Modding a Swisstool Spirit

[Kurzon]

I want to modify my Swisstool spirit such that I can open the knife blade with one hand.  On this thread someone did so by adding a thumb stud near the base of the blade.  I'd like to do something similar, except I don't work in a machine shop.  Where should I ask around for someone who can do this sort of modification (I live in Brussels, if that helps)?  Knife shops?  Locksmiths?

[hawkchucker]

I would very likely go with a machine shop. I am sure you can get someone to drill a hole safely.(not ruining the heat treatment) for a six pack.It should only take 5 mins. Most likely take more time to set up the press and the knife jig to do it than to  drill,

[Grant Lamontagne]

That's actually a photoshop job, and I am pretty certain that it could be done with a drill press and Dremel Tool if one was so inclined.

However, keep in mind that the placement of the blade on a Spirit means that you will probably only be able to open it left handed.  Either that or you will have to drill out the pins and re-arrange the tools, which would be a major pain in the bum.

Def

[hawkchucker]

Looking at the Juice I just got (thanks DEF) I just might try to do one this weekend. I guess I can order a thumbstud and drill it out to see if it will work. Then just mill out the side of the alum scale.

[Grant Lamontagne]

I am looking forward to hearing how that goes for you.  I was always going to do that with that one!  Now I am looking at some of the other Juice models I have...

Def

[hawkchucker]

Yah I just was looking at one sided studs and I do think I will drill this weekend, I will post picks and a drilling guide for it. I will most likely have to drill several holes in a old S2 so I can get the mechanics right on it. I dont think the stud will be too far forward.

I will also add how how to easily do it without killing temper. It will be a simple jig with a clay dam and Marvels mystery oil.

[Grant Lamontagne]

I'd be happy to see that too- that (and a healthy dose of laziness!) was the biggest reason why I didn't do it...

Def

[hawkchucker]

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

This it the stud I will use. At the bottom.

[Grant Lamontagne]

Well, you have me beat- I just use the thumbstuds off cheap knives that I have gotten as part of packages on eBay, throw ins with trades etc.  They aren't really high quality or anything, but they are thumbstuds, and how high quality a thumbstud does one need?

Def

[hawkchucker]

Y know you are right. I have the perfect doner knife here. I will have to play this weekend.

[Grant Lamontagne]

Glad I could help!

Def

[Kurzon]

Obviously I want a machine shop, but I don't know any in Brussels, let alone one where I could commission this job.  That's why I'm asking how and where I should conduct my inquiries.  Should I ask a locksmith about anyone who can mod knives?

[Grant Lamontagne]

I guess that really depends.  Like I said, if you are careful and reasonably well inclined you should be able to do it yourself.  A drill press would make the job easier and a dremel tool would make short work of the side plate.  That is if you are a lefty, or don't mind opening the blade left haned.

If you want to re-arrange the tools, I would suggest contacting someone with experience in disassembling SAKs and/or multis and commisioning them to do the job for you.  SwissBianco, who has a forum here, and Rotokid (www.rotokid.sosakonline.com) are two gentlemen who I could suggest talking to for help.

Def