Blade length measurement -- how to tell when it says length closed only?

[MTHall720]

I am still so new to traditionals there are some things I have no clue about. Normally with modern design folders I am used to seeing blade length clearly stated. However, many times I see traditionals showing the length closed only. How do you tell the blade length? Is there a rule of thumb which says if closed length is the only dimension mentioned you just subtract one inch from that figure to know what the blade length will be?

 

[jc57]

Usually 3/4" to 1" shorter than the closed length. However, if you want an exact blade length (for example, to ensure you are in compliance with a law) then you may either have to contact the manufacturer or find a vendor who routinely lists blade lengths in their descriptions.

 

[Planterz]

Usually 3/4" to 1" shorter than the closed length. However, if you want an exact blade length (for example, to ensure you are in compliance with a law) then you may either have to contact the manufacturer or find a vendor who routinely lists blade lengths in their descriptions.

That's what I'm finding on my single blade slipjoints and the main blade on multi-blade ones that don't need crinking or extra space to fit the other blades. If the main blade is crinked, or needs to allow space for other blades (such as a congress), there will be a lot less in the blade-to-handle ratio.

Maryland has no length limit on folding knives, so if that's your worry, then don't worry at all.

If you're wondering about a specific knife or knives, just ask. Someone here probably has the knife and can find a ruler.

 

[TLARbb]

Yes, the only way to find out is from the manufacturer or get someone that has one to measure it for you. I made the following post in the 2013 forum knife thread regarding blade length. Maybe it will help you.

Well, let me say that on my S&M Heritage jack, the blade is 2-7/8" from bolster to tip and the knife is 3-3/4" closed.

This copperhead's blade is 3" from tip to bolster and the knife closed is 3-7/8".

So, I submit that a 3" blade in a 3-3/4" frame will look fine. I don't think it would look out of place in a 4" frame because this knife is 4" closed with a single 2-7/8" blade (again measured from bolster to tip).

My question is "What's the deal?" I understand that the knives I'm showing are not congress jacks. No wonder, because I don't have one. I think I may have been one of the folks mentioning the 3" as I know that is the maximum legal concealed carry in Louisiana and several other states and some foreign countries. It was thrown out for information. Do I own folders with blades longer than 3"? Yes. Would a 3-3/16" or 3-1/4" main blade keep me from buying a forum knife? No way, but it might deter some folks. I'm in no matter what happens. I think a 3-5/8" closed to 3-7/8" closed is a great size and bigger than I usually carry and a 3" blade seems to be appropriate in the knives I already own in that size range.

Ed J

Ed J

 

[MTHall720]

Thanks very much to everyone !

 

[neeman]

The Case 4 1/4" Utility has a shorter blade than the 3 3/4" Canal Streel Trapper
Go figure.........

 

[Obsessed with Edges]

Yes, the only way to find out is from the manufacturer or get someone that has one to measure it for you. (...)



Ed J

^That. Definitely.

There's HUGE variability in relationship between handle length and blade length. No such thing as 'rule of thumb', based on the folding knives I've owned. The only safe bet is that the blades will (almost*) always be shorter than the handle on folding knives.

( * = Excepting some 'folding bowies' and similar large knives, which have a folding handle on what otherwise would be essentially a large fixed blade; the handle only partially covers the full-length blade. )