Bill Tuch Custom Knife Fluted Stainless Steel “Velocity” Lockback Folder

"My knives are designed starting with a single line. I attempt to create a feeling of motion and or depth within a stationary flat object. Once I am happy with the design, the question of, can it work comes into play. It's easy to draw them but, then there is the reality of geometry.

My knives are generally constructed using 440C stainless steel for the blade and back spring, with 416 for the frame and back spacer. These materials have proven to be the best choice for this type of intricate work.

I cut out the parts then the blade and back spring are fit to each other and the frame. The blade and sometimes back spring (depending on design) are then beveled and finished by hand. On some designs the blade and back spring are carved with files and carving is brought to a highly polished 8000 grit finish.

The blade and back spring are then heat treated, tempered and finished again. The frame is then hand lapped and the area around the pivot is relieved to allow proper blade clearance. A back spacer is cut and fit for assembly. The knife is assembled and using a tapered pin for the main pivot, the knife is pressed together. The pins are peened and the excess is removed.

With the finished blade well protected, the process of carving and finishing the handle begins. Again, like the blade, files and sandpaper are used to sculpt and finish the knife. This is a long and tenuous process but, the results show it's worth it.

The knife you see here is titled "Velocity". This is the second of this design that I have built. The first was displayed at, The Plaza Cutlery Show in 2013 and was awarded, "Best Folder" honors.