- Joined
- Apr 21, 2022
- Messages
- 29
This modification to the collapsing blade design was made with the focus of reducing complexity, hardware count and cost while maintaining the same features and functionality of previous iterations. It is dimensionally the same as Mk11 except for around the upper edges of the handle. Where before the grip was two separate pieces which required a somewhat square shape to allow for a safe minimum grip thickness along upper edges, it is now one piece making a more rounded contour possible.
In the previous version, hardware in the rear of the grip required adjustment upon assembly to allow the knife to open and close properly. The grip has been revised into a snap fit assembly with hardware in the rear being replaced with a block that removes the need for adjustment and slots into the rear of the handle snapping firmly into place.
The Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate used in the handle of previous iterations was strong and capable of a shiny chemically smooth finish but had poor chemical resistance and I noticed that it could be stained by oils or dye. For that reason I decided to print the handle from PETG instead as it has excellent chemical resistance and does not stain. It is also naturally shiny and has the desired balance between toughness and rigidity to make the snap fit assembly work correctly.
Other changes include:
- Rust bluing on steel components instead of cold bluing. Rust bluing is typically used as a rust inhibiting finish on firearms. It's a more wear resistant finish than cold bluing and it doesn't rub off.
- Integration of the assist spring into the handle tang component rather than assembly via welding.
- Joining of the Cover, Pitch adjust, and anti tangent lock spur components at lower front of the handle which required adjustment upon assembly into one component that is pre adjusted to the needed pitch tension and can easily replaced if needed without needing to adjust during assembly.
- Usage of new stainless steel hardware to reduce count of resistance welded/machined components.
Aside from the changes mentioned, the current iteration features the same materials and construction with all hardware being 18-8 stainless steel, and all metallic parts being grade 5 titanium except for the blade components which are 1095 spring temper steel.
The changes described were effective at reducing the complexity of the design and the cost. Where previous iterations increased in price as new features were added as a result of higher complexity and assembly requirements, I am happy to be able to lower the price to reflect the reduced complexity and assembly requirements.
To interested parties: Now that I've successfully made the design changes I can finally start making these available to everyone who has been patiently waiting. Supply is low now but should pick up quickly thanks to the new changes. I've been keeping track of everyone who has expressed interest and will contact you in chronological order.
More pictures of Mk11 Mod1:
Link to Mk11 post for comparison:
My Instagram page:
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