Ok, I have been thinking about this a bit more, and even after the wine metabolized out of my body it seemed like a good idea, so that's the true test
I'm just going to throw out some ideas/general rules that might be good to consider and others can chime in. And to all of these, exceptions will apply. For instance, every now and then a well-know knife knut will come over from a different forum, so putting a straight post count threshold might not always work, and likewise someone who has a 100 posts but drinks every night for a hundred days and contributes to the 'drinking thread' might not be that great of a person to lend to. Just kidding, but you get what I mean.
Essentially, I don't want it to be too strict to limit loaning, but it must be known that knives are lent at the owners' risk, so the owner should exercise common sense and caution. I would hope the knives come back more used, but undamaged, but that is impossible to guarantee. With that said, there are a some things that might reduce risks of damage, loss, etc.
* In general try to not lend out knives over $500. If you know the person is rock solid, fine, but if something goes wrong with a high-value loan, then it runs the risk of fewer knives being lent or people pulling out.
* I like the name "knife library." Maybe we can start a thread by that name where members can post what they have that is available and others can post solicitations too. Then everything is one place.
* In the end, the owner has the right to say 'no' without any reason. Just accept it if this happens to you.
* If you want to take part and borrow knives, try to be an active member (more posts is usually better), maybe become a site supporter, or offer up your own knives. Giving back is a good sign.
* I am toying with the idea that all loans are publicly posted in thread and not behind the scenes in PMs. Of course details can be worked out in PMs, but this way if there is a 'red flag user' out there, the community can help police it, plus it lets others know that a knife is 'out'.
* Post next to each knife being offered any special reqs/info that might be important (lefty/righty, asymmetric bevels, if you mind it being used in a pro kitchen, etc.) Obviously listing size, knife type, and steel are important too. Also, if you require the knives to be insured, note that. And oh yeah, if the knife is a drawer queen and you are lending it only to supremely sit, unmolested in someone else's drawer, please note that too
* Agree on a lending time and stick to it. No one wants to be chasing down their knives and worrying about it.
* And as always, pictures (+ measurements) are a plus. I am also partly thinking of putting together a 'measuring' kit for lending out. Maybe a set of calipers and a point-tip micrometer so others could spec out their knives if they wanted.
Ok, that's my input so far.
k.