The PDF's apex angle is , so each contacted face makes with the vertical. Let N be the inward normal force per face. Its vertical component is downward, ; limiting upward static friction contributes . Symmetric contacts cancel horizontal forces and torque. Incipient lift consequently requires
This is the usual normal gripping force convention, using . Friction can lift the prism only if , which is satisfied here.
If “force applied” means the magnitude of the entire finger-contact resultant, including its tangential component, the normal versus resultant force in a frictional pinch gives
The optimal resultant lies at the limiting friction angle from the inward normal. Stating which force is being measured avoids confusing these two legitimate quantities.