Everyone understands that there is no actual "father" of inanimate objects. But, the notion always persists that credit can be given to someone for the design ideas that create a genre.
The Tactical folding knife - its a complicated thing to define with precision. But most people would include, at a minimum, these characteristics:
1.) One hand opener;
2.) Blade locks open;
3.) Pocket clip;
4.) Solidly built, especially the pivot and lock; and,
5.) Blade design that can be used offensively.
[There are plenty of other things we frequently associate with this type of knife - bead blasted titanium, micarta/G-10, premium stainless steels to name a few. But trying to keep it basic]
Given the above description, I can only think of two men who have legitimate claim to the title of originators (ie, 'fathers') of this category of knives that now spans literally hundreds of makers' work: Bob Terzuola and Sal Glesser.
Are there any others who should share in the title?
The Tactical folding knife - its a complicated thing to define with precision. But most people would include, at a minimum, these characteristics:
1.) One hand opener;
2.) Blade locks open;
3.) Pocket clip;
4.) Solidly built, especially the pivot and lock; and,
5.) Blade design that can be used offensively.
[There are plenty of other things we frequently associate with this type of knife - bead blasted titanium, micarta/G-10, premium stainless steels to name a few. But trying to keep it basic]
Given the above description, I can only think of two men who have legitimate claim to the title of originators (ie, 'fathers') of this category of knives that now spans literally hundreds of makers' work: Bob Terzuola and Sal Glesser.
Are there any others who should share in the title?
