This is the sign-up thread for the 2010 Newbie KITH.

This time around we have a theme for the KITH--the Every Day Carry (EDC) KITH.

If you are unfamiliar with a KITH, please check out the threads about them in the Stickies above. While you are up there, check out the photos of all of the great knives that have been made in past KITHs!

Who can participate? Anyone! You don't have to be a bonafide newbie knifemaker to join in. Even for those of you that are more experienced knifemakers, this is a chance to try out new designs and new techniques. Do you make knives via stock removal? Try forging! Have you never tried to make a kydex sheath before? Now's your chance! Have you had a knife design in your head that keeps you awake at night? Make that knife and get some sleep!

Here are some sidebars.

Since we are all making EDC knives, then I suggest that the knife have an overall length not over 8 inches and a blade no longer than 4 inches. This is a knife that you want someone to be able to carry and use, comfortably, every day.

Knives should be sole authorship, but you may send your knives out for heat treat if you are not comfortable or equipped to do your own HT. Pre-made or "kit" knives are discouraged.

Sheaths are optional, but highly encouraged.

Knives should be completed by July 24. Yep--you have 5 months to complete a knife. If you want to join in the fun, then reply to this thread and I will keep a running list. Once we hit the deadline I will poll everyone to see who is still in, and draw names.

Makers are responsible for postage costs to mail your knife to the next person. Likewise, someone will be sending you their knife on their dime. If we have some international participants then we'll try to work something out regarding the costs of international shipping. I won't collect addresses--once I draw names and post the list, you'll be responsible for getting the address of the person you're sending your knife to.

Gentlemen, start your grinders!!!!!!!!

THE LIST:

DaveRuhlig
CWKnifeman
jawilliams0425
pipecrafter
NJStricker
samuraibill
Arccher Moon
NuViking
RebelYell
Kostoglotov
David Godwin
terence
Jimmy D
drac
pipecrafter
squigly1965
txcwby
huntforlife
mcraigl
gigante
Darrin Sanders
RRobaldo
VaughnT
jaysmith10
joe sangster
jethro (Mike Bodine)
willied2111

Still a newbie. Still love KITHs. Sign me up! Now, what to make??
-Dave

I am in Thanks. My EDC is a Folder.
Curtis Wilson

Well you know I am in. Thanks and lets have fun!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm in.... I am working on my first knife now. I have some more steel that is dying to meet Mr. Grinder. haha.

I do have one question though. Does it matter if its fixed or folder? I am only doing fixed blades at the moment.:fencing:

This is going to be GREAT! I am all in. Have about 6 templates done. Easier for me to grind out plywood than steel. Lots cheaper.
James Clair

I'm in! Like Curtis I'm probably doing a folder. Considering I've learned so much of what NOT to do over the last few, I figure I've still got lots to learn. Time to push myself so that it's not a struggle setting up geometries and such.

Samuraibill - Either fixed or folders are fine for an EDC. It's up to you what you want to do.

I do have one question though. Does it matter if its fixed or folder? I am only doing fixed blades at the moment.:fencing:

As long as it meets the definition of an EDC--small and light for carry--then that's all that matters. Fixed or folder matters not.

I'm not sure if I can do an EDC...

As long as it meets the definition of an EDC--small and light for carry--then that's all that matters. Fixed or folder matters not.

Thanks that's all I need to know. this is going to be fun.

Im in.

Please add me to the list aswell. Might as well dive in headfirst.

Greg

I'm not sure if I can do an EDC...

I don't know, Drac. I still think this one is a pretty sweet knife! Guys, I got this one from Drac a few years back in one of our past Newbie KITH's.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y86/wetland_bird/dracKITH.jpg

Very sweet indeed.

Count me in

Looking forward to this

so would guys like pics of the knife in the various stages of production or do we wait.

Pics in progress are highly encouraged!!!

Not quite sure what I would do that would be different for me. Remember one of my two specialties (yah, makes me sound like I almost know what I'm doing:rolleyes:, not!) is EDCs.

Done them with wood, gemstone, ivory, teeth, bone, and other less savory ingredients.
Done them with damascus, engraving and filework.
Done single edge, double edge, edge and a half, wharncliff, and spear point.

About the only thing I haven't done to them is scimwork. What would be stretching to make it part of a newbie kith?

Jim

Jim, as an owner of one of your knives, I can say beyond a shadow of a doubt that anything you make would be worthy of a KITH. Besides, you don't have to be a newb to participate in the newbie KITH.

Not quite sure what I would do that would be different for me. Remember one of my two specialties (yah, makes me sound like I almost know what I'm doing:rolleyes:, not!) is EDCs.

Done them with wood, gemstone, ivory, teeth, bone, and other less savory ingredients.
Done them with damascus, engraving and filework.
Done single edge, double edge, edge and a half, wharncliff, and spear point.

About the only thing I haven't done to them is scimwork. What would be stretching to make it part of a newbie kith?

Jim

What about a different construction? Mortised tang? Framed handle?

Not quite sure what I would do that would be different for me. Remember one of my two specialties (yah, makes me sound like I almost know what I'm doing:rolleyes:, not!) is EDCs.

Done them with wood, gemstone, ivory, teeth, bone, and other less savory ingredients.
Done them with damascus, engraving and filework.
Done single edge, double edge, edge and a half, wharncliff, and spear point.

About the only thing I haven't done to them is scimwork. What would be stretching to make it part of a newbie kith?

Jim

How about some home made handle material. We've all seen the home made micarta, but how about something a little different. I remember a guy that used old circuit boards as handle scales. Here's one I did recently for my brother - the handle is made from crushed shells that I picked up on an island we camp on - mix it with some fiberglass resin, pour it in a mold and... wa la.

http://pic20.picturetrail.com/VOL1616/6734214/21947196/381972262.jpg
http://pic20.picturetrail.com/VOL1616/6734214/21947196/381972248.jpg
http://pic20.picturetrail.com/VOL1616/6734214/21947196/381972233.jpg

The possibilities are endless.....

-Dave

Ok, I'm willing to try something new. Count me in.

David

Well here is what I was thinking, but my grinding still needs work. A LOT OF WORK. Although this knife number two for me. I am trying to find someone to give me some hands-on time. I am trying to make the best knife I can for whoever gets my name.


http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/samuraibill/IMG_0017.jpg

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/samuraibill/IMG_0019.jpg

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y117/samuraibill/IMG_0024.jpg



tell me what ya think.

im in.

Bill you are worrying to much. This is to have fun and to learn. Relax and take a deap breath. Your blade looks very thin. You might have troubles with the heat treat. But as for your design I like it. What steel are you using?

Bill you are worrying to much. This is to have fun and to learn. Relax and take a deap breath. Your blade looks very thin. You might have troubles with the heat treat. But as for your design I like it. What steel are you using?


HAHA yeah I guess I am. I was thinking that it was little thin myself, but that was more for practice than anything else. I was trying to remove what appeared to pits and waves that I assume I made during the grinding. I think I am stepping up on the belts to quickly 60 to 120 to 220. At what point, is it best to change to higher grit belt?


Thanks

Will

Hi all , if there is still a spot open I'd like in Thanks Jim

Gave it a thought and I'm thinking to narrowly. I need to reach out.

So I dug out my Bo Bergman book and looked up Brisa. I'm thinking of going way back to a old style EDC. One that's stood the test of time.

The scandi and the saami.

Can't guarantee anything but I'll give it a try.

Jim

Gave it a thought and I'm thinking to narrowly. I need to reach out.

So I dug out my Bo Bergman book and looked up Brisa. I'm thinking of going way back to a old style EDC. One that's stood the test of time.

The scandi and the saami.

Can't guarantee anything but I'll give it a try.

Jim

drac, That's the spirit!

I've updated the list. David Godwin and JimmyD, stop by the KNet Community page and introduce yourselves, and check out the Newbies section. Tell us a little about yourselves, and where you are in this knife-making addiction. :D

Nathan

Alan Longmire challenged me to something. It's all his fault. A seax, in folding form.

Alan, if you read this, I'm calling you out. Show us what you've got!

BTW, it's all Alan's fault. :D

ah what the heck I'm in.

Im in too !

Got a blade picked out,, A scandie grind in 15n20,,,,Not sure what handle Im gonna use,,,

Alan Longmire challenged me to something. It's all his fault. A seax, in folding form.

I'd like to see that!

I just ordered Don Robinson's Texas toothpick design..... I wonder what I'll do with it??
-Dave

Do I detect a new appreciation for the folding knife? Or is that just me? :)

I don't know if it's a new appreciation as much as continued self destructive behavior....

-Dave

I don't know if it's a new appreciation as much as continued self destructive behavior....

-Dave

Heard that! But I think applies to all knives haha:rockon:

I've updated the list, hopefully I didn't miss anybody, but if I did let me know and I'll put your name up.

Im in.

Some GREAT names coming in. I am getting very excited! I have one started. Hoping to get a few more done by the due date.

Well frick....markd is in. Looong cold weather has kept me out of the shop. for months. I have some blanks partially ground from a while back tho. Will be my first leather sheath.

I'm in. Got a couple of new ideas.

I'm in. Got a couple of new ideas.

The list has been updated. . .

Ok guys let's start seeing some drawings or ideas. I'm thinking maybe a 7" or so OAL with about 3-3.5" blade. I'm considering a blunt tip (usually my whole edge is blunt:cursin) since I seem to use my current EDC as a screwdriver/prybar far more frequently than intended. I'm also thinking about a clip sheath so you can wear it on your belt or or stick it in your pocket. I'll be working on the drawings this w/e.
-Dave

I may try a slip joint depending on how the one out to HT goes together :)

Dave

So, I'm waiting for some belts to grind out my first blade. I'm already thinking about knife number two.

If I understand correctly, I can sign up now and work on a blade for a few months; If when the KITH is over my blade is not worthy of giving to someone, I can bow out?

(This is my first post on KNET, by the way.)

As far as my understanding that is correct Gigante

this isn't a signed in blood agreement. A lot of things can happen between now and the end and for any number of reasons people may opt out at the end.

Okay, I want to play. I hope I can make something worth having. I'm sure I'll have some questions as I'm working on it.

Please put me on the list.

gigante-
Welcome to the forum, to the KITH, and to the greatest American past time since baseball! Check out the Newbies Arena for some great info to get you started. One suggestion, when you buy your steel buy enough for a few blades. Not that your first knife won't be good enough, but because no matter how good or bad it is you'll want to keep it - trust me!
-Dave

Always keep that first blade! I still have the first knife I ever made from barstock. I ain't exactly pretty, but it's all mine, and I still can learn a few things from it.

Welcome gigante!

Yes, people do bow out sometimes close to the end. Life happens, something goes wrong with the heat treat, or they just don't feel the quality merits the viewing by eyes other than their own.

But, you're in, so let us know a little about you and don't be afraid to ask questions. Lots of friendly people here.

Thanks for the welcome, guys. I already feel this is a better/more active community than the other knife forum I joined a few days ago. I love the idea of the KITH as a way to learn and share and appreciate the work of others. I plan on having a knife to trade. Hopefully I'll have a few practice runs before then.

Don't worry, I will not be giving away my first blade. I even picked my steel and handle material (440c and G10) based on the fact that these could outlast me. Hopefully it will be worth of carrying up some mountains and doing some camping this summer, and for a few to come.

A little about me: My name is Chris, age 26, I live in Kansas City, MO, I'm back in school, and sometimes I'm a photographer. You can check out some of my photos here (http://www.flickr.com/photos/chris_pants/) if you'd like.

Chris,

Great photos! You certainly have a sense of humor if your photos are any representation of the photographer.

You should check out the knife photography forum here. It's not always very active, but there are some great threads and information there.

Nathan

Ha, I thought about warning people that that latest set of photos was a bit goofy, but I decided they could find out for themselves.

Welcome chris. I like your black and white photos.
You have to tell me about the motorcycle with all the horns and antlers on it.

Thanks, John. All I know for sure about that bike is that it was sitting in Lake City, CO when my dad and I came down from Engineer's Pass. We stopped to get something to eat and the owner must have been in the same restaurant. It drew a lot of attention from everyone passing by, for obvious reason.

One of these days, I'll get to make a knife again... I still have three outstanding orders and no time time on the radar to get in the shop.

I've been building a guitar with my son. You wouldn't believe how 'in depth' that can be!

Alas, I know I've been scarce around here lately guys, but I'm still around.

This looks like it'll be a great KITH. Have fun with it.

I'd like to play if you guys don't mind.

If it's not too late, I'd like to join in too.
This sounds like fun!

Lance Robaldo

I'm new to the forum and relatively new to knifemaking. Just finished my third knife if 15 years... :)

If it's not too late, I'd like to sign up for the KITH and give it a whirl. Thought about it all last night and didn't sleep well at all, but I feel good about it and like the motivation it gives me to get started on that next blade.

I was just wondering if its to late for me to get in on the action?

List has been updated. Welcome, guys!

Oh, great. Now I'm nervous..... :D

Oh, great. Now I'm nervous..... :D

Don't be. I signed up for this thing before I even started on my first blade, and that was only a couple of weeks ago.

It Has Begun!!!




http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i115/VaughnT/Knifemaking/IMG_3468.jpg

Oh, great. Now I'm nervous..... :D

No worries. We're running this until the end of July. Plenty of time to screw up a couple of knives between now and then. :D

Whoever winds up with my knife is going to get a little bit of me with it!!!!


http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i115/VaughnT/Knifemaking/IMG_3552.jpg


60-grit disc + several hundred RPMs + My FINGER!! = Very, ah, unique sensation I'm in no hurry to experience again.

Ouch!

Been there...
Done that...
Again...
and again...
and again...
ad infinitum....

Sometimes it appears that some lessons learned must be re-inforced with occasional repetition.

Lance

Hey I saw they have this new item..dont know if they have made it to SC yet.. but GLOVES ! hahaha

God speed to the healing !

Dave

Oddly enough, I have a very nice set of welding gloves. This was the first time I went "commando" and got bit! What are the odds!!?!?!?!??

Now it's infected, but I'm hitting the garlic hard and heavy.

This is what I get for listening to those "master bladesmiths" that said you could patina a knife with blood! As much as this one hurts, I don't see me doing any more!!! :punchself

I think that all of us grinders have done this at least once, or twice. You know even when it hurts like ____ to flush it out, after something like this happens you really have to do it. In other words clean out the steel flakes, and belt grit and whatever else got in it out prior to bandage.
Curtis

Please add my name to the hat !

Joe

Dont know if we were suppose too, but here is my WIP. About 7.5 overall all. 3.25" blade 303 SS bolsters. Making it like a folder :o, I dont normally make fixed blades. Best of all...its made from 440c from Jimmy Liles estate.

Dave



http://www.baldcowboy.com/images/kith2.jpg

If you don't mind, I would like to sign up for this. I am in the process of building my new grinder and heat treat oven. So this will be the first on my new equipment. If that qualifies, then I do wish to participate.

Thanks,

Mike Bodine

Dave looks good. I am just making a slip-joint.
Curtis

I was going to post a few pics of mine in progress, but decided to wait until afterwards just for the suspense factor. :p

I'm honestly surprised at how well it's coming out. Of course, I say that and probably incurred a huge jinx as I still have the heat-treat to do.

All told, though, the KITH has done as intended and really made me focus on the details. I've bought a whole bunch of tools to do the job right, including yet another order to USA Knifemakers and Beaumont Metalworks just this evening. Oh, and I fab'd a knife vise.


And that doesn't include inventing at least three new cuss words!

Tex, that's a fine looking knife. Makes me even more glad that I haven't posted pics of my work!!!!

Would anyone involved in this KITH be interested in doing my heat treat for me? This is only my second knife, and I'm not set up for any heat stuff. I don't have it ready for heat, but I was going to use some 1080 I have here at the house. Any thoughts?

If you don't mind, I would like to sign up for this. I am in the process of building my new grinder and heat treat oven. So this will be the first on my new equipment. If that qualifies, then I do wish to participate.

Thanks,

Mike Bodine

Welcome Mike! I'll add you to the list.

Would anyone involved in this KITH be interested in doing my heat treat for me? This is only my second knife, and I'm not set up for any heat stuff. I don't have it ready for heat, but I was going to use some 1080 I have here at the house. Any thoughts?

I'll do it. I'm using 1080 currently. Let me know when your blade is ready, and I'll HT it with mine.

I'll do it. I'm using 1080 currently. Let me know when your blade is ready, and I'll HT it with mine.

Perfect. Do you have a plan for when you'll be doing yours?

Ha--no. I haven't started on my knife. My shop is all torn up right now. I'm building furniture--a twin bed for my son--and so my workbench is now an extended table for my portable planer to plane down some rough sawn oak and cherry lumber. So, my drill press and grinder are sitting in a corner.

How far along are you? I am actually planning to forge my knife for the KITH. If I get your blade HT'd by the end of May, will that work?

How far along are you? I am actually planning to forge my knife for the KITH. If I get your blade HT'd by the end of May, will that work?

My blade has been sharpied onto a piece of steel. I've had a bunch going on these days. Hopefully I'll get into the shop soon-ish. I was just worried you'd be waiting on me. May should be fine.

Just finished relocating to Texas new shop is all setup . An chance I can get in?

Track.. welcome to TEXAS. Got here quick as you could I am sure :) There is plenty of time left so Im sure your in. What part of TX ?

Dave

Hey TX thanks for the responce, I just moved to Jasper TX about 2hr outside of Houston from Athens GA . :) Looking forward to the kith

James

Got it profiled, and somewhat beveled. Attempted to use a buddies belt sander. Huge mistake. Have nicks in the blade that Im sure I cant sand out. I'll keep after it because this profile is wicked! :D

Ok,,,,I have been unable to do anything with the blade I picked out,,,I was wondering if there are any objections to entering a knife I have allready made as I am sure there is no way I will be able to get a knife done in time,,,If any objections,,I will take no offence and gracefully bow ut.

Need to clean up the blade then off to HT.


http://www.baldcowboy.com/images/kith3.jpg

I ground out 5 blades Sunday thanks to a friend letting me use his grinder. It would have taken me all day and a couple pieces of steel to do one on mine. I will pick out the best one and use it for this! Now to get the rest of the parts for my heat treat oven and get it built... I hope to have my grinder completed to do all finish work on it.

After agonizing over whether to make a small necker type fixed blade, or just jump in & make my first folder, I've decided to just take the plunge and make this my first folder for the KITH. (Well 2nd folder, I'm making one for ME at the same time).

At any rate, I've layed out the blade, spring & handle on some paper. It took some time to get the tang to line up properly both open & closed.
If anyone has some tips or tricks on how to get the tang layed out, I'd sure appreciate it!!!

I'm planning on making this a linerless design & useing some G10 I have on hand for the scales.

Since this is my first attempt at a folder, please let me know if you see anything bad blaring out at you.

I'll be cutting them out of 1084 this weekend if nobody sees anything blatantly wrong with my design.

Here's the blade & spring:
http://knifenetwork.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=42&pictureid=305

And here's the handle w/ spring sketched in:
http://knifenetwork.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=42&pictureid=306

I hope whoever gets mine enjoys it. It's only my second knife. Here's a sneak peek:

I've started modeling the knife for the newbie KITH. The cutting edge of the blade is 3.5". The spring is right at 5".

When finished, the knife should be right at 9" open and 5" closed.

It's mildly large for a pocket knife, so I'll probably make up a kydex sheath for it to be carried on a belt.

Now that I've got the pivot hole & spring fulcrum drilled, I can start adjusting the contact points between the spring & tang to get it to open & close exactly as I want. Then I'll heat treat the blade & spring and temper the spring down enough to be "springy".

OPEN:
http://www.knifenetwork.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=42&pictureid=313

1/2 CLOSED:
http://www.knifenetwork.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=42&pictureid=314

FULLY CLOSED:
http://www.knifenetwork.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=42&pictureid=315

Lance

After agonizing over whether to make a small necker type fixed blade, or just jump in & make my first folder, I've decided to just take the plunge and make this my first folder for the KITH. (Well 2nd folder, I'm making one for ME at the same time).

At any rate, I've layed out the blade, spring & handle on some paper. It took some time to get the tang to line up properly both open & closed.
If anyone has some tips or tricks on how to get the tang layed out, I'd sure appreciate it!!!

I'm planning on making this a linerless design & useing some G10 I have on hand for the scales.

Since this is my first attempt at a folder, please let me know if you see anything bad blaring out at you.

I'll be cutting them out of 1084 this weekend if nobody sees anything blatantly wrong with my design.



I don't know if it's just me, but I can't see any of your pictures. It may be a problem on my end, or on yours.

Hmmm, I changed my album settings from Private to Public. Can you see the pictures now?

Yes, that fixed it.

I finished the blade & spring and was just about ready to pin & shape the G10 handles to it & complete my first folder for the KITH project!!!

But before committing it to semi-permanence of pinning, I decided to test the workings by first temporarily pinning it to some wood & I proceeded to open & close it several dozen times when all of a sudden.... SNAP!!!

The back spring broke 1/2 way between the blade & the center pin. :eek:

It's 1084 steel and I heat treated it by heating to non-magnetic & quenching in warm oil. Then I tempered it with two cycles of heating it in my toaster oven @ 400 degrees for 2 hours & cooling off in-between.

Finally I took my Mapp plumbers torch and heated the spring from tip to a bit behind the center pin until it had a nice purple color.

Where did I go wrong?

Why was it still so brittle even after attaining the "correct" oxidation color?

Was perhaps my torch too hot and treated only the surface of the spring but not the interior?

Before heat treat it was quite bendable, but not springy. After the process it seemed springy at first, but I guess it wasn't.

Thanks for any help... I'm re-making the spring & don't want to make the same mistake again!

Lance.

I don't do much with 1084, so take my advice with a grain of salt, but it appears that you didn't get the spring hot enough and were still in the high 50s RC. IIRC, for 1084, you need to the steel all the way to light blue by color, possibly gray depending on the amount of deflection.

For my springs in O1 I temper, if I temper by color after they've gone through the rest of the full heat treat cycle, I need to get them all the way back to gray to hit spring temper - or about 48 to 52RC. These days, however, I just set them in the heat treat oven - that way I know it's correct.

Thanks Kurt.
I ground out a new back spring last night. I'll try a much hotter temper cycle this time.

Last time I tempered it for 2 hrs @ 400 and got a golden straw color. This time I'll temper for 2 hrs @ 500 & see if I can get it closer to blue.

Then if it's still not blue from the tempering, I'll heat it up with my plumbers torch, but this time keeping the torch further away so it hopefully heats through the spring instead of just the surface.

Lance.

When doing folder springs with a torch, I prefer to use a small butane torch - the small kind that are refillable. The flame is very small and controllable, and not as hot as a MAPP torch. It takes a few minutes longer, but it's worth it to have the control IMO.

By the way, this may help:
http://anvilfire.com/index.php?bodyName=/FAQs/temper_colors_hardness.htm&titleName=Temper%20Colors%20and%20Steel%20Hardness %20:%20anvilfire.com

It's a hardness, temperature, and color chart for plain carbon steels. Keep in mind, you want high 40s to low 50s for spring temper.

Thanks again Kurt. I'll pick up one of those little butane torches, I've been looking for an excuse to get one!

The chart is helpful, but slightly confusing. I've always heard that deep BLUE is the color for spring temper, but according to the chart, to get 1080 down to RC 48 you have to take it all the way back to Gray, which according to the chart is about 800 degrees. (I'm extrapolating, 1080 should be somewhere between 1070 and 1095).

800 Deg is certainly more than my toaster oven will get, but my BBQ grill will reach that in about 10 minutes w/ the lid shut and all 3 burners on High.

If this is the case, should I temper the spring in my BBQ?

Or would it be better to temper in the toaster oven to 500 degrees, and then draw it out more with a torch?

Lance.

I wouldn't use the BBQ. I don't think you'd get the temperature control you need. I certainly wouldn't depend on it.

What I would do is temper in your toaster oven the same as you do your blade. Whatever hardness you're trying to reach for the blade will be good for the spring in the short term. Then, using your shiny new small butane torch :) hit the correct draw color for the spring - working slow and methodically. Dunk the spring in cool water when you're finished.

I typically start right behind the middle pin and bring that to gray, then chase the color right up to the face of the spring, and leave the very face a little harder, dunking in water to stop the process.

I'm not claiming to be an expert or anything, but this is what I did until I built a proper heat treat oven, and I haven't had a single failure. And, actually, I use this process from time to time when I want to do a spring quickly without waiting for the heat treat oven to come up to temp - like when I'm testing a new design or something.

As you can see in the chart, the hardness that "blue" represents changes based on the carbon content of the steel. For 1050, blue would be perfectly fine. I forget where I read it, but I seem to recall that "spring steel" is typically 1050 - but that could be pure bunk.

And "spring temper" may or may not be appropriate for "springs" - which could spawn an interesting discussion. :)

I have a couple coming along nicely and at least one should be worthy so I'll play!

Anybody have an update? Mine went to NJStricker for my heat treat today.

Do we have a date that these should be sent out by?
edit: I just saw, July 24th. I had been thinking June all along. I guess I'm ahead of schedule.

well I wish i was in
but I'm going to have to opt out. things got turned upside down for me this year. Was hoping I could pull one together. Just not going to happen.

Hopefully I'll have things together enough for the next one.

Good luck everyone and I look forward to seeing the picture of the finished knives

Chris

I've just updated the list for willied2111.

I haven't been around any of the knife forums as much as I used to, I've been working a lot of hours lately, and working on some woodworking projects instead of knives in the little time that I have. I'm hoping to fire up the forge one of these days soon!

Glad I am in. It will be done soon.

This is on topic for the KITH, even though I posted it in the folder area I thought that some of you might like it here as well in case that you missed it there. It pertains to the spring tension of a folder and how to set it where it will walk and talk.

To pre-load the spring here is something that I was told by J.B. Moore one of the oldest and one of the best foldermakers that I have had the prevlidge of knowing. Get a large double C vice-grips, A 2 x 4 x 8 block of wood, and some try pins.

I do not drill my center pin into the liners until the blade and spring are heat treated, and ready for assembly. Place the liners on the wood and drill for the pivot pin and the heal pin. Place one liner outside down and place the pins in both the blade-pivot and the spring heal pin. Now using the vice grips against the edge of the wood and against the back of the spring and slowly increase the tension to the point that it will walk and talk properly. This is the point that I drill the center pin into the liner. Then remove everthing and place the non drilled liner outside down onto the block and pin, then place the drilled liner and drill the center pin. Now you are ready to assemble the complete knife.

I have been using this method for making slip-joints for six years now, and you can put the proper amount of tension on the spring.
I hope that this helps some of you.
Curtis

Minor shop disasters. Markd is friggin out. :punchself

Hey everyone sorry I haven't been on in a while. Life has been busy to say the least. Got my father out of the hospital last monday and have been helping with him. I might need til the 5th of July to finish up if that is ok. Let me know. Thanks,

James

Unless I'm mistaken & missed a post somewhere we have til July 24th to finish up. So you should be fine.

Lance.

Hey guys! It seems a common theme is that many of us have been pretty busy and not spent much time around here, me included. I'm still going to try to hit the July date, but I really need an a/c in my shop!
-Dave

I think the "life" factor has been hitting us all. I've been working 60+ hour weeks for the past couple of months, so there's been very little knife time.

I got about 70% done then the new job.. I am working 60+ hrs a week. Doesnt look good to finish it. But I ll keep an open mind. After you work without ac in a garage all day in 100 + heat you dont feel like coming home and doing it some more ! :(

Dave

im good, just finishing a sheath. and sharpening.

I'm still in! It needs assembly, but I have all the parts ready.

Anyone know a heat-treat guy around SC? My blade's finally ready, but I'd hate to send just one blade to a big company. It's sanded as far as it's going to get sanded, but I'd rather get the temper professionally done to insure the best quality turnout.

Any ideas?

I've been knocked down to a maybe

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4114/4743928105_b30c8114a3.jpg

Wound up grinding too deep into the corby bolts

:punchself:punchself:punchself

Working on plan B and C

VaughnT,

I send one blade off all the time.I use Texas Knife Makers. Thats the only one Ive used other than a local guy .

Dave

It's good to see some have survived to be involved in this.

I've been knocked down to a maybe


That's a nice looking knife. I hope you can figure out a way to fix it and get it to somebody.

Thanks for the lead, Tex, but they only do air-quenched stainless blades. Just got off the phone with them.

I might have to bow out of this one unless I can get an extension.....

Vaughn, what type of steel is it and how large of a blade is it. Give me a call I probably can help you out.
Cell Phone: 817-676-2105
Curtis

Im going to have to bow out. No time to finish it.

Sorry

Dave

Unfortunately I'm gonna have to drop too. To much to do and to little time to do it in.

Welp mine cracked in HT this weekend. I could have freakin cried.

Dont really think there is enough time to make another one, so I'll have to drop out. I appologize.

Sorry to see you guys go.

Apparently mine is heat treated and ready to be shipped back to me. I'm getting pretty excited for this thing to go down.

If nobody has a problem,,,I have a knife that I finnished a while back that is a nice edc to toss in the hat,,,,

I'm running this baby down to the wire. Just sent the blade off to Texas for a heat-treat and will get her put together as soon as possible. Then I have to cobble together a sheath.....

Can't say for sure that it will be done by the deadline, but I'll send it to whoever just as soon as it's all finished. And, if it does crack, I have two more blades also being treated that would do similarly well - they're just not my favorites. :D

I am still working on mine. My job and the little woman has kept me running the past month. I do hope to have it done by the 16th or so. My blades are looking better with every one I screw up. The first one had very bad grinds that cuased very bad warping. #2 same problem, just a little better. #3 and 4 are looking very good. I do have a professional that is helping me with the heat treating on #3 and 4. Hope every thing goes better with this.
James Clair, Archer Moon.

I should be back in the game

Handles are epoxied up

Stuck with the Wharncliff, but switched to 1095

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4081/4783819129_4b424cd340.jpg

Got mine handle up today.

It is 5160, with a machine finish and butter scotch micarta handles with two ss lanyard tubes.

Just got mine back from Curtis Wilson in TX.

They look sooooooo pretty. I'll start working on the handle and sheath tomorrow! Can't wait to complete my first knife in a dozen years!

Big thanks to Mr. Wilson for the heat-treat help. I wanted this blade to be the best it could be, and now I feel really good about the results.

Mine are back from heat treat with NJStricker and in some vinegar. Unfortunately, the one I liked better had a bad grind and warped a little in the process. I don't like the other as much, but I'll have one to trade.

Ooooooh, got the handle glued on and just need to touch up the fit and finish overall, then make a sheath. Should be good to go by the end of the week.

This one turned out better than I had expected, so I'm happy. She'll be a good daily user, but just as pretty sitting in a collection.

If nobody has a problem,,,I have a knife that I finnished a while back that is a nice edc to toss in the hat,,,,

I don't have a problem, if no one else does. Maybe others will offer their 2 cents. . .

No problem here

I'm back in, knife is complete and should finish up the sheath this week

Vaughn, I am glad to hear that you got the blades OK, and that you are going to have one finished for the KITH. I hopr that you were satified with all of the blades that I heat treated for you.
Curtis

Okay, so mine is done, but came out a little uglier than I was hoping. It's sharp, but pretty rough overall as far as finish goes. I made a lot of mistakes, and learned a few things. I am thinking about taking my name out of the hat, but at the same time, I said I was making one for this and I made one. I'm just worried somebody will be disappointed with it.

If you're done your're in :) Its a Newbie KITH, the important thing is to make the knife and get some feedback

Who knows, one day you may make it to the top of the knifemaking world and someone will have one of your early knives

I guess that settles that.

If I do make it to the top, whoever gets it can blackmail me to keep this one from seeing daylight.

The KITH is about having fun, and learning something in the process. If you aren't quite happy with the knife (hint--you never will be), then you at least have learned enough to know that things need improvement.

Mine is together. Now I just need to work on a sheath.

I'm done, my sheath is done, and I am ready.

Somebody's getting the one in front:
http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u90/_gigante_/DSC_4347s.jpg

Okay guys, who's doing the drawing? I'd like to send mine out tomorrow if possible.

The order won't get set until the end of the month when we've got a count of everybody thats in

Oh, it is supposed to end tomorrow, so I thought that is when we do it. I'll be out of town the first week of August. I guess I could take it with me and try to drop it off while I'm on vacation.

Sorry guys, still swamped here. We'll get a head count of who is still in, then I'll draw names. The last couple of times we've had a few people new to KNet who signed up and then disappeared.

So, who is still in? Post here in this thread to let us know, preferably by Sunday night.

im in, sheath is only half done but i will finish it before it hits the mail

i'm in.

I'm in. I'll post photos tommorow

I am still in here just have to assemble the folder and put the finishing touches on it.
I will psot photos Sat. or Sun.
Curtis

I'm in. I also made a folder, and I'm looking forward to getting some good feedback on it.

Well, the knife's done. It's taken five months, but it's done. Man, what a ride!

All I have to do now is build a sheath, and that's going to take a few days to figure out. Can't wait to see what other folks have come up with.

Here's my entry

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4076/4828925738_39989668dc.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4096/4828302357_e21e6d0b3b.jpg

1095 w/ Hamon
Bocote withe red spacers

I've got a little more work on the sheath

I am going to have to bow out. I can not get past my heat treating. Sorry, I was really looking forward to all of this.

I dont think I was officialy in.. ( i did post a while back but didnt make the list) But im in.. if im in ?
LOL
James

Ugh! Trying to put an edge on the blade and I slipped. Now I have a nice big gash going down the side!!!!

I'm hoping I can clean it up with some 120g, but it's deep and looks like it's going to take a lot of sanding to get back to something looking decent.

scratches add character

Guys, I'm out too. I made a folder and totally messed up cutting the nail nick. I can't give this to anyone and I don't have nearly enought time to make a new one. Sorry.

Ugh! Trying to put an edge on the blade and I slipped. Now I have a nice big gash going down the side!!!!

I'm hoping I can clean it up with some 120g, but it's deep and looks like it's going to take a lot of sanding to get back to something looking decent.

Sorry to hear it! I've been following your thread over on KnifeDogs, it's looking great!

It looks like we're still getting yeas or nays trickling in. I'll give it a couple more days for people to tell us whether or not they are still in.

If I don't hear from someone, especially those who haven't even posted on the Knife Network in several months, then I'll drop them from the list.

I dont think I was officialy in.. ( i did post a while back but didnt make the list) But im in.. if im in ?
LOL
James

Sorry if I missed you! If you're ready, then you're in.

I may have to do these in a couple of posts.
First is the rise and fall indicators in the open, half closed and closed positions. Note: the final adjustment for the closed position can be done during assembly. Next is the name and hand made engraved into the etched damascus. Then the milling of the relief for the liners. Sealing the ostrich scales. Then all of the parts are shown for the shadow scale folder. next is doing the profiling once the liners and scales are glued.

Curtis

Now to finish this one off. The first photo is of the Peen face side , then the back side of the folder. Next is the spring and blade spine of the folder, and a shot showing the name on the inside of the spring after assembly. A shot showing the blade centering it might be off a little but that is how it goes sometimes. And finally a shot of the folder in the closed position.

Someone will enjoy this wharncliff damascus folder, It will walk and talk all day long. The rockwell is around a 57 + or - 0.5, it should hold an edge very well. The shadow scales are of dyed Ostrich Bone. This finished up as a really sweet E.D.C. knife.

CUrtis WIlson

That looks awesome, Curtis!

I'm still working on my fix. With long hours during the week and super-high temps, I haven't been able to get into the shop as much as I would have liked, but I'm still plugging along so don't count me out. If I can save this blade... If not, I'll make up another one and get it right out.

I am still in if I am not to late.

I'm still in... just getting it finished up

I'm still in. Been too pissed about that scratch to go back into the shop this week, but I'll get on it, and make the sheath.

Should be good to go by the end of next week at the latest. I really wanted to get a professionally-made sheath, but that doesn't look to be in the cards, so my "handiwork" will have to do. Be gentle on me! :D

This still a go?

I've been wondering the same thing.

Sorry I've dropped the ball on this, guys. "Overwhelmed" has gotten to be a way of life here.

Unfortunately, I'm out. I was rushing to get the sheath finished, in the process the knife slipped out of the sheath when fitting, dropped onto the floor, and the handle (madrone) cracked.

SHOP TIP: Use a rubber floor mat around your finish station!!! :punchself

Here is the list of names of people who posted that they are still "in." I assigned each a number, and then used Random.org to select the order. You will send your knife to the person below you on the list. If you are last on the list you will send your knife to the person at the top of the list. Please use PM or email to exchange your addresses. The person sending the knife is responsible for shipping costs.

jaysmith10
VaughnT
pipecrafter
Kostoglotov
CWKnifeman
gigante
willied2111
Traoak

Sorry to hear you won't be finishing. Thanks for getting this together!

That sucks about the handle.

Thanks for running the KiTH

I just blew my back out at work. Don't think for one minute that I'm still not in, though!!!

Making this knife has taken entirely too much out of me, but I have to say that it's the best one I've ever made. I can see all kinds of flaws, naturally, but she's still a fine lass and she's in need of a good home.

I'm buzzing on pain meds right now, but I'll have plenty of time over this weekend to get things finished up. Promise!

Pipecrafter, those are some seriously nice pipes on your website. That has got to take a ton of patience and you sure pull it off. And to think, I always assumed your handle meant you worked in a steel mill or the like..

Got mine from Kevin today, really nice piece of work on both the blade (nice Hamon), super sheath. And then comes the best a Wharncliff blade. I think that a Wharncliff is one of the most underrated type of blade designs. It is truely a fine piece.
Thanks,
Curtis

Some good looking work in this one so far!

No..., I am not dead. Just stupid busy.

Three custom motorcycle paint jobs,
A backlog of tattoos that run into Febuary,
Rifle class at Front Sight (awesome fun),
Re-financing the house,
Laundry list of home impovements (painting, carpet, counters, etc),
Bought a camper,
Wrote a complete 'Active Shooter' policy for the largest hospital system in the state,
Soon as I get two Harleys back together, I'll start building a wooden boat in my garage! (can't wait)

I did get a couple knives done over the last two days though. It felt good to be back at the grinder after such a long hiatus. I wish I had the time to get into another KITH.

Good job as always Nate! You guys keep fires burnin! I'll be back on a more regular basis soon.

I got a package from Curtis today. It's a beautiful little knife. My favorite part is the maker's mark on the inside. My only complaint is it's too nice for me to carry every day. I'll have to stick to my current carry.

Thanks a bunch CW.

Chris, I am glad to hear that you liked the knife. But, like the KITH it was an EDC. I normally carry at least 2 knives every day at work. But then I don't cut a lot of things heavy as a Pharmacy Tecnician. Lots of paper and boxes on a daily basis. I am in the Process of making two more like the one that I gave you. One with Red and light Brown/Red Ostrich Bone, the other has antique tortoise shell with intgeral bolster and liners of Brass. I wanted something to highlight the natural scales and Stainless nor Nickle Silver just didn't do it for me. I'll post the pic's when I get them both done. I have another folder that I will be posting in the next day or so. It is a simple Jack knife of 440-C and second cut Sheep Horn.
Anyway, at least you have a nice Sunday knife. Enjoy it, and take care.
Curtis

Just got my KITH knife from Jaysmith10. I was getting a bit worried because he said he mailed it some time ago and it still hadn't showed up.

Gotta say that I'm impressed. For a folder, it walks and talks just fine and fits my needs perfectly because I like to sit around whittling. It's almost scary how well this knife works for making wood chips while sitting on the porch!

Excellent handle shape for good control and a blade that is thin enough to really work deep into some wood. I couldn't resist after opening the box and had to step outside. A few minutes with some scrap red oak and hickory, and I had chips aflyin'!! Made a small crucifix with a log cabin joint and started working on a ball-in-a-cage.

Ya done good, Jay! I'm gonna use the snot out of this thing!!




Oh, yea. Already cut my finger with it. Did I mention that that point is really pointy!!?!?

Good news, Curtis. I carried it yesterday and today. When I wear jeans, I can carry it in the little fifth pocket, and not have to worry as much about losing it. I've lost a few knives when they fall out of my pocket. I used to carry a camillus lev-r-lock, that I still hope I'll come across some day, but it seems unlikely.

Vaughn, post a picture of it, I would like to see it.
Chris, golad that you are using it.
Curtis

I finally got around to putting together a composite of the knife I sent to Kevin. It's nearly identical to one that I made a few months prior. Blade and spring are both O1, pins are 303 stainless, and the handles are canvas micarta.
http://www.ostrogothforge.com/images/swayback_wharncliff.png

Looks great Kurt.

My contribution to the KITH.

Golf Cart leaf spring with canvas micarta scales. Holds a very nice edge, but it's a bit heavy in the handle. It's comfy, though, so...

http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i115/VaughnT/Knifemaking/IMG_4330.jpg

The sheath is by Robert Jones of Handsewn Leather in Kokomo IN. Great work for a fabulous price, can't recommend his work highly enough.




A non-artsy photo to show the whole thing. The handle turned out a bit heavier than I wanted, and I would re-do the angles of the handle if I had it to do all over again, but I enjoyed the learning process and can't wait to build some more knives.

http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i115/VaughnT/Knifemaking/IMG_4283.jpg