Noob questions ???

S

sprokker

Joined
Nov 30, 2003
Messages
58
Hi folks, I've got some ideas for a folder I want to try out. I've never made a folding knife before, or even a fixed blade, but I have access to a good machine shop and I know how to use it.

My plan is to make a prototype in cheap, easy-to-work-with materials, and when I'm happy with the pattern I'll remake it in nice materials. My questions now are what cheap & easy materials to use, and where to get them. :D

Here's what I'm thinking:
  • Liners, pivot, and stop pin: 416 or 303 or 304?
  • blade: 5160 or 10xx?
  • scales: random hardwood

I've found some of the things I'll need -- screws, pins, & washers mostly -- at KnifeKits.com. Any other good supply houses for these kinds of things?

Also, what's a good place to buy sheets of 416 or whatever (0.040" or 0.050" thick, say), and flat stock of some cheap & cheesy blade steel?

Thanks guys!!!
 
Most knife suppliers carry the things you want,including the sheet stock.Go to www.knifehow.com and click "knife suppliers" there are a bunch of choices.There is also info on making folders,books on making folders,and lots of HT info available on that site.
 
By folder do you mean slipjoint or something with a lock?

Have you looked at innards for the type you want to make?

Have you considered starting with a kit? (not that I did, but it'll give you an idea of the aggrevation of assembling a folder)

What of heat treating? DIY or send it to someone.

I'm not trying to discourage you, just want to make sure you've thought this out. Search for info on the total process: here, knifehow, bladesmithforums, knifeforums. Have you read any books? That will give you a good idea of the whole process, you may be able to find some at your local library.

I've made a couple of slipjoints but nothing with a lock. I assume from your post you plan on grinding to shape, someone else will have to give you pointers there, I forge.

There is a link to suppliers on Knifeforums.com (think that's right) that is laid out easier to read than what I've seen on knifehow.
 
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