Friction folders?

Ruso said:
Opinel #8 has a decent lock. Very basic and simple but it is still a lock. It is not a friction folder.
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It is a friction folder. :)
There is no backspring to hold the blade open or closed.
The lock is nothing but a ring, which was added to the number 6 and larger in 1955. Prior to that, none of the Opinel had a lock.
The lock must be manually engaged or applied, you can (and many do) use the knife without using the lock.
Also, the lock can be removed, if so desired, without damaging the knife or having to completely dissassemble it.
:)
 
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I'm a fan of friction folders for sure. They're a fun old skool diversion from all the modern titanium framelock silliness. I like to say that if you're relying on a lock for safety then you're either using the knife incorrectly or you should be using a different tool altogether. Svord also makes a "micro" with brass or copper handles. Very small and light, it's become my main "lounging around the house" knife.
 
I think the fact that the Opinel locking mechanism is manually activated is what differs it from all other locking knives and allows it to be counted as a friction folder. I do not currently have any but I do love the look and feel of those I have handled I have been looking at the Fox Knives one someone else mentioned earlier in the wood handles.
 
Friction folders can have a lock. What makes them a friction folder is that they rely on friction between the blade and handle to keep them closed and open, with or without a lock, rather than a mechanical means, such as a back spring or detent ball.
 
braillediver said:
Some Michael Morris friction folders come up on the For Sale Forums every so often. I've had some of his small fixed blades and they were really nice. If I see a friction folder of his with the right handle material I'll grab it.

http://www.michaelmorrisknives.com/shop/friction-folders/
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I have a few of his fixed blades and they are great but I REALLY love my FF. It is very well made and I love the bottle opener. It took a while to get it but it was worth the wait.
 
Detex said:
I have a few of his fixed blades and they are great but I REALLY love my FF. It is very well made and I love the bottle opener. It took a while to get it but it was worth the wait.
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Damn, now I need to find out if the books are open and what the lead time is...
 
cheesemaster said:
I'll second the recommendation on Michael Morris. Mine took about six months but it's perfect.
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found a pic:
Bf93S03.jpg
 
This is a classic friction folder: A Resolza Pattadessa from Sardinia, Italy, hand crafted by G. Masala. Mufflon horn handle and Carbon steel myrtle leaf shaped blade No lock.
1qHQtyF.jpg
 
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