I am personally a huge fan of Walker Knives. When well designed, walkers are extremely practical and beautiful works of craftsmanship. These knives are all thanks to a brilliant knife maker by the name of Michael Walker. Walker’s folding knife design, known as the Linerlock, helped popularize the folder design. It featured a side-spring design that allows for it to be opened and closed while using only one hand. Since then the Walkers have been popular among custom designers.

Michael Walker was originally a jeweler before discovering the world of knife making. His wife introduced him to a copy of Blade Magazine, along with a Gerber knife. Walker realized that there were many things in common between jewelry and custom knives. By 1980, he was crafting blade-fixed art knives, bringing in his artistic eye to enhance the personality of the knives.

Walker eventually got into developing folding knives for better convenience. Adding in the walker interlock mechanism, his Linerlock design allowed for not just easier, one-handed use, but also safety as a secure folding knife. Although Walker trademarked the Linerlock, there have been many other versions under alternative names. These include, but are not limited to Buck knives, Cold Steel, Leatherman, Microtech knives, Spyderco, and Victorinox.

Walker is a fine example of knife makers further establishing the craft as being more than just a tool or weapon. Knife making is an art to itself. Since I hold most of my walker knives in my private collection, I currently only carry one for sale. That one is the Michael Walker Bladelock Folder. It is a Twist patterned Damasteel Blade with Swedge. It also contains a unique handle design. The handle is dovetailed with Damascus bolsters. This is a precious, well-presented blade that contains both an analog and mechanical look to it. As a fan of Michael Walker’s work, you can bet that this one will be well preserved for your own use. However, if you are setting your sights on other kinds of folders, there are plenty available. If you are interested in any other folders for yourself, then please be sure to check out our shop for options. If you have any more questions on the details of your selection, then please contact us for more details.