2nd Knife Finished / Critique

B

Bordo

Joined
May 9, 2012
Messages
82
Finished up my second knife this morning. Please feel free to give me your honest critique.

Specs
OAL: 5 1/2"
Steel: Aldo 1084
Thickness: 1/8"
Handle: Homemade Jeancarta
Finish: Scotch





 
THe blade profile looks good but for me the blade to handle ratio is off. I prefer a much longer handle giving me better control.
 
Nice job.

The only thing that looks like it is off is the front of the handle scales. The don't look to be the same curve on both sides.
 
Stacy you're right they are definitely off. Thanks for pointing that out. Anything I could do to correct it on this one or just leave it as is and be more careful next time?

Hengelo / Broom: thank you for the compliments

Schief: I intended for it to be a smaller 3 finger knife if that changes things or does the ratio just seem off?
 
I would just try to do better on your next one. Are you using a belt grinder? If so, then use a piece of double-sticky carpet tape and tape your scales together inner-side to inner-side and do your initial shaping that way. Regardless of what you are using, this method will help keep things symmetrical.
 
I love that. Nice design. Looks useful, lightweight, and compact. My personal philosophy is "less is more". I have some 3-finger knives, and they do just about everything I want them to do.

+1 on the jeancarta.

I would not try to correct the front of the scales at this point.
 
What you do on the next one is finish the blade all except the final sharpening. Drill the scales to fit the tang holes. First drill one scale for the front and back hole ( drill from the tang side), dropping in a pin in the first hole before drilling the second. Tape the scales together (without the blade) and drill the other scale to match. Drill one hole, slip in a pin, and then drill the other. With both pins in place to align the scales, shape the front end to the curve and profile you like, Sand, and polish in the same manner you plan to do the handle. Untape and separate the scales, assemble them on the tang to check that you like the front part's position. Tape up the blade to keep it clean, and then do the glue-up to the tang. After the resin cures, shape the handle as desired. The front will already be done, so you won't risk scratching up the blade or messing up the matching surfaces.
 
I can appreciate it being a three finger design however to me it has an un-balanced look. That doesn't mean it isn't functional, the balance just does't appeal to me personally.
 
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