Want to try folders--what kind of lock?

Well it does look somewhat simple, not easy though!
 
Highly recommend liner locks and Bob Terzuola's book on folders. And Ray Roger's http://www.rayrogers.com/ftutorial.htm

Between those two resources I managed to figure out how to make liner locks.

Thing about a liner lock is it's simple, easy to clean and maintain, and easy to operate and tough. Working off shore I really like that the fact that there's no real moving parts other than the blade and is easy to wash crap out.
 
Chris Crawford has some interesting dvd's. I'd check those out.

In terms of popularity, the frame lock and Benchmade Axis probably tie. The Axis is fairly complicated (imo), but BKC has licensed it in the past to a custom maker. It is far and away my personal favorite.

Just random thoughts.
 
Making a quality slip-joint that walks and talks is more difficult than just making a spring for it. My slip-joints are precision and the spring sits flush with the liners when the knife is open, closed and at the half stop. They are harder to make this way but it is worth the extra effort.

Sande5412, lets see some pics of your folders since they are so easy!
 
Slip-joints are a simple design and fairly easy to make a crude sample. But very difficult to make a nice sample, one people are willing to spend money on. Liner locks/frame locks are by far easier to make! I've made hundreds of each and sold them. :cool:
 
We also have different view points here (very different). Guys that make knives for a living and others that do it for a hobby... I can make a crude slip joint in a few hours, but one that I can sell takes a few days. ;)
 
Kevin Cross said:
[B After years of making straight blades, I want to make the jump to folders. I've played with a few kits and now want to do my own. The question is, what type of locking mechanism. It seems like the majority of knives are either back lock, frame lock or liner lock. William Henry makes a lot of button locks and I found a "compression lock" that seems to be part button lock and part liner lock.

Any advice on what type to make? No matter the type, I'm gonna have to destroy steel during the learning curve. If it helps, I have a mill but not a surface grinder.

Thanks for comments and advice,

Kevin
Click to expand...
if you need a pattern let me know
 
Thanks to all for the advice. I have Terzuola's book and have been on Ray Rodger's site looking at his tutorial. Additionally, Chuck provided me notes from a course he taught making liner locks. Thanks Chuck. I'm getting the ideas down and I have started roughing out some templates. I'll keep you informed as the saga continues.

BTW Rick, if you have a pattern you would share, I would appreciate it.

Kevin
 
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