My 7th folder-1st framelock

[Matt Shade]

This quickly became my new EDC I didn't polish it up too much, but that was just as well since I've put it to work quite a few times now.

Specs:
.125" 440C blade, frame, and backspacer
3/16" pivot (from texas knifemakers supply)
3/16" stop pin
Large pocket clip (also texas knifemakers)
3- 1/8" brass pins through the back spacer holding frame together

I wanted it tough, so both sides of the frame were heat treated and bouble tempered.

Blade was quenched 3 times (in oil, heated with torch) then tempered 3 times at 385 degrees in kitchen oven. Had 12 hours in freezer after first cycle also.


Framelocks are quite a bit more work than linerlocks when your using a dremel! I'll be doing more of them though

What do ya think?

Edited to add:blade is 3.75" long, 4.75" closed

 

[Matt Shade]

Other side

 

[Matt Shade]

Spine

 

[Matt Shade]

Lockup:
I didn't get it quite as good as I'd like. It snaps into place, and passes the spine wack test but its not a flawless fit. Only the bottom 1/3 of the bar engages the tang

 

[Matt Shade]

Rear Spacer:

 

[heatride]

Matt if you ever get some equipment to work with you are going to be something else. No way would I try to build a folder with the limited equipment you use.Nice Job !

 

[Clyde O'Dell]

Great looking folder. Clyde O'Dell(Coach)

 

[rlinger]

Matt, Great work especially with limited equipment. That just proves you have real talent and later when you're all tooled up doing it the hard way now will really pay off for you.

RL

 

[Matt Shade]

Thanks alot everybody


As far as getting more equipment, I don't know what I would do. I can see it being a very hard transition (I still want to make it though) I just know there will be a lot of forehead slapping when I look up from my vice, dremel in hand, to wipe the sweat away....and remember the new mill sitting in the corner DOH!

Right now, I consider doing it all this way part of the fun. I've always enjoyed using hand tools (why else would I make knives? ) as long as I can do a passable job with them and be semi productive.

I really do want to eventually get all the proper machine tools though. I don't know that its an easier way so much as it requires different skills. And there are alot of new possibilities it offers.