Louis Martin Custom Knives · Est. 1993

Louis Martin Custom Knives

Handmade Folding Knives

Quick Answer

A folding knife has a blade that pivots into the handle for safe carry and compact storage. Louis Martin folding knives are handcrafted with Damascus or high-carbon steel blades, locking mechanisms, and hand-fitted wood, bone, or antler handles.

A premium folding knife is the most personal tool a person carries. At Louis Martin, we craft folding knives that balance precision engineering with traditional handwork — every blade is hand-ground, every handle is hand-fitted, and every locking mechanism is tuned for smooth, positive deployment.

Characteristics & Construction

Lock Mechanisms

Our folding knives use liner locks and frame locks — proven, simple mechanisms that provide solid lockup and easy one-hand release. We avoid complex automatic mechanisms that compromise reliability in field use.

Blade Steels

Folding knife blades in our lineup are offered in Damascus (256-layer high-carbon), D2 semi-stainless tool steel, and 440C stainless. Damascus folders combine stunning visual appeal with outstanding edge retention.

Handle Scales

Handle scales are fitted in stabilized wood, stag deer antler, camel bone, rams horn, and genuine buffalo horn. All scales are hand-contoured, sanded to 600 grit, and finished for a smooth, secure grip.

Blade Profiles

We produce clip-point, drop-point, tanto, and sheepsfoot folding blade profiles. Clip-point and drop-point folders are our most popular — versatile enough for everyday tasks and refined enough for collectors.

Care & Maintenance

  1. 1

    Clean the pivot and lock

    Use a toothpick or soft brush to remove debris from the pivot area and locking mechanism. Grit in the pivot accelerates wear and causes the blade to become loose over time.

  2. 2

    Lubricate the pivot

    Apply a single drop of knife oil or light machine oil to the pivot pin. Open and close the blade several times to work the oil in. Wipe off excess.

  3. 3

    Clean the blade

    Wipe the blade with a dry cloth after each use. For Damascus and high-carbon blades, follow with a light coat of mineral oil to prevent oxidation.

  4. 4

    Check lockup regularly

    Periodically test blade lockup by gripping the spine and attempting to fold the blade while locked. Any movement indicates the lock needs adjustment or the knife needs professional service.

  5. 5

    Store open occasionally

    If storing long-term, leave the blade slightly open to prevent the handle scales from pressing against the blade edge and dulling it.

Folding Knives — Frequently Asked Questions

What is the legal blade length for a folding knife?
Folding knife blade length laws vary by state and municipality. Most states permit folding knives with blades up to 3–4 inches. Always check local laws before carrying.
What is the difference between a liner lock and a frame lock?
A liner lock uses a thin metal liner inside the handle that springs behind the blade tang when open. A frame lock uses the actual handle frame (typically titanium or steel) as the locking bar — generally stronger and preferred in hard-use folders.
Are Damascus folding knives practical for everyday carry?
Yes, with consistent maintenance. Daily carry Damascus folders benefit from a quick wipe and light oil at end of day to prevent oxidation from skin contact and moisture.
How do I sharpen a folding knife?
Open the blade fully and lock it. Sharpen on a whetstone or with a sharpening rod at a consistent 15–20° angle. Work from heel to tip in smooth strokes, alternating sides every 5 strokes. A strop finishes the edge.
What makes a good EDC folding knife?
The best EDC folders are lightweight (under 4 oz), have a blade length of 3–3.5 inches, feature a reliable lock, and use a durable handle material. A pocket clip (tip-up or tip-down) is essential for consistent, accessible carry.
Do Louis Martin folding knives have pocket clips?
Select models in our folding knife lineup include pocket clips. Contact us through our inquiry form to discuss specific configuration options for your preferred folder.

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