Thread: Know where to buy a Knife Switch?

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Hello everyone,

I'm looking for an oversized knife switch for my mad lab setup. Does anyone know where I can find one?

I know they make small versions for hobby electronics, but I want the oversized Frankenstein switch

eBay is only pulling up the smaller versions, and on Google I see where some people built some themselves. I was hoping to find one that may work so I can control some lighting and dials with it.

Thanks!

Don't think they really make those large working knife switches since the current is actually running through all that exposed metal of the knife. You could easily build one yourself out of metal or wood and to keep it safe, use a small momentary push button switch at the top/bottom of were the switch gets engaged. That way it would be functional and yet safe to the touch.

No way do you want a switch based on a knife design dealing with any kind of voltage or current for that matter. Make it a prop and use conventional safe switch and wiring to take care of the electrical. Unless of course you are looking for the realistic smoking hair look !! LOL

LOL I will take the smoking hair!! JUST KIDDING!!

I like the idea of the momentary push button on the switch, turning it on when it's engaged... Any ideas what kind of parts to use to construct the "knife" portion? I'd like to keep it somewhat authentic looking...

Kind of like the attachment

You could build it simply out of wood or metal bars screwed together.

then something like this

would work for the clipping part for the knives to engage into.

great idea. what is that thing called? tool holder?

I'm thinking about building one too. I was trying to get this killer one from an eBay seller but the bidding went much higher than I expected...





The tool holder clamps are an excellent idea for the contacts. Ahhh, one more project!

What'd you search for on eBay? I can't seem to find anything under "knife switch" or "double pole, double throw" or anything like that.

I imagine if I am only putting a small bit of current through it, it won't be too bad.

I just searched for knife switch. I've checked a few more times but everything is small. I think I'm going to make one myself. It should be very easy and those tool holder clips are perfect for the contacts.

Arbor Scientific Online! - Knife Switch, Double Pole, Double Throw