Tag: Handle

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Custom Knife Sheaths

Combative Edge SF7 Tanto

A custom knife sheath is a protective cover for a fixed blade knife that is made to fit the specific knife perfectly. It is typically made of leather or Kydex and is designed to be worn on the belt, but can also be worn on the backpack or other gear. Custom knife sheaths are often made by hand and can be very elaborate, with features such as stitching, tooling, and stamping.

Combative Edge SF7 Tanto Sheath
Combative Edge SF7 Tanto Sheath

There are many benefits to having a custom knife sheath. First, it protects the knife from damage, such as scratches and nicks. Second, it makes it easier to carry the knife, as it provides a secure way to attach it to the body or gear. Third, it can add a personal touch to the knife, making it unique and special to the owner.

If you are considering getting a custom knife sheath, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you need to choose the right material for your needs. Leather is a traditional choice for knife sheaths, but it can be susceptible to moisture damage. Kydex is a more durable material that is less likely to be damaged by water.

Second, you need to decide how you want to carry the knife. If you want to wear it on your belt, you will need to choose a sheath that is designed for belt carry. If you want to carry it on your backpack, you will need to choose a sheath that has a loop or other attachment point for securing it to the pack.

EQUALIZER Fixed Blade Sheath
EQUALIZER Fixed Blade Sheath

Finally, you need to decide on the style of the sheath. There are many different styles of custom knife sheaths available, so you should be able to find one that fits your personality and needs.

Here are some of the most popular styles of custom knife sheaths:

  • Pancake style: This style of sheath is worn horizontally on the belt. It is a good choice for knives that are used for everyday tasks, such as camping and hiking.
  • Belt sheath: This style of sheath is worn vertically on the belt. It is a good choice for knives that are used for heavier tasks, such as hunting and fishing.
  • Neck sheath: This style of sheath is worn around the neck. It is a good choice for knives that need to be accessible quickly, such as self-defense knives.
  • Shoulder sheath: This style of sheath is worn over one shoulder. It is a good choice for long knives, such as machetes and swords.
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Knife Lock Types

HTM DDR Madd Maxx 3 Damascus Dagger With Mammoth Ivory Overlay

Knife locks are mechanisms that secure the blade in the open position, providing stability and safety during use. Different knife lock types offer varying degrees of strength, ease of use, and complexity. Here are some common knife lock types:

  1. Liner Lock:
    • The liner lock is one of the most popular and widely used knife locks. It consists of a thin metal liner inside the handle that, when the knife is opened, moves into position to lock the blade in place. To disengage the lock, the user pushes the liner to the side, allowing the blade to be closed.
  2. Frame Lock:
    • Similar to the liner lock, the frame lock uses a portion of the handle frame itself to lock the blade. When the knife is open, a section of the frame moves behind the blade, preventing it from closing. To unlock, the user pushes the frame aside.
  3. Lockback:
    • The lockback, also known as the spine lock or mid-lock, is a mechanism that features a metal piece on the spine of the handle. It engages with a notch on the tang of the blade, securing it in the open position. To release the lock, the user pushes down on a lever at the rear of the handle.
  4. Axis Lock:
    • The axis lock is a patented design commonly associated with Benchmade knives. It uses a small, spring-loaded bar that runs perpendicular to the blade. When the knife is opened, the bar engages with a notch in the blade, preventing it from closing. To release, the user pulls back on the axis lock.
  5. Compression Lock:
    • The compression lock is found on some Spyderco knives. It involves a small piece of metal that wedges between the blade tang and the handle, securing the blade in place. To release the lock, the user pushes down on the lock, freeing the blade.
  6. Slipjoint:
    • The slipjoint is a non-locking mechanism commonly found in traditional pocket knives. It relies on spring tension to hold the blade open and features a notch in the handle where the blade rests. The user manually holds the blade open while using it, and there is no locking mechanism.
  7. Button Lock:
    • The button lock, also known as plunge lock or plunge button lock, uses a button typically located on the handle to release the blade. Pressing the button disengages the lock, allowing the blade to be closed. It is commonly found in automatic or assisted-opening knives.
  8. Ball Bearing Lock:
    • The ball bearing lock is a variant of the axis lock and features a ball bearing that moves into a depression in the blade tang when the knife is open. This lock provides a smooth operation and is known for its strength and reliability.
  9. Ring Lock:
    • The ring lock, often associated with the CRKT M16 series, involves a ring that the user can rotate to lock or unlock the blade. When the ring is in the locked position, it engages with the tang of the blade, preventing it from closing.

These are just a few examples of the many knife lock types available. Each has its advantages and considerations, and the choice often depends on user preferences, the intended use of the knife, and design aesthetics.