Crayola,
No problem!! Let me tell ya....
Over the past year, with MUCH help from my friends here at the forums, I'm busier with knives than I EVER expected to be.
http://www.bladeforums.com/ubb/Forum44/HTML/000090.html
In order to keep going in the direction that I would like (folders), decisions and changes HAD to be made. In order to create shop time, several of my more time consuming fixed blade models HAD to be put on "hold". These include the American Ninja and LiteWave.
Both knives have lots of holes in the tangs AND in the blade. Most of the American Ninjas that have solid handle material, also have drilled AND tapered tangs. The only way for me to make these models cost effectively is in groups, up to and including heat treat. After that, I would finish them one or two at a time. In order to keep my delivery schedule for other customs on track AND gear up for folders.....I decided not to tie up a week or two prepping another group of these two models.
I WILL make at least a dozen, D2, American Ninjas early next year...PROMISE!!!
Since the around the first of the year, I've been aquiring new equipment in order to properly produce folders. I'm making ALL the components including the pivots, only frame screws are purchased! As a machinist, I didn't even want to consider folders until I had a milling machine AND a lathe!! Getting these in place and running has caused some temporary electrical and SPACE problems in my shop!! For about two months, my big drill press was disconnected, so I couldn't drill American Ninja blanks if I wanted too
Finally, everything is now in place and running. Folders are still in the prototype stage but I'm spending time with them everyday, in between my fixed blade orders. It will still be a month or so before I post pictures of them and deliver the first ones. Right now I have 3 designs in various stages of completion. One is based on my Medium Tactical.
Folders, folders, folders..... As always, I'm VERY open to suggestions, ideas, thoughts and DEMANDS from the forum members
I should probably take this to a separate post!! What would ya'all like to see?? So far my designs are rather heavy duty, rugged looking things, not ARTSY
That may come later! How about a Mega Folder based on the American Ninja Blade???
Neil
PS: Thanks Paul and Al, You guys are are a big part of why I enjoy knifemaking!!
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Talonite......Stellite
Hand Made Knives..High Tech Materials
blackwoodknives.com
[This message has been edited by Dr.Lathe (edited 05-19-2001).]
[This message has been edited by Dr.Lathe (edited 05-19-2001).]
