So I'm curious as to what amounts to a traditional folder. Is there something specific to look for in the design? Does lockback knives count? Do SAKs count? Do they use certain materials as opposed to others? And where does the "gentlemen's folder" fit into the classification?
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Question from someone who doesn't know
- Thread starter Charlie_K
- Start date
Different definition for everybody but for me:
Slipjoint - no locks
2 handed operation - no thumbers or flippers (friction folders maybe)
Usually carbon steel blade with natural handle materials.
SAK - yes (not the thumbers with the blade holes)
Gents may be but not always a traditional- general term for a knife that isn't percieved as a weapon.
There are outliers of course - opinel for instance.
yMMV
Slipjoint - no locks
2 handed operation - no thumbers or flippers (friction folders maybe)
Usually carbon steel blade with natural handle materials.
SAK - yes (not the thumbers with the blade holes)
Gents may be but not always a traditional- general term for a knife that isn't percieved as a weapon.
There are outliers of course - opinel for instance.
yMMV
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welcome to the traditional forum 
. I've found that people on this forum are pretty consistent on the definition, you rarely encounter arguments on it. Lockbacks and SAKs count, a gentleman's folder can exist in modern or traditional form (so be careful )- pocket clips and thumbstuds are not traditional). If you want a more general impression, check out the 'What traditional are you toting today thread', the full gamut of traditional knives is represented there
. I've found that people on this forum are pretty consistent on the definition, you rarely encounter arguments on it. Lockbacks and SAKs count, a gentleman's folder can exist in modern or traditional form (so be careful )- pocket clips and thumbstuds are not traditional). If you want a more general impression, check out the 'What traditional are you toting today thread', the full gamut of traditional knives is represented there 
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Generally most knives made before 1970. Very generally. I only use that date to include the Buck 110. I'm not sure of the SAK dates, but most knives prior to 1970 would qualify I believe. And I'm sure many members can come up with exceptions to this. Celluloid handles date to the 19 teens and Stainless Blades to the 1930's or 40's.
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Howdy,
The immediate rule of thumb Peregrin and I use for folders is, "no pocket clips and no thumb studs or holes for one hand opening."
For fixed blades,"no glass breaker knobs or other modern accoutrements. " We tend to be a bit more lax on fixed blades.
However, the best definition is found under the forum heading.
Forum: Traditional Folders and Fixed Blades
Discussion of classic Hunters, Trappers, Lockbacks, Slipjoints, Skinners and other classic designs
Swiss Army style knives date back a hundred years or so. And the basic lobster from which they derive is a lot older than that. So Swiss Army knives are in.
Pocket tools are new and they are out.
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Welcome Charlie. Thanks for sharing your collection.
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That's a great looking set of knives, Charlie! I think you've got the gist of what is considered traditional for the purposes of this forum.
Frank and Gary are pretty gentle in their admonishments and reminders if you're trying to stay within the boundaries.
Frank and Gary are pretty gentle in their admonishments and reminders if you're trying to stay within the boundaries.