Emerson knives are not designed to have “YouTuber actions” since they are tools and not pocket jewelry. Some are tighter than others depending on their age and whether or not they have the dual detent. Coated blades also need break in so the detent ball(s) can wear a track in the coating. The only way they truly smooth out is by honest use and many openings and closings.
The factory lube is more to protect the pivot area and interact with the nylatron washers than to provide less friction. If you feel the need to change the lube I’ve found grease is better than oil.
My personal method is to not disassemble the knife and keep the factory lube in as long as possible. Once the knife gets dirty enough to need a thorough cleaning I’ll disassemble, clean with Dawn soap, and reassemble with Chris Reeve flourinated grease. It’s viscous enough to stay in the pivot area and provides good friction reduction.