Socket Mod to a Ka-Bar

[Logans Run]

I didnt see any threads about this specifically
I am thinking about adding a socket to the handle of my Ka-Bar.
I am wondering if anyone has done this to this style of knife.
The handle is made of rubber or silicone .. and is firm but you can still push a finger nail into it.
The process I am thinking about is J-B welding a little aluminum or stainless steel cup into the handle.
Obviously I dont want to ruin my knife, or make it uncomfortable while doing other tasks...
so that is why I am seeking your advice... if you have any to offer.
.

[Jeriah]

I am really confused. You mean a socket like one uses to turn nuts? Transverse through the handle so the sheathed knife functions as a socket wrench? I don't get it. Why?

[hatchtrikk]

I don't follow. Do you mean socketed like the way Storm Crow frequently handles his blades?


Got any pics of what you are trying to do/emulate?

[Logans Run]

I am really confused. You mean a socket like one uses to turn nuts? Transverse through the handle so the sheathed knife functions as a socket wrench? I don't get it. Why?

Oh ... no, sorry, I mean a socket to hold my dowel rod while using a bow for making a primitive fire.
like this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wwmwy620eUk

[Woods Walker]

Something to hold a spindle for a firebow comes to mind but beyond that not 100% sure what the OP means.

edit.

and the OP responds 1 minute before.

[Logans Run]

Something to hold a spindle for a firebow comes to mind but beyond that not 100% sure what the OP means.

edit.

and the OP responds 1 minute before.

LOL ... I have seen a few videos of people using their knives with a mod like this ... it really seems to work well
AND.. its one less thing you have to make when you are building a firebow set up in the back country.

[Woods Walker]

I think the EESE laser strike has a spindle indention on the handle. In the field a harder wood bearing block works but the shot glass trick is so much easier. Not sure how it would work out with the Ka-Bar. Tell you one thing, I would keep the sheath on during use. Lots of cursing and spindle flying goes at times. Maybe next week I will do a sycamore on sycamore friction fire video. Regulator has posted some good bow drill info.

[Logans Run]

I think the EESE laser strike has a spindle indention on the handle. In the field a harder wood bearing block works but the shot glass trick is so much easier. Not sure how it would work out with the Ka-Bar. Tell you one thing, I would keep the sheath on during use. Lots of cursing and spindle flying goes at times. Maybe next week I will do a sycamore on sycamore friction fire video. Regulator has posted some good bow drill info.

yeah, I have thought about the sheath deal .. I think it would be a large PITA since it would be on my belt... fortunately I am a calm type person and dont lose my cool but once every 17 years or so lol.

[Woods Walker]

yeah, I have thought about the sheath deal .. I think it would be a large PITA since it would be on my belt... fortunately I am a calm type person and dont lose my cool but once every 17 years or so lol.

Things are calm in the back yard. If you toss in 10 hours with a backpack, less than optimal hydration/calories combined with a chill and setting sun judgment plus dexterity can become impaired. Not sure I would be looking to add sharpened 1095 into the mix?

[Logans Run]

LOL yeah ... I am no stranger to the back country ... or even adversity in doing so.
one time we were on a 5 day hike in Ventana during tic season. So I got the bright idea to soak all my clothes in some repellant. (per the manufactures recommendations) ... well as it turned out, this stuff did NOT agree with me. 2 days in and I was sick, 3 days in I could no longer eat, 4 days in I could no longer drink. By the 5th day, when we were finally getting out (it was a through hike, not an out and back) I was so sick, that literally I would walk for 15 minutes and throw up for 5 minutes. it was the most miserable I have ever been in my life ... never got bit by a tic though.
good times.... good times.

[gun]

Seems like a waste of time to try to add a socket to your kraton handle. Why not add/modify the existing knife sheath? You can add your divot to the sheath, have it perform fairly well. The sheath should be fairly rigid and comfortable to use as a socket when the knife is securely inside the sheath.

[praharin]

With the right piece of stone I can work up a decent hand hold in about 15 minutes. Wood takes less time, but stone is easier to reduce friction in, IME. I actually have made several, and almost always have one with me when afield. I would suggest making one of stone or antler and keeping it in your kit. I'd make one of antler, but I've never been much of a trophy hunter. I shot an 8 point (4 in western terms) coming up on 2 years ago (the last time I went hunting) and the meat was good, but I think the head is still rotting somewhere

I'm not a fan of using your knife as the hand hold for a bow drill. In fact, that (and the blade thickness/grind combo) has stopped me from buying a Habilis Bush Tool. I wouldn't have a problem with it if you kept the sheath on, but you have already stated that you want to keep the sheath on your belt.


Just make one

[maldon007]

At first I though, just drill a divot in the pomel, but DON'T cause it may cause it to fall off & the tang/blade to fall out the other end

I would say, don't try unless you are pretty damn skilled at this kind of thing... I think of myself as "pretty" damn skilled at DIY junk like this, and I cant think of a way that is solid/decent looking/doesn't interfere with grip/would not require custom machining... But if you do, avoid aluminum, too soft.

[MarkW]

Instead of doing it to your knife, I'd suggest modifying something like an EZE- Lap #21 pocket stone:


Use a drill press that is adjusted so you won't go too deep, and just drill a divot or two on the back side and then you're good to go.

If you're tired, the bow drill can wobble around a bit and I've been able to poke myself with just the wooden parts. This way you'll have a functional piece of extra kit (I'd suggest one with the medium grit) that you'll use anyway for more stuff than making fire when you have nothing but your knife and time.