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How To Apply Loctite | Balisong Maintenance Tips


What is Loctite? How do you apply it? When do I need it? These are all questions Lucas answers in this tutorial. Stay tuned to learn all the ins and outs you need to know about Loctite. 

For this Maintenance You Will Need:

  • T10 Torx Drive
  • 243 Loctite

You can purchase everything you need to maintain your balisong/ butterfly knife on our website! 

What is Loctite?

To put it simply, Loctite is a type of adhesive. Loctite is actually a brand name, and the real term is called "theadlocker." Loctite or threadlocker is applied to the threads of the screws to prevent corrosion and loosening. We personally recommend using 243 Locite for your balisongs.

When do I need to use Loctite?

Flipping, carrying, and using your balisong will sometimes cause the Loctite to wear down which can then cause the screw to work its way out. That can lead to things like more handle play or losing your entire screw. A good indication on when you need to apply some Loctite to your screw is when the screw on your balisong keeps falling out or coming loose, and screwing the screw back in is no longer working for you.

How do I Apply Loctite? 

Step 1: Take Your Screws Out

The first thing you want to do is take the affected screw(s). If you are having trouble taking out your screw(s), you may want to check out our post "How to Fix Spinning Pivots."

Step 2: Identify The Threads

Find the threads of the screw. This is where we will be applying the Loctite. 

Step 3: Apply the Loctite

Next, apply a tiny drop of Loctite at the end of the screw. Lucas usually recommends a drop the size of a rice grain. Then, circle the Loctite around the threads to create an even application. It is important that it is evenly distirbuted so it does not spill out over the top of the pivots. You can also blow on it to ensure the Locite is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Put the Screws Back into Your Pivots

Screw the screw(s) back in to your pivot(s). 

Step 5: Let the Loctite Cure

Loctite need time to cure. You want to wait anywhere from from 12-24 hours for the Loctite to dry up so it properly holds your screws in. If you don't wait that long, the Loctite might solidify and you are going to end up with a lot more handle pay than you are use to. 


  • T10 Torx Driver
  • Lubricating Oil
  • Loctite
(Wiha T10 Torx Driver, Loctite 243 Thread Locker, Hoppe's No.9 Lubricating Oil)

(Wiha T10 Torx Driver, Loctite 243 Thread Locker, KPL Knife Lube)

KPL Knife Lube is a synthetic lubricant designed specifically for the pivot mechanisms in modern folding knives including balisong and balisong trainers. KPL's high-end synthetic base provides ultimate smoothness.