Hello,

I'm looking to build my first slipjoint, I would like to do a ~4" trapper. I have drawn it out a few times, but I can't seem to get the shape right. So... Does anyone have a blueprint or drawing they could send me? or maybe there's a reference site or book availible somewhere? It would be nice to see what shape the back springs are soposed to be along with the handle shape. I know what blade profile to use, although I can't seem to get the pivot holes in the right place in my designs.....

sheath knives don't particularly have any set designs, you can do pretty much what you want. But folders, specificaly slipjoints, I've noticed, have verry deffinate types. I want to stay as close to what is considered an "official" well known trapper, rather than just designing my own.

Any help is much apreciated!
:)
Gary

"How to Make Folding Knives" by Lake, centofante, and Clay has all the information you need to understand the geometry of a single blade slip joint folder. Regardless of whether it's a trapper or any other style the springs and tang arrangements are pretty much the same. As a bonus, the book also includes design information on lock backs and other knives.

If you want to order a copy, try http://www.rayrogers.com/books.htm It may be available in both new and used .....

Ah, thanks Ray, I had not seen that book, I have wanted a copy of the multi-blade book listed from your site but the used ones on amazon are $300(yikes!!)

I will try to get the one you sugested.

Gary

Here goes, first post! Like Ray said, that is a very good book with lots of info in it. I am no expert, but have made a few trappers, starting #7 tomorrow, I hope. Anyway ,I have a pattern for a trapper that a great knifemaker freind gave me. It is along the remington baby bullet design, it measures 3 5/8 closed. If you are interested , I could trace it off for you and mail it.
Cruise around this site , there is a ton of great info.

You can contact me at jhoblade@yahoo.com