Shop Visit: Bill Vining

J

John Frankl

Joined
Oct 16, 2001
Messages
1,917
Today I was fortunate to have the opportunity to visit Bill Vining who generously gave me a tour of his shop, answered many questions, provided a good bit of tooling, and essentially got me half way or more through building my first slip joint. I can't say enough about his generosity and his ability as a teacher.

In addition to this, as most of the people who have been around for a long time know, he is one heck of maker. I got to see and handle a number of finished knives (slip joints and liner locks) as well as see and play with some that are still in the works (one was a super slick double action auto).

I have only dealt with forged fix blades up to this point, and it was a great learning experience to see the level of precision, fit, and finish that go into top end folding knives like Bills.

I'm going to do some homework on the knife I took away, and hope to pay him another visit sometime soon (and put in a knife order if I can scrape together the dough:))

Anyway, I just thought I should give credit where credit is due. There are so many great people in the world of knives, and Bill is definitely one of them.
 
John,
Thank you for the kind words. It was an absolute pleasure having you over to my shop and you are welcome to come back at anytime.

Over the years, I have learned that knife makers are a special breed. They are always willing to answer questions and help wherever and whenever they can. When I first started, many makers here and on other foums helped me in multiple ways. It was my time to pay it forward.

John came well prepared. He brought blade samples of what he was working on, asked all the right questions, wrote everything down and took dozens of pictures. All and all, a great student. With his attention to detail, I can see John producing some fabulous folders in the future.

Bill
 
Bill's filework is second to none, and his folders are up there with the best. You are fortunate to spend some time in his shop.

I met Bill at Indian George's hammer-in a few years ago when he did a filework seminar. Very good stuff!!!

Still owes me for 'roadside service'! ;):D
 
I just went to Bill's shop a few weeks ago as well and second that he is an awesome guy and a great maker. I wasn't nearly as good of a student though lol
 
I will be giving you call soon for sure! I ordered quite a bit of supplies, steel, scales, paper, belts, etc etc. I should have one ready in a week or two! Can't wait
 
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