Automatic - have it working but...

SVanderkolff

SVanderkolff

Joined
Oct 31, 2002
Messages
979
Finally have a working automatic. I still need to heat treat and finish but it definetely works. The only question I have is when I open the blade it slams into the stop pin. Feels and sounds terrible. Not much I can do about this one but is there a way to control the force with which it comes to a stop. I still want the speed on opening but a controlled stop would be nice.
Thanks
Steve
 
Depends on what kind of spring.

You could have less tension on a leaf spring, so it just has enough momentum to open.

You could have less tension on a coil too, but the coil will always drive it into the stop pin.
 
You can drill additional holes in the blade for the spring. Make them less than 1/16 apart and you can decide which one gives you the opening you want. Drill 2 more clockwise so the spring is more relaxed.
 
The tension on the pivot can be adjusted to increase or decrease the friction against the washers. This will slow down the blade. Drilling multiple holes for the spring is also a good way to change the blade speed and force. A spring of lesser torque can be used, also ( they come in several strengths).
 
Many auto knife collectors like the thwack of a strong spring.Hardened stop pins are a must.All the advise above is dead on.Do you own or have handled many autos.Each type has their own character.Some of my old stilettos open fairly softly.Some of my newer coil spring ones will jump out of your hand if you dont have a solid grip.I would love to see some pics.Also,congratulations on being nearly finished:thumbup::thumbup:
 
Collectors like the thwack of a strong spring but eventually you are asking for trouble. An auto will get opened more than a regular folder just because it's fun and if the spring is too strong the knife can start to self-destruct.
 
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