The safety lock is one of the most delicate components of the entire firing mechanism. Its characteristics make it particularly sensitive: it is very small, measuring just 0.7 mm (about 0.028”) thick, and features a typical thin, tab-like shape.
Furthermore, it is not visible from the outside because it sits beneath the handle scale in a curved, almost balanced position. For this reason, it must always be adjusted with extreme caution.
How to use the safety lock on an automatic knife
When the knife is closed, the safety should be in what we will call the “OFF” position, namely at the end of the slot closest to the firing button.
Using your fingernail, slide the safety lock into the “ON” position, moving it down the slot toward the bottom bolster.
At this point, the knife is ready to be fired.
What to do if the safety is too stiff to unlock
Sometimes the safety lock causes too much friction in its housing, feeling excessively tight or difficult to slide.
We actually prefer to keep it slightly snug rather than too loose, because over time, with regular use and depending on handle materials like horn, the safety can loosen up and might start sliding on its own.
To adjust it:
- move the safety lock to the OFF position;
- use one of our custom tools, which can be purchased alongside your knife;
- hook the tool onto the cap of the safety button;
- very carefully, rotate it slowly counterclockwise (towards the right);
- if the result is not yet satisfactory, repeat the process multiple times, making only tiny adjustments each time.
It is crucial to proceed slowly and calmly: the safety lock is extremely thin, and applying too much force or moving it too far can easily damage it.
What to do if the safety is too loose or slipping
If the safety lock slides too freely or even tends to fall down on its own, the adjustment process is different.
Here is how to proceed:
- move the safety to the ON position;
- insert only the left tab of the adjustment tool;
- gently lift the hooked part upward;
- repeat this operation if necessary, always using small increments.
Once again, be incredibly gentle. Forcing it will cause the safety lock to break.
Things you should NEVER do
A stiletto knife should only be fired when the safety lock is in the ON position (disengaged).
If you try to fire the knife with the safety in the OFF position (engaged), the internal tab can slip under the button, bend out of shape, and stop working properly. If this happens, the handle scales must be removed—a procedure that should only be performed by an experienced professional or by the manufacturer. The safety lock will then need to be bent back into shape, if possible, or completely replaced.
We also highly discourage putting oil directly into the safety slot to make it slide better. Oil can attract dust and dirt particles into the housing, which risks jamming or damaging the mechanism.
If you absolutely have to lightly lubricate the area, it is better to apply a tiny amount of oil to a cotton cloth and gently wipe it over the slot. Warning: never do this on white bone handles, as it will stain them, and only do it very rarely on horn handles.
Additionally, you should avoid:
- using tools other than your fingernail to slide the safety button;
- forcing the safety lock during opening;
- attempting to remove or alter the handles without prior experience;
- hammering the safety lock to adjust it.
Never use a hammer to fix the safety lock—it is the quickest way to ruin it.
Other important notes
Occasionally, the knife might arrive damaged from shipping. If this happens, please report the issue to us immediately.
Always be aware of local laws regarding the carrying and transport of automatic knives.
Keep in mind that horn handles can warp or shift slightly if exposed to environments that are too hot or too humid. If this occurs, the safety lock might need to be adjusted.
What to do if you have problems with the safety lock
In case of difficulties or malfunctions:
- use our custom tool following the instructions detailed above;
- contact us for more information or guidance;
- send the stiletto knife to our headquarters for professional repair.
The safety lock is a small but essential component: always treat it with patience, a delicate touch, and never force it.
Remember that every Frank Beltrame knife comes with a 2-year warranty covering mechanism or manufacturing defects; breakages from misuse will incur a repair fee that must be agreed upon.