Friction knives are some of the oldest folding knives made by man, most were of simple design with a single pivot for the blade and a long tang that ressessed into the top of the handle when opened, some had the tang exposed along the top. The blade is effectively held open by hand grip alone but many could be held open with a leather cord wrapped around the tang end. Many different shapes and sizes were made but I will concetrate on a size that is considered to be acceptable in the UK and with a possible legal carry status.
The be of UK compliant specification, they must have blades under 3" (measured on the cutting edge) and no locking mechanism, the blade has to fold readily without undue force, ( light spring pressure as in a springback is ok). With the friction folder an extended tang is used to hold the blade open while in use. when closed the blade relies on friction to keep it closed. I prefer to use a very short tang extension as it is less obtrusive and no less efficient, 1 inch from the pivot point and 1/2 inch protrusion when the blade is folded. In use the knife handles very similar to a springback folding knife. Unless otherwise stated all my friction folders are to UK compiance, I do not claim, like some, that they are fully UK leagal, that status is of yet unproven. Some of my friction folders can be made to lock with a pin lock, as with my bushcraft folder and can be an asset when used in specific activities. under these circumstancies of course they are not legal carry knives.
Folding bushcraft knife, 3" edge 3mm thick blade of 01 tool steel, scandi ground edge. Handle is full size G10 or Mycarta. When open the overall length is 19.5 cm. The handle is 12cm,
Closed position. Blue/black G10
Swedish Friction knife, 3" edge 3mm thick blade of 01 tool steel, scandi grind edge. Handle is full size G10 or mycarta. when open the overall length is 18.5 cm. 11 cm handle.
closed position, Black G10 handle.
As the Swedish friction knife but with a stainless damascus blade (vinland pattern)
