JMD:
I dont use any programs or anything to design my knives! each one is literally made up as i go. ofcourse i use a sharpie to rough draw parts on steel, but after thats its all my imagination!
Drilling and tapping TI is not so bad, as long as you use sharp quality tools. those typhoon handles are hardened 416 i believe, so if your tapping for 2-56 try drilling oversized with a #49 drill. that should be a tad easier on the tap. also, use plenty of lube and a fixture to align your tap. or chuck it into a drill press. i've heard guys using their cordless drills but i've never had luck with it.
I've made a couple bali's using standard tang pins. i'd say its actually a good bit easier then using zen-pins. not sure why, but i just dig the hidden pin thing
when done right i'd say both are equally as strong. however, zen pins would be far easier to replace should wear ever occur.
To use (ikbs) you simply have to make a knife and send it in for approval. so the fella's know your doing it correctly. pretty cool, i'd say. I like bushing/bearings equally. bushings feel more old school and can offer close to zero play and bearings offer...., well... zero blade play.
Just dive in and try making a bali. thats really the best way to learn (imo). if you have any specific questions, ask away!!! we'll help anyway we can cool 1 by we i mean myself and any other bali maker reading. like that Les George fella.
