looking for my first custom folder

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wyatt10013

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Jul 16, 2016
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My collection has reached the point that I'm interested in customs. I recently bought my first custom fixed blade (a JD Van Deventer neck knife) and I want to eventually get a custom folder. Since I'm new to the whole custom scene I was wondering if anyone had suggestions as to model I can look into. The only catch being I'm on a tight budget so I have a $300 hard limit. Thank you
 
The first thing to think about is the type of folder -- traditional, art, or tactical. One good place to start is to look at sites that may have some folders for sale either individuals or dealers but don't forget there are many available right here in the Exchange section by makers and by forumites. Just don't expect an awful lot from the limit you have made but it is worthwhile looking around. Then the question is, how well do you know the maker of the knife or the person with whom you are planning to make the purchase from? Are you able to see good photos of the piece or maybe able to see the actual knife. With more moving parts to a folder, it is more difficult to choose a folder from a photo particularly if you are not familiar with the maker's work which can normally only be done by actually handling the knife. If you have handled knives made by that maker then you will have a much better idea as to the fit, finish etch of the product you expect to add to your collection.

Best of luck and have fun with this new avenue in your collecting of custom knives.
 
Thank you for the advice. To be honest I'm not expecting to get something for nothing I know the main problem for me is my budget. I will keep on the lookout though.
 
I agree with Murray's comments. When you find a folder that you like, contact the maker and just ask some questions. Establishing that initial contact can go a long way towards a good working relationship for both of you.

Your budget will restrict you fairly significantly. I don't mean to speak in regards to your personal finances, but if possible, you might consider saving a few bucks here and there when you can to supplement your budget. Most makers of quality folders are likely to have at least a little bit of a backlog anyway. This would buy you some time to work with a maker, hash out some details and save some more money. Having a larger budget will definitely open up your options.

That said, there are likely a few decent folders out there in your price range. They just might be fewer and farther between.

The type of folder you are interested in and the materials will play a role in the price of the knife too. If you're not sure what you want there yet, it's all the more reason to look around and decide on what you might be interested in.
 
+1 on saving up a couple hundred more, you'll have a lot more variety to chose from and will most likely end up with something better
that said, if you're savvy and study up, you might end up finding something amazing in the classifieds here for a ridiculously low price
I picked up an unused Carson M16 for under 400 bucks here awhile ago, which is probably much better made than many folders you see around that go for twice as much
 
+2 on saving up another couple hundred, as well as thinking about WHAT kind of folder you want.
 
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