Materials Included
This is a two-day class where we will forge and finish a friction folder pocket knife using simple forging tools. Drawing out the blade and forming the handle with an emphasis on clear understanding of the process and technique including heat treatment, grinding and sharpening the blade.
Forged friction folders are the simplest forms of a folding knife, very useful and enjoyable to make. There is no lock or mechanism holding the blade open or closed so the lever is one of the focal points of the knife working correctly.The lever is a fascinating part of the design of this project. The forging of it is an exercise in the movement of mass creating a transition between handle and blade.
Another focal point is the pivot action. In order to work correctly the blade must be forged so it sits in the handle evenly in the closed and open position. The forging itself becomes integral to the action of this folding knife.
I’ve been using NYC Subway tokens as washers for the outside of the pivot, and I’m thrilled that CMA was able to locate tokens from Johnstown that we will use to make these special.
