thought. You'll have far better blade performance and not another Bali out there would be like it (until I order one!)

I've not considered a custom much, but I do like his knives a lot. And having a knife done like this, wow.

**hot.soapy** · 01-24-2011, 01:36 PM

ok heres the deal. on a quality channel handle bali youre going to be happy with either pins or screw type pivots. for a collector looking for throwback style, pins are the way to go. the screw type pivots on 29s are executed flawlessly as are the pin pivots. screws create a tighter fit which will loosen over time but can be tightened. loctite is not nescessary on 29s. the fit and finish on them is exemplary. the screws will loosen and can be tightened by hand. or you can wrench them tight and they will stay longer. once I lost one in the back yard at night and rushed the dogs inside and had something like a csi crimescene going. those fuckers are little. I have had mine completely apart once for a thorough cleaning and resurfacing. hidden pins are a stable and classy way to go. a quality pinned knife will outlive even the longest living human. perhaps even birds. the knife becomes simplistic in nature. pins require about 10 parts less than a torx drive pivot system. I dont see any real downfall to either system when a 29 knife is in question. really depends on what youre into.
I picked screws because my carry knife has them.

**Nathan Dewey** · 01-24-2011, 01:46 PM

I just made a bali with "hidden pins" and it was a SERIOUS PAIN. I'm sticking with screw construction for the time being, even if it's channel style.

**hot.soapy** · 01-24-2011, 01:49 PM

I forgot to add if youre ever planning to send it to canada get the torx screws.

**MMArtie** · 01-24-2011, 02:19 PM

I like both, but I think it depends on your flipping/carrying of it. When I think hidden pins, I picture the older PCC & BM, and after awhile of flipping with them the pins will eventually show, so for that I say screws. If it's not going to see much action, I'd say whatever looks more pleasing to your eye. Just my 2 cents.

**CDR_Glock** · 01-24-2011, 03:35 PM

The knife is a Carbon Fiber/Stainless Handle with a 4" Scimitar Blade by Chris Olofson.

I am still debating upon latch or latchless version. Leaning towards latchless.

**intron** · 01-24-2011, 04:20 PM

latchless

**skcheng** · 01-24-2011, 04:40 PM

Originally Posted by CDR_Glock

The knife is a Carbon Fiber/Stainless Handle with a 4" Scimitar Blade by Chris Olofson.

I am still debating upon latch or latchless version. Leaning towards latchless.

Latchless is a new trend these days. I don't know? I like the latch. Without a latch, you'll always need to sheath your knife if you ever intend to carry it. But I guess a fancy pants 29 Knives won't often see the light of day, so it doesn't matter.

I'm really not one to talk since 90% of my collection is purely eye candy.

**Raoul Duke** · 01-24-2011, 06:03 PM

I'd go with screws...they are the way forward. I can adjust screws easily.

Pins Can be adjusted, but skill is required, hidden pins...I guess in theory could...but I don't have the skills or tools.

I have removed latches on all of my knives to see if I like it...the cons outweigh the pro's for me... But it does feel nice to flip...