A question about patents

[InSpectre Gadget]

I was wondering if the cage design for the caged ball lock for the Manix 2 is patented or not. I did some research and looked over the Caged Ball Lock patent held by Louis Glesser, but saw no indication of the cage design itself being patented.

My second question is about approval. That is, were I to have the properly designated membership to sell here on BladeForums, would it be within the realm of possibility for me to obtain permission to sell a metal reproduction of that design to fit the standard size Manix 2 production knife? Is such permission even necessary by law? I don't know, and I'm not willing to risk stepping on anyone's toes. The last thing I want is to stir people up, or else I wouldn't be here asking.

I recently reproduced the design for my personal use, and when I posted pictures of it in the Gallery forum it was received with a suggestion that there might be some demand for such a thing. The thread was closed due to the discussion becoming off topic, however I still had these questions. A reply, possibly containing a link to any patents in question, would be greatly appreciated.

Link to the discussion in the Gallery if you want to see what I'm talking about

I've seen that people reproduce Manix 2 handle scales using different materials all the time with no observed backlash, I just wanted to know if this is the same kind of thing or not before I went ahead and took any further action.


Thanks!

 

[9blades]

You would need a "KnifeMaker / Craftsman / Service Provider" Membership to sell custom parts.

-niner

 

[InSpectre Gadget]

Yeah, I know.

...were I to have the properly designated membership to sell here on BladeForums, would....

This was more of a legality question.

 

[9blades]

Yeah, I know.



This was more of a legality question.

Sorry my bad

 

[RevDevil]

Yeah, I know.



This was more of a legality question.

You really should email or call and speak with the folks in Golden, CO; as it has already been suggested asking in a different section won't get you a speedier answer than calling or emailing Sal G. You may be opening yourself up for potential liability. If your "cage" should malfunction and someone loses a finger or gets a bad enough cut, it will be raining lawyers on you. Not saying it would, but it is something to consider. Some folks can break a bowling ball in a rubber padded room.