making folders: what more tools do i need?

M

markmarkmark

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Jan 26, 2002
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thought i'd venture into the arena of making slipjoint folders...i've got all the usual stuff for making fixed blades: forge, grinders, drill press, etc. as well as a few extras like a mini-mill and lathe...what additional machinery do i need specifically for folders?

i assume a surface grinder will be necessary for ensuring flatness of blades, etc. what kind? what about for cutting out back springs and such? i assume i can get by with grinding and filing, but a reasonably priced power tool might be nice...some sort of small metal-cutting scroll saw???

specific recommendations for not-horribly-expensive stuff would be much appreciated...

thanks in advance...
 
What you don't have, you could always use hand tools like they did in the old days.
 
cotdt said:
What you don't have, you could always use hand tools like they did in the old days.
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i thought it might be a good excuse to buy some more tools...until i checked the price of surface grinders! i think we'll pass on that for now...

i tend toward the unfinished hammer-forged look with my fixed blades so i've never really been too concerned with perfect flatness - but that won't fly with a folder, i imagine...what are my cheaper options here?
 
markmarkmark said:
i tend toward the unfinished hammer-forged look with my fixed blades so i've never really been too concerned with perfect flatness - but that won't fly with a folder, i imagine...what are my cheaper options here?
Click to expand...

A file and DMT 8" Coarse diamond stone is what I used to make my paring knife. I will buy some power tools some day but hand tools DO do the job.
 
The smallest Grizzly surface grinder is a good one, Harbor Freight has one but I don't care for their stuff. You could also start with precision ground stock and not need a SG.

I used to grind my stock down on the belt grinder for folders. Not too fun but will work.
 
markmarkmark said:
thought i'd venture into the arena of making slipjoint folders...i've got all the usual stuff for making fixed blades: forge, grinders, drill press, etc. as well as a few extras like a mini-mill and lathe...what additional machinery do i need specifically for folders?

i assume a surface grinder will be necessary for ensuring flatness of blades, etc. what kind? what about for cutting out back springs and such? i assume i can get by with grinding and filing, but a reasonably priced power tool might be nice...some sort of small metal-cutting scroll saw???

specific recommendations for not-horribly-expensive stuff would be much appreciated...

thanks in advance...
Click to expand...

I use my mini mill as a surface grinder for billets and folders for a long time.

http://www.jmoyerknives.com/surfacegrinding.html
 
markmarkmark said:
thought i'd venture into the arena of making slipjoint folders...i've got all the usual stuff for making fixed blades: forge, grinders, drill press, etc. as well as a few extras like a mini-mill and lathe...what additional machinery do i need specifically for folders?

i assume a surface grinder will be necessary for ensuring flatness of blades, etc. what kind? what about for cutting out back springs and such? i assume i can get by with grinding and filing, but a reasonably priced power tool might be nice...some sort of small metal-cutting scroll saw???

specific recommendations for not-horribly-expensive stuff would be much appreciated...

thanks in advance...
Click to expand...

You do want the blade straight, but the other pieces will need to be flat, straight to join together. The scales - liners - bolsters - back spring.
I have made over 500 slip joints now and all I use is a belt sander.
And that is probably all I will ever use? - :)
You want to learn to grind well and to use a file well.

Good luck,

Todd
 
silver_pilate said:
That's amazing, Todd. I can attest to the incredible fit and finish of your work.

--nathan
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What so amazing, I tell guys over and over learn how to grind if ya want to make knives.
When I turn my grinder on, it's turning full blast - no variable speed here.........:D:thumbup:
No arm rest - no jigs, step up there and pinch the bolster on a slip joint you just made and don't screw it up? :eek:
It all comes from practice and skill from doing it over and over and over......:thumbup::)

Todd
 
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