Vallotton, Thomas

I have been a knifemaker since 1995. Since then I have been hooked on knifemaking. My knowledge in knifemaking comes from working with Butch Vallotton and Rainy Vallotton, corresponding with other knifemakers and not the least learning by trial and error. I really like the challenge of folder making. The precision and tools needed really makes it a very interesting job. I have chosen to make folders with linerlocks with ist's simple yet very reliable mechanism that have no moving parts. I like strong and solid folders so I use .050"" thick liners on all linerlocks with blade over 3"". This makes a very strong folder On the smaller knives I use .040"" liners unless you want it different. I prefer using synthetic materials for scales on my folders. I like the way Micarta, G10 and carbon fiber looks and performs on them and it leaves out any shrinking and shifting of the materials. I use some natural materials from time to time such as Pearl and Mammoth ivory. I like bolsters and offer them on most of my folders. These can be left handrubbed or polished. I make all my pocketclips my self and design one for each model I make. On the pictures you might find different clips for the same model as I have tried several designs on most models but in the end I decide on one clip design.for each model. I design all my folders in a CAD program to be able to get the design as efficient as possible. By using this method I can control every little detail down to a fraction of an inch and it provides me with exact blueprints for each part. One detail commonly overlooked in folder making is the blade to handle ratio. I feel it is very important to have as much blade as possible in a folder. All my models at this moment are designed with a thumb stud but I have made a few of them with a nailnick to as an option. If you have a special request just ask.