Custom shortsword? Who to talk to?

Infi-del · Apr 2, 2010

I've been tossing the idea of a custom shortsword for a while now and just have never approached anyone about making it. It's not a complex design, 16.5" blade from .25" thick to maybe 5/16th or even 3/8ths and the blade would be 2" wide. I'd like a really durable steel like maybe 3V or L6. 12" handle, shovel nose spear point, OD Green micarta handles. Who'd be a good person to talk to about getting such a thing made? Here is a rough sketch of the sword. Excuse the line down the middle of the page, I have a cheap scanner.

manowar669 · Apr 2, 2010

Why a 12 inch handle? Even a full size Katana has a shorter handle.

stormbird · Apr 2, 2010

This is perhaps a viable alternative... http://ratknives.com/product.html

I have one on order. Really looking forward to using it

Infi-del · Apr 2, 2010

manowar669 said:
Why a 12 inch handle? Even a full size Katana has a shorter handle.

Cause I want one.

Infi-del · Apr 2, 2010

stormbird said:
This is perhaps a viable alternative... http://ratknives.com/product.html

I have one on order. Really looking forward to using it

Don't care for swamp rat stuff. Besides I have two Busse AK-47s. Really looking for advise on makers that might be able to tackle such a project. I know heat treating something 28.5" in length will be a challenge.

That being said, some measurements can be changed to fit an on site heat treat oven.

bld522 · Apr 2, 2010

Phillip Patton.

Little Green Men · Apr 2, 2010

I believe Justin from Ranger knives does custom work.

Ramm9 · Apr 2, 2010

Big +1 on Philip Patton...

Dawkind said:
Frank Vought, Phillip Patton, Tom Krein and Kent Draper...

or Andy Takach...but I think he only works with forged steel
http://takachforge.com/default.aspx

Here's a camp knife thread, watch for makers that have ovens long enough for the length you are planning.

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=681316