Are spacers stronger than posts?

T. Erdelyi · Jan 22, 2003

I replaced the black plastic spacer,(due to structural integrity failure) with posts, it took 10 mins to make, with some simple equipment, caliper, bench top drillpress/drill index, hacksaw, some files, and some 1/4" round stock. basically I measured and cut the round stock to size, filed to fit and center drilled for a clearance hole.

My question is what's really stronger, posts or solid spacers?

I'm assuming of coarse that both styles are properly fit and made of quality materials.

Sticky · Jan 22, 2003

Im not sure, but would think that the size of the bolts/posts holding them in place would be more important than anything.
I never even gave thought about how strong the back end of the handle of my knife is. Not sure if it even matters back there much.

Jazzman · Jan 22, 2003

I had always thought that a full length spacer added a certain degree of rigidity to a knife. Although, in a really well made knife, it may not make a real difference.
Matt

T. Erdelyi · Jan 23, 2003

Still lookin' for an answer.

Click here to see why I ask.

DaveH · Jan 23, 2003

I don't think anyone can answer this question without specific materials, measurments and a knowledge of mechanical engineeering.

Other than that it's all conjecture.

Sticky · Jan 23, 2003

Right on DaveH,
I would tend to think a spacer made of styrofoam would be weaker than pins made of 440c stainless.

knifenerd · Jan 23, 2003

My gut tells me that a solid spacer made of some metallic substance like SS, Ti, or even Al and precisely machined and anchored by solid SS screws would be stronger then posts, but maybe the real question is, for a folding knife, just how strong does it really need to be??

What are you doing with that knife? Are you violating the conventional "rules" and using it as a prybar? If so, you are courting disaster no matter what kind of back-spacer situation you have.

A folder is still a folder--it's meant to fold.

Peter Atwood · Jan 23, 2003

It all depends. In an average length knife if the ti is over .100 in thickness there is virtually no flex in the center, therefore a spacer will do just fine. For a standard liner lock type knife I would say that the handle overlay and bolster material would have a significant effect on ridgedity.