Liner Lock Notch Cutting Fixture

February 19, 2025

Liner Lock Notch Cutting Fixture - Hardcore Grinders & Products - Blade fixtures

Liner Lock Notch Cutting Fixture: Masterful Precision for Folder Makers

What It Is

The Liner Lock Notch Cutting Fixture, from Hardcore Grinders & Products, is a specially engineered jig crafted to significantly simplify and perfect the creation of liner lock notches in folding knives. Built from robust billet 6061 aluminum, attached to a solid 1018 steel base and finished with corrosion-resistant anodizing, this fixture offers both durability and precision—the foundation for flawless performance in your workshop.

Why It Matters

A well-executed liner lock notch is essential for proper lock engagement—the “click” that keeps a folder open securely. Misalignment or imprecision can result in inconsistent lock-up, blade play, or even failure under stress. Unfortunately, many makers must repeatedly assemble/disassemble folders to get this critical angle exactly right—wasting hours and risking damage to knifes.

This fixture addresses those challenges head-on, offering:

Adjustable Angle Control (0–10°): Whether you want a standard notch or a customized lock geometry, the fixture allows precise dial-in without guesswork.
Zeroing Capability: Once set, removing and returning the fixture doesn’t disturb the angle—cutting setup time in half.

Key Benefits:

Precision and Accuracy: The fixture's integrated micrometer-style adjustable settings enable precise notch cutting, ensuring consistent, repeatable and accurate lock geometry.

Durability: Constructed from high-quality materials, the fixture is built to withstand the rigors of regular use in a workshop environment.

Time & Labor Savings: Gone are the frustrations of trial-and-error setups. By cutting the notch directly on the fixture before your final knife assembly, you avoid endlessly assembling and disassembling, potentially saving you hours of time.

Ease of Use: Designed for user-friendly operation, it simplifies the process of creating liner lock notches, saving time and reducing the likelihood of errors.

Versatility: The fixture can also be used on a surface grinder, adding versatility to its applications.

The Liner Lock Mechanism – Why This Jig Is Game-Changing

Liner locks rely on a portion of the liner being spring-bent to intercept the blade tang. Developed in the late 1800s and refined by Michael Walker in the 1980s, they require exact placement and angle for safe and reliable lock-up. Even slight deviations can lead to lock failure or excessive wear.

This fixture empowers makers with:

Accurate placement of the notch relative to the lock bar.
Consistent bevels for reliable lock engagement.
Less handling, reducing risk of finger slip, alignment errors, and blade misalignment during the build.

Workshop Wisdom: Why Knife Makers Love It

“Everyone I turned on to this tool thanked me; it made their life soooo much easier” – Allen Elishewitz
“Game changer … allowed me to better understand my lock-up and produce more consistent work” – Patrick Doyle
“Very easy to get perfect lock geometry without assembling and disassembling … well thought-out design.” – Chad Hopkins

These aren’t marketing lines—they’re real-world testimonials from makers shaving hours off their production, avoiding fit-up frustrations, and getting confident engagement on first try.

Conclusion: Incorporating the Liner Lock Notch Cutting Fixture into your knife-making process can enhance efficiency and precision, leading to higher-quality finished products.

For more information or to purchase the Liner Lock Notch Cutting Fixture, visit Hardcore Grinders & Products' official website.

*Note: Always adhere to safety guidelines and wear appropriate protective equipment when operating workshop tools.*

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