Folder kits - what's out there?

[BrB]

Hello guys, I was looking into folder kits and all I can see everywere are the Darrel Ralph kits. They are really very good as far as I can see, but I would very much like to see other options. Would you guys have some links to help me out? I have never tried a folder before so I guess it would be fun.

[jdltd]

Texas knife supply has a bunch that aren't Darrel's I think. Check them out here.

http://www.texasknife.com/store/s-pages/TKS_MainframeStore.htm

I haven't tried any of them yet. But when I do, I probly will try out Darrel's. I've been really impressed with the work people have done with his folder designs.

Hope that link helps you out though.

[jdltd]

hmmm, that link didn't work. lets try that again.

www.texasknife.com/store/s-pages/TKS_MainframeStore.htm

[jdltd]

Those link aren't working for me. That was my first time trying to post a direct link, sorry. I'll try it one more time, if it doesn't work... just go to texasknife.com and look up there folder kits. they have quite a few.

http://www.texasknife.com/store/s-pa...frameStore.htm

[BrB]

Thanks for the link John, I have already been there. All great kits, but the tactical ones are all Darrel's.

I might end up with one of his kits, and that will probably be the best choice. I just wanted to see other stuff as well.

[jdltd]

sorry about that. I do hope you find what you're looking for. Everyone around here really likes Darrel's kits, so I definitly think you would be pleased with one. Good luck.

[Osprey Guy]

Both TKS and Koval offer other folder kits...but I've never once heard anyone rave about them the way everyone does about DR's kits. I know I'm highly prejudiced, everyone knows what a huge fan I am of the knifekit.com kits (all designed by Darrel, who along with Alex, clearly keep a close eye on the quality, which is consistently top-notch)... I think there's a good reason why you mostly hear about their kits over any others.

I will confess I am a little interested in checking out the Mikov auto kits (mikovknives.com)...although I'm certain they're nowhere near the quality of Darrel's,... but they do look fun.


Dennis Greenbaum

Yeah Baby!

[KNAdmin]

You're right ... in the right hands, one of those Mikov's would be a very cool piece!
I've never held one, but they look pretty sharp.

Alex

[Bill Vining]

The Mikov Kits are no where near the quality of the ones from knifekits. I have assembled a few and they are alot of fun. Some take a little bit more work than others. The trick with them is to get the test fit just right. There are no screws so everything is pinned. As a matter of fact, once I clear the bench of what I am working on now, a Mikov might be next in line. Of course it will have a few personal touches.

Getting back to the subject of kits, stick with the best, order one from knifekits.com.

Bill

[BrB]

Thank you very much guys, I apreciate the info you gave me.

I will pick one of DR's kits and see what I can do to it. Might take some time though... knife money has been short since I decided to start building my new grinder for integrals :evil ...

The thing is I wanted a nice but not very expensive tactical folder for myself. Since the politicians have taken the right of the brazilian citzens to carry a firearm (that is right!) I feel like a folder would be the logical choice. There are some excelent factory trends, from cheap to very expensive, but a kit would be both a good and economic option and also fun to build.

When I am ready for a real custom I will order a tactical from Korth cutlery, the Lala Brothers.

Can you add some info about cutting performance?

[Osprey Guy]

Jeff-

If you're interested in a great all-round folder, the DDRIII is a real performer and is big enough to "make a statement." I think you'll be very surprised at just how good the quality is on this knife...
The action is smoooooth (especially when you use their phosphorous bronze washers), and it snaps open "with authority!"

Their blades are aus-8...Not one of the newer, sexy steels, but a much better steel than some would give credit. They've done a good job heat and cryo treating them to about a 57 Rockwell. It arrives razor sharp, does a fine job holding the edge, and unlike so many other stainless steels, is a breeze to resharpen.

I felt more than a twinge of sadness when I sold the one I made (I got over it).


Dennis Greenbaum

Yeah Baby!

[BrB]

Thank you again Dennis.

I think my choice will be the DDR3 tactical with curved bolster. I will try to use some great brazilian woods I have and see what comes out. The only thing I would add to the DR lie would be a serrated edge part, closer to the handle. I know some professional knife fighting insturctors and they say it is usual to get your knife stuck to the clothing of your atacker, and the serrated edge helps to rip it off - let's say, from a leather jacket. It looks great though and I have made my choice. Thank you very much for all the info you guys have provided, and Dennis, be sure I will cry out for help here it I need any when putting this beauty together

Quote from Mr. Greenbaum:

Yeah Baby!!!

[BrB]

I just tried to order it, but they won't take Paypal on their order form. I wrote them an e-mail asking for directions. I am really exited about this... 8o

[stoneman]

Jeff, your getting a great knife, my only complaint about the 2 DDR3s I have made, is that they were Christmas presents, and I had to give them away .
Since you have decided on the curved bolsters (incredibly cool look) be sure to order the template, as it does help for getting your scales to fit. Unless you are ordering the scales as well, I think they come pre machined (not positive, don't hold me to it).
Have fun with it!

[BrB]

Dean,

I haven't thought of that.. thanks god I didn't coplete de order because of the Paypal thing. I just wish they can take the payment that way.. otherwise I will be like one sorry kid whose father overslept in the Christmas morning.. NO GIFTS!