50-Year-Old Klein Pocket Knife Complete Teardown and Restoration (and Modification)
Рет қаралды 35,468
Күн бұрынThis electrician’s pocket knife was given to me by my grandfather. It was made by M. Klein & Sons Chicago, probably in the 1960’s or 1970’s. The blades were in rough shape - the blades looked like a rough belt sander was used to keep it sharp. The flat screwdriver tip on the secondary blade had been sanded to a sharp tip. The faux-wood plastic scales were cracked and falling apart.
All metal components were cleaned of rust, wire wheeled, sanded, and polished. The blades were cleaned of rust, sanded, polished, and re-sharpened. The faux-wood plastic scales were replaced with handmade maple hardwood scales which were then sealed in boiled linseed oil and waxed. The wood scales can be replaced with the original scales at any point to preserve its history. The pins were replaced with solid brass pins and hand-peened into place.
Maple wood chopped using my restored axe: • Restoring a Vintage Ru...
0:00 - 1:36 Overview
1:37 - 5:41 Disassembly
5:42 - 6:22 Wire wheeling bolster linings
6:23 - 7:39 Rust removal/wire wheeling springs and blades
7:40 - 10:08 Sanding/polishing bolster linings
10:09 - 10:34 Straightening the shackle
10:35 - 10:58 Sanding/polishing bolsters
10:59 - 11:19 Nickel electroplating bolsters
11:20 - 11:54 Sanding/polishing the shackle
11:55 - 12:23 Re-forming screwdriver tip
12:24 - 13:25 Sanding/polishing blades
13:26 - 14:26 Fabricating new wood handle scales
14:27 - 15:25 Epoxying handle scales and bolsters to bolster linings
15:26 - 15:57 Drilling rivet holes
15:58 - 18:46 Assembly
18:47 - 19:24 Final sanding, linseed oil, waxing
19:25 - 19:54 Attaching the shackle
19:55 - 22:15 Before and after
22:16 - 22:44 Sharpness test
22:45 - 23:06 Thank you and subscribe!
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Some of the tools and equipment I used in this video:
(I may receive a portion of the sale of these items, but they do not cost you any extra. These are a great way to support my channel without any increased cost to you!)
Wire brush set: amzn.to/3o6jO74
Camera: amzn.to/3EbiQfo
4" Bench Vise: amzn.to/3EgbSGb
Dremel: amzn.to/2ZMc29e
Sanding discs for Dremel: amzn.to/31gDlJ8
Wire wheels for Dremel: amzn.to/3xFXAfu
Anode set for nickel plating: amzn.to/3G6ou3e
Brass rod/pin stock: amzn.to/3rrhUjr
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Instagram: @catalyst_restorations
Got something you want restored? Did you use any of my techniques in your own videos with great success!? I'd love to see your work! Send a message to CatalystRestorations@gmail.com
#restoration #pocketknife #Klein
@edwardmartin3069 2 жыл бұрын
The knife is Klein's version of the Electrician's Knife, TL-29 (or sometimes found as "Linesman"s Knife, TL-29), They date back to at least 1919 with the original Army Signal Corps Tool Kit. The knife was the 29th item on the Tool List, hence the "TL-29"). The knife was commonly paired with a pair of Linesman's Pliers (TL-13) in a common belt holster.. (Klein is better known for producing quality linesman pliers than knives. They are still one of the leading manufacturers of quality electrician's tools - and most of their stuff is still made in the USA. The company dates back to 1857 and is still family-owned). This design has been made under government contract by just about every knife manufacturer in the country at one time or another. Millions of them were made to support World War II and they continue to be issued as a part of many military tool kits today... The switch from wood scales to plastic started in the latter days of WWII. I don't think any wooden scaled knives have been made since the Viet Nam war years... It is almost impossible to date most examples of this knife unless you have a really old one that dates back to the early days of WWII. It is a popular design for a working knife and has been made for commercial sale almost as long as it has been made for the military... Most military examples have "TL-29" stamped on them somewhere, usually on one scale. Some early examples had this stamped on a nickel-plate shield on one scale. Most of these knives had decent quality carbon steel blades until the sources moved to the Far East and a cheaper grade of stainless was used... You have a good one, it should provide many more years of faithful service...
@CatalystRestorations 2 жыл бұрын
Wow Edward, thank you so much for taking the time to provide all that amazing information! I wish I knew more precisely when this knife was made, but I think you're right that it's probably no older than the Vietnam War years. Use it all the time since I restored it!
@davidleasure9138 2 ай бұрын
Beautiful workmanship. Extended the life another 50 years
@CatalystRestorations 2 ай бұрын
Thanks, David! It gets used all the time now!
@10code4 Жыл бұрын
I love your videos. I have several pocket knives that I purchased in a lot at an auction for almost nothing. You have shown me that they ARE worth the time and effort to restore. Thank you so much!
@CatalystRestorations Жыл бұрын
Thank you! This was the first pocket knife I ever restored and I learned a ton in the process to be more efficient, etc. - I'd recommend 'practicing' on a few you don't mind if they don't turn out quite right as you hone your skills! Totally worth it though if you restore a quality one; it'll last you forever.
@richardrichmond8006 Ай бұрын
Great job.
@CatalystRestorations Ай бұрын
Thanks for watching Richard!
@brysonalden5414 3 жыл бұрын
I think this was a respectful, skillful and appropriate restoration. Nicely done, sir!
@CatalystRestorations 3 жыл бұрын
Thank you! 👍
@brysonalden5414 3 жыл бұрын
@@CatalystRestorations And I thought I would never do one like this, but two days ago my mother-in-law handed me a similar knife in similar condition and asked me to restore it. Guess I'd better watch this again!
@CatalystRestorations 3 жыл бұрын
@@brysonalden5414 Perfect timing! If i were you, I wouldn't make all new wood scales though, haha!
@brysonalden5414 3 жыл бұрын
@@CatalystRestorations Yes, I saw that comment about the scales. The ones on the knife I was given are partly melted, so I don't think there's any reason to try to save them. Plus I have a plentiful supply of bloodwood, which should look nice. Nicer than plastic!
@joaquinperez7567 Жыл бұрын
Exelente restauracion ...pero en realidad las cachas viejas parecian madera de granadillo. Lo cual hace comprensible que parecieran plastico.
@walts4856 3 ай бұрын
Super nice 👍
@CatalystRestorations 3 ай бұрын
Thanks for watching!
@michaelbuckner5374 26 күн бұрын
Wow great work
@CatalystRestorations 26 күн бұрын
Thanks Michael!
@martinshobbykanal2776 3 жыл бұрын
A second life for this beauty!
@randycarter2427 Ай бұрын
Absolutely Great Restoration! I believe I’ve been told the TL stands for Tool-Linesman item # 29 on the tool list.
@CatalystRestorations Ай бұрын
That is great to know, I didn't know that! Thanks!
@grovehouse-bf5mn 10 ай бұрын
Thanks for documenting and sharing this restoration project. I was researching resources to help me retore my father's pocket knife and came upon your video. It's really helped me understand the what to do.
@CatalystRestorations 10 ай бұрын
You're welcome! I tried to show everything so that you can do as much or as little as you feel comfortable doing yourself. Sometimes just seeing someone else do it is all the confidence boost you need! Best wishes with your restorations!
@grovehouse-bf5mn 10 ай бұрын
@@CatalystRestorations Thanks! Honestly, you have given me just enough info and confidence to tackle it.
@erso3302 2 жыл бұрын
Best resto I've seen.
@CatalystRestorations 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you!!! 😁
@xkkjones Жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing. Great work!
@CatalystRestorations Жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@mikeboyce584 Жыл бұрын
You did your grandpa proud fine work quality knife for the time and you brought it back
@CatalystRestorations Жыл бұрын
Thanks Mike!
@davidcoats1037 3 жыл бұрын
Fantastic job on the restoration/ upgrade! Also great work with the video editing and production. I love the sped up peening with the hammer. I could watch that for hours lol. Maybe that’s why I like woodpeckers so much. Loving your work man. Keep it up! 😃👍🏼
@CatalystRestorations 3 жыл бұрын
I love sped up peening too! So satisfying! Thanks! 👍
@vtxdaryl 7 ай бұрын
Unbelievable results. Enjoyed watching this, very relaxing.
@CatalystRestorations 7 ай бұрын
Thank you! And thank you for watching!
@dr.brinebasterd8982 5 ай бұрын
The linseed oil on maple really looks nice
@CatalystRestorations 5 ай бұрын
It's a favorite of mine!
@ihrescue Жыл бұрын
I had one issued as a cache of electronics tools by the US Air Force in 1973. I need to get another one. That knife blade has been sharpened a few times.
@CatalystRestorations Жыл бұрын
Very cool!! Yeah, my grandpa probably ground it a bit too aggressively over the years, but it's mostly back to former glory now
@mathuparrish6798 2 жыл бұрын
Wow! That turned out really nice!
@CatalystRestorations 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you! And thanks for watching!
@mikeygee2465 3 жыл бұрын
Looks great! Really like the maple and brass.
@CatalystRestorations 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Mikey! I really wanted a dark wood to contrast with the brass, but I've really come around to the lighter wood complimenting the brass!
@wderoker Жыл бұрын
Great work! Thanks for sharing. A joy to watch!
@CatalystRestorations Жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for watching, William!!
@ethan_anthem 3 жыл бұрын
The light colored wood looks great!
@CatalystRestorations 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks dude!
@markjob7736 2 жыл бұрын
Those were Ebony or Rosewood handles and that knife was made in the 1930's. I collect the wooden handled ones with shields on them. Great knives.
@CatalystRestorations 2 жыл бұрын
Wow, thanks for the info Mark! I definitely did not think it was that old. Luckily, I saved the original wood scales intact if I ever decide to re-restore it!
@markjob7736 2 жыл бұрын
@@CatalystRestorations No problem. You did a great job on that knife! I make some custom folders and purchase Ebony on ebay. If it were me, I would scrap the old and make new handles. Just my opinion.
@joaquinperez7567 Жыл бұрын
En efecto es granadillo negro
@tntchitwood 3 жыл бұрын
Gorgeous!
@CatalystRestorations 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Tom!
@alanhelig221 11 ай бұрын
Stunning
@CatalystRestorations 11 ай бұрын
Thank you!
@hityoutwo 2 жыл бұрын
That was really enjoyable to watch. You definitely did the knife justice!
@CatalystRestorations 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks Julian, much appreciated!
@akobayashi9381 2 жыл бұрын
You should have restored and used the old handle scales. They were the coolest part of the knife.
@CatalystRestorations 2 жыл бұрын
Never fear! I saved the original plastic scales so they could be switched out for the wood ones at some point.
@samhackney5977 Жыл бұрын
Nice job!👍
@CatalystRestorations Жыл бұрын
Thank you, Sam! And thanks for watching!
@jimamccracken5783 Жыл бұрын
Very nice indeed restore.
@CatalystRestorations Жыл бұрын
Thanks Jim!
@thierrypasquet1503 2 жыл бұрын
Très belle restauration, bravo.
@CatalystRestorations 2 жыл бұрын
Merci, Thierry!! 😊
@joaquinperez7567 Жыл бұрын
Es un gran filo felicidades.
@CatalystRestorations Жыл бұрын
¡Gracias!
@zenaldiak Ай бұрын
I have one with ebony scales, and " S Klein Tools Japan" inscription on the main blade, in mint condition
@CatalystRestorations Ай бұрын
Sounds amazing!
@pmauriciomm Жыл бұрын
You great honored your Grandppa!
@CatalystRestorations Жыл бұрын
Thank you! He loved this restoration so much when I showed him the final product in person!
@SynCiLLmaTiiKz 3 ай бұрын
Hey! Awesome video. I am actually renovating the same knife for my dad for a birthday present. Was trying to find the pins to use in the handle. Do you remember where you got the metal “wiring” for the pins? Thank you very much!
@CatalystRestorations 3 ай бұрын
I got mine off Amazon. Search for "assorted brass rods" and you should find what you're looking for! Some hardware stores carry small solid brass rods too. Enjoy the project, what a great gift!
@glengrossnickle4985 3 жыл бұрын
Very nice. I like the light wood. Did Klein ever make them with wood scales? Where did you get your brass? I have several old wood handle tools that I have started restoring and their scales are bad. So I need to get some supplies. Thanks
@CatalystRestorations 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Glen! As far I am aware, Klein never made wood scaled knives, only faux-wood plastic (more durable and practical for an everyday electrician, so I get it). I bought the brass pin material on Amazon (12 pcs of assorted sizes was about $10), but there are many other online and in-store retailers that sell it as well. Just search for 'brass rod stock' or 'brass pin stock' and you should find plenty of options! Good luck, and happy restoring!
@grahamparr3933 3 жыл бұрын
Lay the back of knife on sandpaper flatten raised edges of spacers to finish off.
@johnkeck1025 Жыл бұрын
I know some old timers took thoughs old t29 knives and turned the screwdriver tip into a chisle for wood work..
@CatalystRestorations Жыл бұрын
Interesting choice! Can't say I'd do the same ever, but to each their own!
@IgorANUR 2 ай бұрын
Здравствуйте.А Вы не знаете по поводу накладок оригинальных,это дерево Венге?🤔Или какой-то другой вид древесины?
@CatalystRestorations 2 ай бұрын
I believe it is rosewood!!
@jeffreythomasonify 3 жыл бұрын
Question: what metal do you use for the new pins?
@CatalystRestorations 3 жыл бұрын
Brass! I bought these ones on Amazon, just search for 'brass pin stock' and you'll find loads of options. 😁👍
@AaronBelknap Жыл бұрын
I like it great job on that! I need to get a plating set up! where did you get yours?
@CatalystRestorations Жыл бұрын
Thanks! Search 'nickel anode' on Amazon or eBay and you can get a kit with nickel, copper, and zinc strips. Then you can use wires and AA batteries for the electricity. If you search DIY nickel plating on KZfaq I recommend Geoffrey Coker's video - it's the best and simplest tutorial!
@John-sq7uf Жыл бұрын
What is that sanding disc attachment for your Dremel called? I’ve never seen one like that.
@CatalystRestorations Жыл бұрын
Look up "sanding discs for dremel" and you'll find exactly what I use!
@blueduck9409 2 жыл бұрын
I would have oiled the wood before i put it on the knife, but that was a goid job!
@CatalystRestorations 2 жыл бұрын
I'd probably do the same if I did this project again. Thanks for watching!
@user-pi9ci1zb6h 25 күн бұрын
I would put plastic instead of wood. Here in Russia, bronze or brass wires are very difficult to find.
@CatalystRestorations 25 күн бұрын
I get that!
@floydcrase625 2 жыл бұрын
The old scales was rose wood could tell from the close up
@CatalystRestorations 2 жыл бұрын
Hmmm...maybe? I still have them (in case I want to put them back on some day), but I couldn't find any literature online to suggest Klein ever made these electricians knives with rosewood scales.
@wizardofahhhs759 2 жыл бұрын
They're American walnut.
@thornekimroberts8502 2 жыл бұрын
I have that exact knife. How much would you charge to do that exact same thing to mine?
@CatalystRestorations 2 жыл бұрын
Hi! I do these projects for personal use with no intent to sell the finished product because it simply isn't monetarily worth the labor and supplies (although they have great sentimental value to me). This project took about 30 hours over the course of a month to complete. A fair cost of labor alone would be several hundreds of dollars unfortunately. I do offer to restore and return items just in exchange for me filming the process and uploading the video, as long as it's something I have not already restored on camera and uploaded to KZfaq.
@thornekimroberts8502 2 жыл бұрын
Do you have a first email where I could send some possible item ideas for restoration?
@CatalystRestorations 2 жыл бұрын
@@thornekimroberts8502 Yup! Catalystrestorations@gmail.com
@thornekimroberts8502 2 жыл бұрын
@@CatalystRestorations 10-4
@American_Jeeper 3 жыл бұрын
You do really great work, but I’ll admit I’m a bit torn. Some items absolutely need restoration, but others deserve preservation and, in my opinion (we all know the saying about them), this one would have been worthy of stabilizing the handles with epoxy, and then a good cleaning, polishing, sharpening and nothing more. What I love about the old Klein pocketknives are the plastic handles and the way they were made to look like wood. This is not to detract from your results, which do the knife justice. I’m just a sucker for nostalgia.
@CatalystRestorations 3 жыл бұрын
I wholeheartedly agree with you - I was so torn on keeping the original scales or making new ones! The good news is that with all my restorations I always save all the original pieces that I do replace and preserve them as best as I can, so at any time in the future they can be put back on. Who knows, in a year from now I might feel like making another video restoring my restoration! Thanks for the kind words!
@DrRestoration 3 жыл бұрын
Very nice Catalyst! 😊👍
@jsollien127 2 жыл бұрын
I'm having a difficult time feeling nostalgic when the knife is still in production. But as you said about opinions...
@georgegordonbrown9522 2 жыл бұрын
As expected you made a piece of functional junk out of a vintage object.
@CatalystRestorations 2 жыл бұрын
As expected this is the only joke you know.
@GnabhanJr Жыл бұрын
if you wish i can send you an small pieace of brasilian dark rosewood, no cust , free, from antique door i took can send me mail and we do ship detail´s
@CatalystRestorations Жыл бұрын
Send me an email catalystrestorations@gmail.com!
@kaymunnich1483 Жыл бұрын
Nice work, but you stole the charme from the knife. Now it looks like a cheap China copy.
@CatalystRestorations Жыл бұрын
Charming, but useless in the original condition so a small price to pay 🤷🏽♂️
@kaymunnich1483 Жыл бұрын
@@CatalystRestorations ok, the argument is correct 😉👍
@UltraMagaFan Ай бұрын
You should have made the handle out of red oak. That maple is ugly af.
@CatalystRestorations Ай бұрын
Send me some red oak and I'll re-restore it just for you, Mr. Ultra MAGA Yours truly, Dark Brandon
@UltraMagaFan Ай бұрын
@@CatalystRestorations Thats not necessary. It looks good. I’m just personally not a fan of maple. But if you really want to, send me your email address and we can arrange something. I have about a cord of red oak on my firewood pile. It wouldn’t be a problem.
Catalyst Restorations
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