Black Beauty

Karl B. Andersen

Karl B. Andersen

Joined
Jul 27, 2003
Messages
5,667
Had to try this!
Forged 5160, forged from heavy stock, differential heat treat.
Black Canvas Micarta handle.
Hot blued mild steel fittings
Take-down configuration.
I haven't been showing this in some of my photos, but that little gadget is the "wrench" for removing the pommel nut. The small end is turned on my lathe to exactly fit the hole in the pommel nut.
 
I've looked at this little darling a few times, but neglected to post a comment, perhaps because it's out of my price range.

My favourite part is the handle. I think it is very nicely done. The blued fittings are a great touch, and add another level of class to the piece. The blade looks good. The interesting point is the take-down construction. I may be way off here, but I have a feeling that take-down construction is a significant factor in adding value, particularly in the long run. Not many people are doing it, and that puts you into a rarefied atmosphere. It also reflects a certain confidence in the piece. You're saying to the customer that you have supreme confidence in every surface of every component. I think that counts for something. I guess only time will tell.
 
Thanks.
Time has already spoken!
A mechanical connection is far superior to any adhesive.
Plus, if that was a stag handle, I NEVER need to worry about the handle material expanding or contracting.
There are also four alignment pins in the configuration that you can't see.
That handle is just regular ol' Micarta! Sometimes I blast them to expose the fibers for grip, and am toying with that idea on this one, too. It's just that once it's done - it's done! Maybe I'll leave it.
I also really like the hot bluing. It's a little involved and a real time commitment once started, but I think it's worth it. From beginning to end it's about a two hour process so I need to know in advance that the knife warrants it.
Thanks for the kind words.
 
No, it's just polished.
I take all my handles up through 1500 grit and then two different polishing compounds on a buffer.
 
2 words...

A Mazing

I really like the look that your take down pieces have, and this one in particular just speaks to me.

Fantastic work!

-d
 
I love this one so much.

The blade reminds me a bit of the Pronghorn.

Was Ed Fowler an inspiration by any chance?
 
I'd say he was a big inspiration. I took his "Seminar of the High Performance Blade" last summer. So I spent a week learning his forging techniques out at Willow Bow.
Jerry Rados, the acknowleged "King" of fine Damascus, taught me the take-down procedure.
 
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