If you’re looking for a way to make something that will last you a long time and be useful in a variety of situations, you should consider making your own folding knife. They can be a lot of fun to make, and they can also be a great way to learn a new skill.
There are many different types of folding knives, and you’ll need to decide which one is best for you before starting the project. Some are easier to make than others, so you’ll want to choose the type that is most suitable for you.
The first step in making a folding knife is to design the blade. There are several ways to do this, and you can use graph paper to get a good idea of the size and shape you want your knife to have. Once you have your design, you can begin to think about how to construct the blade and handle.
Next, you’ll need to obtain the materials needed for your project. Carbon steel is a common choice for knifemakers, but you can use other metals too. It’s important to get the right kind of steel, though, as different kinds have different strengths and weaknesses.
Once you have the right kind of steel, you can start the construction process. You’ll need a blade blank, a handle, and a few other pieces of metal to put it together.
Luckily, there are plenty of resources available online to help you make your own knife from scratch. Some of these tutorials are aimed at people who already have some experience in knifemaking, but others are more beginner-friendly and allow anyone to follow along.
There are plenty of videos to choose from, too. You can watch a knifemaker at work or you can take a look at some of the many designs that have been made over the years. Regardless of whether you’re an experienced knifemaker or a complete beginner, these videos are sure to inspire you to get started on your own project.
How to Make a Liner Lock Knife
The liner lock is a popular folding knife design that allows you to adjust the blade to your liking. A detent in the lock holds the blade open when closed, and a spring inside the handle keeps the blade from going too far when the lock is activated.
To make a liner lock knife, you’ll need to cut the tang at an angle that allows you to adjust the lock as it wears. This is a critical part of the design, so don’t skimp on it.
You can use a file to grind down the edge of the blade, but a sander is often better. A sander has a reversible disc that you can use to save a lot of time sanding by hand.
You can also use a sander to get the handle scales and any other parts of the knife looking nice. This can be done quickly and efficiently, especially if you have a sander that can be set to a low speed.