I got started today. Blade is being made from a knife edge nicholson file. I have it shaped up pretty close to what I need. The blade is 3 1/4" long. I plan to set the tang with epoxy into a antler handle. I think that I am going to make some sort of guard but nothing big because this is supposed to be a neck knife. I did not anneal the blade since I did not have to take off much material. I have tempered it once at 400 degrees for 2 hours plan to temper it 2 more times. I will post some more pics soon.
(http://i1182.photobucket.com/albums/x460/beetle_bailey1977/1stknifeblade.jpg)
looks real good
be carefull on the temper
i would sharpen and test the edge
do a brass rod test and if the edge chips temper again at that temperature
kevin
Well I finished and set the blade in the handle today. Just have to do final sharpening. I did the brass rod test. The blade did not bend, and it did not chip. I would say that the hardness is good. The handle worked out perfect with the small finger guard. It came from a main beam and the finger guard was a tine base. Now time for the sheath. It will be from alligator leather.
(http://i1182.photobucket.com/albums/x460/beetle_bailey1977/1stknife3rdpic.jpg)
I like it! Wish my first had looked that good!
It was fun. Simple but usefull. I have plans to do some more. I plan to try and make up a forge. I have a lot of old large files begging to be knives. I like useing the antler.
(http://i1182.photobucket.com/albums/x460/beetle_bailey1977/1stknifesheath.jpg)
Well here is the sheath. It turned out well. This is from the tail section of the gator.
knife looks cool....alligator sheath is amazing! i have to ask, what is the brass rod test?
Awesome job all around! Your addicted now!
Google or Bing Brass rod test - it is a poor mans heat treat test that works pretty well. Basically if the edge of the blade flexs and returns when run across a brass rod you hit it right. If it bends your too soft, chips your too hard.
Nice job!
Thanks yall. I think it turned out good for a 1st try.
Awesome knife. Amazing first try.
finally, finally, finally a knife for a lefty.
James, like Skullworks said "your addicted now"
Nice work!
Steve
--------
Potomac Forge