How to make a Slipjoint Knife

Introduction

Let me first say that I am not a master at slipjoint construction. I have made a few dozen in the last few years and I find them to be a lot of fun to make. Some people may find that statement rather crazy as I have heard many people say that slipjoints make them pull their hair out. I simply find them a challenge to make. There are dozens and dozens of traditional slipjoint styles that you can choose from or you can design your own style of slipjoint. Buyers and collectors love to see the "out of the box" styles that are being custom made today. Some of the custom slipjoint makers such as Tony Bose, Bill Ruple and several others are making exquisite examples of traditional and non-traditional patterns. I can only aspire to get to their level of craftsmanship.

I have been making knives for several years and the majority of my knowledge has been acquired mainly through the multiple forums available on the Internet. I have not had anyone personally show me exactly how these processes are done but I have spoken to few makers who have given me some tips and little tricks. I'm sure every maker has their own way of doing things and I am showing you the way that I do them.

The majority of makers out there are more than willing to share their knowledge with others that are willing to learn. No matter how much you think you know, you have only scratched the surface. The following tutorial is my way of "Paying it Forward" I am trying to share the knowledge I have gained with others. I hope you find it useful.

I will be adding additional tutorial pages as I progress with this knife.

Thanks for letting me share.

Bill Vining