Firt knives... kinda...

[nb11b]

I have just recently got back into making knives, something I started learning years ago, in High School. Using a much higher quality steel and my own tools is a nice change, but the basics have been coming back pretty fast. The things I've learned, since then, have given a little more purpose to my hobby, as well.
Below are to kiridashi style knives which will be pared with a sub compact pistol for concealed carry. I was asked by a friend to make these, so I guess they are my first order. They are by no means pretty knives, and I've got a long way to go, but they should do the job. Like me, they are not meant for garrison life, they are meant for the field.

Any and all feed back is appreciated!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/4474163...n/photostream/

[Ray Rogers]

Welcome to the forum! Looks like you are off and running....

[nb11b]

Mr. Rogers, thank you! Since completing those, I've forged two knives for a set, and did a stock removal blade, which I completed last night.

Tonight, I am actually going to test fire the larger forge I built, based on your recommendations from your website. I also am using a 4.5" x 10 block of steel I have set up as a post anvil. These should work well for quite a while.

I don't follow any set pattern, regarding a schedule, I just work on what comes to mind, at the time. I'll post some more pictures, shortly.

[metal99]

Nice work. I like the unique grind on that one knife, it's like a flat grind and turns scandi towards the tip.

[nb11b]

I finished this, last night. It's based on maker Daniel Fairly's knives.




These two I forged from an old file (the smaller one) and 1095 for the larger one. Hand rubbed with 500, 600, 1000, and 2000 grit paper.

[metal99]

Makes me want to go fire up the forge...

Lookin good man. Can't wait to see them finished!

[nb11b]

I finished the handles last night. I used boiled Linseed oil, and I love how it brings a little tint to the maple. I cast the fittings, in place, which I am not sold on. There was a void in the larger one, as you can see in the picture. I will have to try nickel, or even casting the bolsters separately.