Explain the idea of frame tang

D

Dr Heelhook

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Jul 24, 2007
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A hidden tang, slot double guard knife that's made in a way that makes it look like it's full tang, even though it isn't...

What is the reasoning behind this knife handle design? Are there a lot of practical advantages to it compared to a regular one piece hidden tang handle, or is it made mainly for esthetic reasons?
 
I had the same question of Mr Bruce Bump when he did a WIP of a frame handled knife. He gave the same answer as Hengelo - hidden tang style guard and especially bragging rights (show off knifemaking skills)
 
i consider it a show of craftsmanship. it does not do anything different than a full tang while using the knife but it is more impressive.
 
The biggest reason is the guard can be installed, then the frame slid up to it. Otherwise, the guard would not pass over a full tang.

Some handle styles, like inlay work and multiple metal types, are far better when done as a frame handle.
 
Stacy’s got the key of it.

I think the most influential reason for me to be tempted to try making one is the ability to have the spine if the handle me made out of something different than anything else on the knife, while still being able to have a pressed on guard.

Like some crazy engraved and inlayed antler and bone or antler, while at the same time having a pressed on guard and some sort of beautiful wood handle scales...
 
Do you mean like this frame handle style?
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It is a good way to solve a few problems, some have been mentioned already. I like the idea of being able to use more fragile burl woods while still using a stronger straight grain wood for a frame. Also eliminates problems associated with rust on full tang handles with carbon steel blades. It can also make it easier for certain hidden tang shapes that would otherwise need very long/impractical broaches.
 
Since that is one of mine I guess I should try and answer your question. Firstly frame tangs are not new and have been around for centuries as far as I can tell.

As already stated the method allows you to build a knife with a full tang look but incorporate features that would otherwise be impossible. In the knife above for example there would be no other way to slide the guard and ferrule/spacer over the rest of the handle if it was actually a full tang knife.

Similarly it allows you to use materials that are either more readily available as scales or more cost effective as scales, mother of pearl, bone, ivory, or mammoth for example.

They are a lot more work than a hidden tang but well worth the effort. Keeping track of all the elements and making sure everything flows correctly is an excellent learning curve.
 
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Del Raso Knives said:
Since that is one of mine I guess I should try and answer your question. Firstly frame tangs are not new and have been around for centuries as far as I can tell.

As already stated the method allows you to build a knife with a full tang look but incorporate features that would otherwise be impossible. In the knife above for example there would be no other way to slide the guard and ferrule/spacer over the rest of the handle if it was actually a full tang knife.

Similarly it allows you to use materials that are either more readily available as scales or more cost effective as scales, mother of pearl, bone, ivory, or mammoth for example.

They are a lot more work than a hidden tang but well worth the effort. Keeping track of all the elements and making sure everything flows correctly is an excellent learning curve.
Click to expand...
That's what I was assuming. Fantastic knife by the way.
 
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