Looking for serious feed back.........

Todd Davison Group 010.jpg Just a few from Todd D. I posted the same comment twice, so I edited this post with a group shot.

Todd L.
 
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I am an experienced custom slipjoint collector. I have admired your knives for some time but do not own any. Your execution is flawless from what I have seen. But since you have asked what a collector might want to see:

1. Something other than wood scales. They are fine for a using knife but unless you are trying to sell to Europeans most collectors do not want them. Their resale value is unspectacular.

2. Multiblades and I don't mean multiblade jack knives. Their are literally dozens of slipjoint makers out there competently making single blade folders. Multiblades are where it is at. Especially those multiblades with opposing blades such as stockmans, whittlers, congress, etc.

This is not to discourage you. Your really do make nice clean knives. But there is a limit as to how many single blade slipjoints that most collectors want in there collection
T.A.DAVISON said:
Here are a couple slip joints done.

These are true customs - why? Cause I did them from scratch. There is NOT another two knives in the world just like them? ( I did NOT use a pattern)
They are one of a kinds.....

Hollow Ground - free hand / on 14'' wheel.
I do my own heat treat - have done it for a very long time. (Kim Breed tested one a long time ago, said it was bad to the bone! Write up was in Blade Mag.)
I do a cryogenic quench on all blades.
The name is stamped in by hand / NOT etched.
Bolsters / stainless - I solder them on / they are not integral, glued on or spot welded. (you can NOT see the seam lines at all)
NO washers or pivot bushings - made like Reese Bose does his.
Shield - double pinned clear through the shield & liner. (NOT glued in or spot welded pins to the back of shield.)
There are no gaps. Spring is flush in all positions. (Most all my knives have half stops.)
There is no blade play - up or down or side ways. And the walk & talk is smooth. (The knife feathers perfect.)
Blade is centered perfectly when closed - and it goes clear to the end of the trough. (Looks like it hits the end, but does NOT)
You can NOT see the pivot pin.
Fit and finish is very, very clean......
Scales are always book matched.....

So I'm looking for feed back from you expert collectors....... What else can I do to make these knives perfect for you?

Seriously! Thanks in advance.

Todd Davison


#863 - Black Ash Burl - 4'' Closed.
#865 - Iron Wood - 4'' Closed.
Both knives are sold going to Alaska - enjoy the new knives Andy.

865AA.jpg


865B.jpg
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Todd,
Good question as it looks like you're in this biz for the long haul. I too have watched your folders for years and have enjoyed their progression. As more of an observer to slip joints than a maker of them I may not have enough authority to tell you what needs improvement if anything. I have only made 37 compared to your nearing 900 however I bet I've carried one longer than you have. I've torn the pockets out of more pairs of jeans than you from pocket knives too I bet so I'm willing to stick my neck out and tell you I'd like to see a sunken spine on your folders. (run and duck for cover)
 
All I can say is WOW!! I've admired your work since the first time I came across you. Your work is truly a goal to which the rest of us should aspire!
 
Todd- you and me have been in this forum for about the same amount of time, and I've been an admirer of the knives you make and the character you show from the outset.
I don't own any custom slipjoints, but I got a bunch of older production ones and I really like them. The ones I like the most have multiple blades, and I'd say my favourite design is the split back whittler.
Anyway, it's great to see you keepin on keepin on!
 
As someone from the outside looking in, I do find some of the predominant preferences in the slipjoint field kind of baffling. I have heard numerous times that wood isn't "appropriate" for a slipjoint - and it makes me scratch my head in puzzlement. Particularly when some (to my eye) fairly hideous-looking jigged bone seems to be praised as a superior selection.

I similarly don't get the appeal of multi-blades - particularly when it gets to be more than two. In the first place, the largest blade on a slipjoint is about the smallest blade I would find useful. In the second place, I find the multi-blades less comfortable to hold and use, because you're always gripping the exposed spines of the not-in-use blades. I understand that they are more difficult to make and thus display a high degree of skill by the maker. But on a practical level, they strike me as an example of complexity for complexity's sake - which strikes a dischordant note for me in what is the most practical of knives. They add bulk and weight and cost and don't offer greatly enhanced performance or improved aesthetics.

That said - you certainly should take into account the views of those who both buy and make a lot of slipjoints. That certainly isn't me. I own / have owned but a handful. All single blades with wood, ivory or pearl scales. An attractive design, super-clean fitment, smooth action and beautiful materials are all it takes to satisfy me. I'd certainly happily own one of yours, Todd.

Roger
 
Bruce, I made a few hundred knives with out the PET (Protruding Edge Thing - as Coop calls it. - Can't remember when I changed? But I did start with the sunken joint.....:rolleyes:
Didn't really like how the tang didn't come clear across the width of the bolster when open.

I appreciate all the comments - Thanks!




Not a lot of wood in there......?:D:thumbup:
Nice collection TL - :thumbup:

TA

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T.A.DAVISON said:
May I ask why you would want integral bolsters?

I ordered the steel a couple weeks ago, so working on that.
Click to expand...

Great to hear you have ordered some other types of steel. I feel integral bolsters look better, and offer a bit more strength. You may also want to consider that wood scales could also an issue for someone wanting to EDC one of your knives. I carry keys and flashlights, so they would wreak havoc on wood scales. Antler and bone would be much more durable in my front pocket.
 
Todd, you have single blade folders dialed in, and you have had for some years now. They are the Perfect EDC knife for those who like, or love, Traditional style folders. And they are always so sharp that whatever is being cut seems to part almost before the blade gets there. They are also beautiful and so many who buyour knives prefer to collect, rather than use them.
But, if you truly want your knives to appeal to serious Traditional collectors you have to be willing to challenge yourself and some of your ideas.
You dislike knives made from "patterns". But Traditional collectors love the old Traditional patterns. The top examples are the Sheffield made folders from about 1830 to WW I . Among them are the best folders ever made, including today, including by you, or Tony Bose, or any other current or past custom knifemaker. They were made from patterns. Wonderful patterns that evolved over time to Perfection. Perfection in proportion, perfection in flow, in ergonomics, in fit and in their beauty.
When a knifemaker reproduces a vintage pattern it is not necessarily a copy, exact in every detail. The custom knifemaker's own style and personality get into the knife. This is why if say Ken Erickson and Joel Chamblin both make a knife based on the same Jos. Rodgers Wharncliffe Whittler, the knives will not be the same other than in the very high level of workmanship. I bet if this happened and you showed me both knives (markings hidden), i could tell you who made which, because i 'get' the specific individuality that each of these knifemakers put into their work.
Collectors buy a custom knife because they like the pattern and they like the way that specific knifemaker puts his own unique style or 'energy' into every knife he makes.
If you are content with making top-notch single blade folders then continue. They always sell immediately and the buyers are thrilled to receive such a fine knife. But i sense from your OP that you feel a bit 'stuck' or restless, not fully content with doing what you have already mastered.
My suggestion is that you investigate and study the wonderful vintage Sheffield and American (late 1800's - WW II) Traditional multiblade patterns and undertake the challenge of reproducing some of these. They will be unique, for they will have your style, your 'energy' in them, that so many of us already appreciate and love in your single blade folders.
This would open up to you a much larger group of collectors wanting and appreciating your work and your obvious talent.
roland
 
Todd you know I'm a huge fan of your work, and I don't think there is a single thing you need to change in regards to your slipjoints. Each one that I've owned has FAR surpassed my expectations and each is a "prize piece" in my collection. With that being said, if you're looking to change things up, I agree 100% with Roland. I know patterns aren't your "thing", but I think their popularity would be staggering :thumbup: But hey man, what you're doing now works quite well so I don't think you need to switch it up unless you want to.


BTW, dibs on the first Lanny's Clip! ;)

Nathan
 
Todd even though I've not handled your knives I would very much bet I know how they would feel.
I'm certainly not any sort of collector and have my own ideas about using, and "hard use slipjoints.
Having made both soldered and integral slipjoints for me its easier to make an integral than it is
soldered bolsters and (for me) a cleaner overall look with the soldered bolsters. To me your knives are
exactly what they should be- a chunk of Todd heart and soul. Pursue your dreams Todd.
Ken.
 
In my opinion I would like to see some bolster treatment- lined/grooved, pinched, and perhaps some long pulls. I'm not a fan of the multicolored look of the knife in your avatar, to me seems almost a childish look. I like your use of wood, and don't understand why people think wood is unsuitable in a working knife- it is a material that has been used for ages, and I've never had a problem with wood handled users. I wouldn't concern yourself too much with secondary market, as

I'm often attracted to features that others are not, so feel free to take my words with as much salt as you wish, I know I am in the minority with my opinions of your avatar knife. Stay true to what YOU want, as I have seen that your market is strong from what I see on this forum. One day I hope to own one of your knives, especially if it is a wharncliffe with secondary short Spey, or punch! (see, I told you I have odd choices).
 
Thank you all for the advice, I really do appreciate it.

Gives me a lot to think about.:thumbup::cool:

Todd
 
T.A.-- Not a slipjoint fan at all, but your work is always fantastic. The way the scales look like they are a part of the metal, amazing finishing work!!
 
Hmmm.. I think we'd really have to have and use your knives to give you the most accurate feedback possible. Maybe a few "giveaways" would help us better assess the functionality and overall design :D? LOL, I've never had the pleasure of owning one of your slippies Todd, but your folders are probably the only ones I've ever continued clicking on and admiring even after they've sold. The price is a bit steep for me, but one day I'll have my T.A. Davidson swayback..
 
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