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- May 3, 2012
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Were you thinking of something like a 4" blade, or longer still?Consider making a L or XL version. I would dig a larger one (S35VN for my vote)
Were you thinking of something like a 4" blade, or longer still?Consider making a L or XL version. I would dig a larger one (S35VN for my vote)
I think 4 or maybe 4.25 would be really good. I like big folders but I wouldn't go beyond that. Did you have ideas for handle material?Were you thinking of something like a 4" blade, or longer still?
G10 is the most likely choice.I think 4 or maybe 4.25 would be really good. I like big folders but I wouldn't go beyond that. Did you have ideas for handle material?
This is true, but it does add extra steps to producing in batches. I'm totally open to doing one-offs of whatever steel, but the goal right now is to make a standardized model to keep in stock (more blades of the same kind, the more I can mill/heat treat at once). If they are popular enough, I could see myself doing two steel types for production.You could offer a "custom" with the steel of their choice from your list?
That would might maybe possibly theoretically make "everyone" happy.
What steels are in your sweet spot? What is YOUR favorite?
Personally, I'd go with a steel that the maker is familiar with and can turn into the best product.
A friction folder this size and configuration isn't going to be super hard use, so any of those choices work fine.
Not in a way that is very noticable. S35VN seems a little more harsh on my tooling, but I'm also working on a mill, so the only time the blades touch a belt is during sharpening.Is there a noticeable difference between CPM S35Vn and CPM154 as far as belt life?
Like the title says. I've been developing this for a while, and in the next month or so I'll be making them; first prototypes are done, I'm just trying to narrow down materials for a first batch. I'm looking to keep these as affordable as possible, so that's why I've chosen those particular steels; I want to know what steel people would prefer, hence the poll. GKD seemed like the best place to get opinions from a wide range of users here.
Blade is 3", handle is 4.25". Extended tang "stick" is exposed for one-handed opening. Currently debating whether I should go about making pocket clips or not.
Edited to add; since it's come up a few times now, the handle material will most likely be G10.
Do you have an estimate for thickness of stock and thickness BTE?I can respect that! I actually have a bit of a soft spot for CPM154, I love how easily it takes a razor edge, and how long it keeps that level of sharpness. Conversely, S35VN seems to keep a working sharpness longer, and is a fair amount tougher; this makes it a little harder for me to choose, and is why I have several knives with both. I actually enjoy working with both of them as well.
I would love to see a handle shaped like a Saddlehorn, with a straight back/trailing point.My vote so far is as follows.
Size- roughly the size of a full sized trapper. About 4”ish
Handle material- I love natural micarta. Almost looks like wood so it keeps the traditional look (arguably important with a friction folder) while offering the advantages of the modern material.
Steel- don’t care. Cheap and easy to sharpen to a fine edge is the key here. If I had my druthers, it’d be BD1 but that’s probably not for most. I think D2 if it becomes more available to you. If not, something of the 154 persuasion.
Bottle opener- hell yes.
Blade grind- ffg sheepsfoot would be my preference but I admit that there is likely broader appeal for a clip or drop point.
Blade grind- ffg sheepsfoot would be my preference but I admit that there is likely broader appeal for a clip or drop point.
I am trying to think where the detent ball would be located that would allow for horizontal movement to act as a detent does.Would a light detent for the closed position be too hard to add? That would let you put a tip up pocket clip on it and have a properly sexy and highly utilitarian one handed friction folder. Not something that has much of a presence in the market.