Intent to modify SAK...comments?

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Steelwolf

Joined
Jul 19, 1999
Messages
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Hi fellow knife-knuts, I have this intent to modify my SAK. Blame it all on those damned threads about "If you could have one folder..." Well, I realised that my SAK has almost everything I want of it to make it my daily carry folder for that "just in case" situation. It's one of those locking types with a x-head screwdriver where the cork-screw usually is (any idea what its name is?). Slim enough to carry unobstrusively, and with enough blade and "extras" to do the job.

The only trouble I've found with it is that it tends to slip and slide around in my trouser pocket. I bought a sheath for it, but don't quite like the way it rides. Besides, there are some situations when it's just not kosher to sport a sheath on your belt. So I was thinking of a clip for low pocket carry. The best clip I can find for the job would be the metal Spyderco clips attached to the plastic scales just to the side of the tweezers.

Does anybody know where I can get just the clip? (I wouldn't mind getting the whole knife, but I don't think cannabalising it would be such a bright idea, since I would then be in want of yet another clip
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And would the idea work, i.e. would the plastic scales be strong enough to withstand the stresses involved, would the plastic crack and give way and allow the attaching screws to pop out?

And does has anybody successfully made such a modification or have another similar modification idea that works (or looks like might work)?
 
William Henry has started selling a sheath with a pocket clip for their clipless knives. Something along the same line might work with a SAK and you wouldn't risk cracking the scales.
 
JDS, Where can I go to find examples of this? I was thinking of getting some kydex and molding a sort of pocket "holster" or sheath for it, but first there is the problem of finding the kydex, then information on how to form it properly. Then in use, I would have to draw the knife then snap it out of the kydex holder before I can open the blade. Too many steps.

What I would really love would be the SOG auto-clip, but I doubt if that can be purchased separate from the blade and attached on to the SAK.
 
Howdy, Steelwolf

I suggest that you pre-drill the holes for the screws, to prevent cracking. Make sure that the screws are attached not only to the plastic, but all the way through the metal liners.

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Tea drinker and hellraiser from Northern Sweden, above the arctic circle.

 
I think the model you have described is the Adventurer. Looking at mine, I see the scale on the side with the lock is just a bit thicker. You might use that thicker side to mount the clip. On my knife, that is the toothpick side, not the tweezer side. Clips are available, can't think where just now, but I have seen them advertised.

The handle material used on the lockblades seems a bit tougher than on most SAKs. (Is it Zytel?) I bet it would give you enough strength to hold the clip.

Plenty of folks have replaced the red scales with fancier stuff, I gather they just epoxy the new material on. Perhaps you could find someone who has done that, get them to make one up with mycarta or something similar.

I have also heard of people stitching a "sheath" into their Levi's pocket, to hold a knife. I can't see that myself, I carry different sized knives too often.

I have clipped my Adventurer to my belt loop with a carabiner, and it will reach down to ride in my back pocket. Only works with some pants. I have substituted a larger split ring (get them at bait/ fishing stores) to facilitate using a 'biner.

Let me know how it works out, I have an extra knife here, wouldn't mind having a customized version. They are great knives, I've been using mine for a few years now, I love it.



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"The rules; be yourself, be pleasant, play hard and have no regrets."
--Jimmy Buffett, 1995

 
Howdy Cousin, I don't think attaching screws to the liner would be such a good idea as the liners look a little bit thin to me.

DanV, thanks for the name. And you're right. Now that I take a closer look, I notice that the scales are thicker on the toothpick side. If you remember where you saw the clips advertised, please let me know.

Frank Quan, Thanks for the offer. You've got mail.
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Try soldering a small threaded plate to the liner and inlet that scale to match, drill through the scale and screw clip to plate as you epoxy scales back on. You can make it work and look OK.

Jake
 
And while you're at it, have Jake make you some moose-stag handles for the thing!

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Brandon

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"You should never never doubt what nobody is sure about..."
 
An alternative to a clip on the knife would be a short fob. Knife on one end and a small clip on the other. The knife would hang inside your pocket.

Chi
 
Steelwolf
You can order the Spyderco clips from Knives-Plus for $5.97 that includes srews or nuts depending which model clip you get. I think the one with three small screws might work. Knives-Plus 1-800-687-6202 9-6pm CST.
That price was in their X-Mas catalog.

I think the knife you have is the Trail Master. They have it for $21.97 with black handle. I just got one this week from SMKW. I like it too but I think it is a little thick for everyday pocket carry. It does feel heavy duty for a SAK. My smaller 3 1/2" SAK will remain for daily carry along with Spyderco Endura. I wish SAK made a 31/2" locking blade model.

Let us know if the clip works and how you like it.
 
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