Ron Lake is one of the most important figures in modern knifemaking, an artist from Oregon celebrated for revolutionizing the folding knife. Starting his journey as a hobbyist in 1965, he used his professional background in machine tool technology to bring a new level of precision to the craft.

 

 

In 1971, he attended his first Knifemakers' Guild show and presented a design that would change everything: the "Interframe" folder. This design featured a strong metal frame with materials like wood or pearl set inside it, creating a sleek, durable, and beautiful handle. He also invented the "Tab-Lock," a small tab at the end of the handle that made the knife much easier and safer to close. These innovations were so groundbreaking that he received a U.S. patent for them in 1974. For over 50 years, Ron Lake's name has been associated with perfection, creating functional tools that are also true works of art, earning him the title "Father of the Modern Day Folding Knife."

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Period:

Contemporary (Active since 1965)

 

Overall Key Characteristics:

• Style: Pioneered the "Interframe" folding knife, known for its streamlined look, extreme precision, and flawless operation. His designs have a clean, minimalist, and elegant aesthetic.

• Technique: Invented the "Tab-Lock" mechanism, a safer and more user-friendly way to unlock a folding knife that provides a mechanical advantage. He was among the first in the Knifemakers' Guild to use a milling machine, advancing the craft's technology.

• Philosophy: Believes in impeccable fit and finish, creating knives that are not only beautiful but also incredibly strong and smooth to operate. He has dedicated himself to mentoring younger makers and sharing his knowledge widely.

• Collaboration: Worked with Michael Walker to create the LAWKS (Lake and Walker Knife Safety), a secondary lock for folding knives. He also designed knives for several companies, including CRKT and Schrade.

 

Legacy:

• Honor: Widely known as the "Father of the Modern Day Folding Knife." He was inducted into the BLADE Magazine Cutlery Hall of Fame in 1998.

• Innovation: Received a U.S. patent in 1974 for his revolutionary interframe design, tab-lock, and blade pivot bushing.  He also co-patented the LAWKS safety system.

• Influence: His 1971 introduction of the interframe folder is seen as a turning point that transformed the custom knife industry. His work is preserved in prestigious collections, including the Smithsonian Institution.

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