Pry tab on handle of full tang blade-Bad idea?

[thomster]

I build knives in my spare time for friends & family. Im looking to build a blade for a machinist friend. It would be an EDC blade he would use while at work. when I sent him a photo of my suggested design, he asked if it was possible to add a Pry-Tab off the handle end. Is this even a good idea or feasible? Im thinking of using either AEB-L or 1095 (its what I have at the moment) Im a little worried it will either chip or create a twist to the tang loosening the scales. Im not sure how hard he will use this feature. C

 

[opaul]

Could you just extend the tang out past the scale. I would think it needs to flow into the shape rather than a protrusion. Lots of knives have extensions on the pommel.

 

[KenH]

Think about how thick the tang is - if it's fairly thick as in a camp knife I don't expect there would be a problem flexing the tang while using the tab.

 

[chrisstaniar]

Hopefully this is just "light" prywork, otherwise I tell clients in my knifecare instructions:

2. Do NOT: Throw, chop, pry or dig with your knife. Get a pry bar, shovel, or axe instead.

He could potentially pry something that would cause the handle to flex and cause issues with the scales attaching to the tang.

 

[fitzo]

Pardon my forward-ness and presumption, but I bet that tab comes back to bite you in the ass, sir.

 

[mike miller]

I for one would not pins handle scales on but use Corby bolts to lock it up.

 

[opaul]

I for one would not pins handle scales on but use Corby bolts to lock it up.

Pins have been around a long time. But Corbys definitely have an application

 

[Edwardshandmadeknives]

I don’t see where it would be a problem. Look at the Swiss Army knives, and Leatherman…..they have screwdrivers on them, with a LOT weaker joint than a protrusion on a full tang. I would harden and temper the tang as well to make it stiffer. AEBL might be better than 1095 since it’s easier to harden the whole tang.

 

[thomster]

Could you just extend the tang out past the scale. I would think it needs to flow into the shape rather than a protrusion. Lots of knives have extensions on the pommel.

Really good idea. This is what I'm planning to do. I talked to him and mentioned that it's really a poor idea to use a knife as a pry tool. he agreed. I will redraw, extending the tang past the scales and use corby's as well. Thanks for the advice!