What you’ll build
This course covers building a liner-lock folding knife with a bearing pivot system, from blade blank through to a smooth, reliable one-hand-opening folder. Liner-locks require tighter tolerances than a fixed blade — you’ll be machining and fitting the lock geometry, pivot and bearings so the action is both safe and smooth.
Because of the precision involved, we recommend this course to people who’ve already completed a basic fixed-blade build (here or elsewhere) and are comfortable with core grinding and heat-treatment steps.
Andre also offers an online, video-based version of the folding knife course for those who’ve completed a basic course but can’t get to Klerksdorp in person — ask on WhatsApp if you’d like details on that option instead.
What the three days look like
Blade & liner layout
Shape the blade blank and cut the liners that will house the lock and pivot mechanism.
Grinding & heat treatment
Grind the blade bevels and heat-treat for hardness, the same core steps as the fixed blade build.
Lock geometry & pivot
Fit the liner-lock face and set up the pivot with bearings for smooth, controlled action.
Scales & assembly
Fit handle scales over the liners and assemble the folder, checking lock-up and blade play.
Tuning & finishing
Fine-tune the action, then finish the blade and handle to a carry-ready standard.
Who this suits
- Makers who’ve completed a basic fixed-blade course.
- Anyone wanting a folding EDC knife they built and can carry.
- Not sure if you qualify? Ask on WhatsApp before booking.