Modifying CRKT Ryan Model 7

E

ErikD

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Dec 5, 2000
Messages
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I love the looks of the Ryan Model 7, and unfortunatly a custom version is very hard(and expensive) to get. I was wondering if it would be possible/worthwile to modify a CRKT version.

I have one, and I like the basic knife but hate the zytel scales. How hard would it be to replace them with micarta scales? To me it looks like the knifeis held together with torx screws, but the stop pin appears to be peened over. I also would like to remove the LAWKS as it requires an extra cutout in the scale, and I don't like the look.

Now for the hard part, I don't have that much expereince or tools. I would prefer to replicate the scales in micarta, so I am guessing I would need to buy a router? Or could the work be done with a jemlers saw and files?

Thanks in advance for any help.


Erik
 
I want to do something pretty much like that, but try to make the scales identical to those on the knife.

Also, how could you polish the blade without removing the Ryan symbol? Thanks again.


Erik
 
I took the bead blast off my CRKT KISS with a scotchbrite pad, and the etch is still very clear. If you plan to mirror finish it, I'd say stay in the very very fine papers (probably 600+ grits) and buffs. Hopefully the mark doesn't disappear. If you don't mind a satin finish, you can polish off the beadblast with a green scotchbrite pad.
 
I high polished mine and removed the thumb stud.You can still see the Ryan stamp on the back.I gonna try to do the handles next:D
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Todd
 
I just took apart the pivot pin, took out the blade(waiting on smaller torx drivers to take off the scales). I decided I will make new scales of black linen micarta(1/8 thickness), trying to copy those on the knife as closely as I can. I will also satin polish the blade with the scotch brite pads.

I have also taken out the LAWKS system because I didn't like the extra cutout in the scale it required. I feel it detracts from the look of the knife, but also requires the scale to be thinned to a point where I am worried it would break under stress. I realize that the liner is thin, and I wouldn't trust it under stress alone. at some point I might replace it with a thicker one, but for now I won't use the knife under to much stress. Once I am done modifying it I will test it to see how much the liner will hold. To me it seems that the liner isn't that much thiner than other more expensive knives.
 
You don't need a router. It would probably do a really bad job on those slots any way as most routers run way to fast for micarta.
As long as you have a good drill ( preferably a drill press) a hack saw and some sandpaper/files you'll be fine.
For the slots, get a drill bit thats the same diameter as the width of the slots, drill a hole clear through the micarta where each slot is supposed to end, then cut back to it with a hacksaw. All thats left is rounding things off and smoothing them out.
The biggest challenge is lining up all the holes for the screws. Do all you drilling while the micarta is flat, and use a prick punch or finishing nail to mark the holes, it will keep the bit from walking on you as yous start each hole.
Have fun. It doesn't sound like you have anything to lose here. You can always put the original scales back on if something goes wrong.
 
Matt, thanks for the tips. I had decided against using the router anyway, as I thought spending the money to fix up a $30 knife wasn't worth it. Unfortunatley I don't have a drill press, but have one of those cheap jigs for a handheld drill. I guess that will work fine as this work isn't extremely precise, and it is better than using the drill freehand.

The last thing I want to do is put the original scales back on. They are just about the only thing I truly didn't like about this knife. They are to thin, and make the knife feel cheap. I ordered the micarta, and it should be here soon. I got enough to get the scales done to my liking.

When I am done I will post some pictures, unfortunatley I don't have a digital camera yet so I will have to wait to process the whole role of film.

Erik
 
The drill with the jig should be OK. I just say drill press as opposed to a hand held drill. The important thing is that all the holes are square and straight.
Wasn't trying to hint that you couldn't do it :D I just said that you COULD always put back on the original scales, meaning theres no real incentive to not try and make the new ones.
 
I just got my Micarta, and also went to Home Depot and bought a Delta 1" belt 5" disc sander. I have started to do some rough shaping, for practice as I am still waiting for the torx to take the scales off. I think that this sander is going to be a big help as the micarta is quite hard and working only with hand tools would take to long.

Erik
 
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