Drawings for first Hand File Grind

caseyfulp

caseyfulp

Joined
Jan 13, 2017
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I sketched some more at work tonight. Those are on the graph paper on the left. I got home and toyed around with them a bit more after buying some more grid paper with lighter colored lines. The smaller knives are more to fill the gaps of unused steel on the flat stock... just trying to use as much of it as I can. Those small knives can scale to fit as needed. Any way, I am asking opinions on which knife to strap into the vise and hand file for my first go. Any input is appreciated. Thanks.

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I would start with the small one on the right in the bottom photo. Two reasons: First its the easiest design so easy to correct any filing variations. Second its the least amount of material to throw away if you're not happy with the results. Be prepared to toss a few into the "I'll fix that later" box. If it turns out so-so you can use it as a bench knife to remember your first attempt at knife making. Good Luck
 
Now back to your tool list. Do you have a file guide for ricassos and one for blade bevels? These could help you tremendously. Frank
 
Frank Niro said:
Now back to your tool list. Do you have a file guide for ricassos and one for blade bevels? These could help you tremendously. Frank
Click to expand...

Frank, I was planning to use a modified file jig and round the file edges for the sake of the plunge line. Is that what you're referring to? I got that from Gough.
 
Get a round file for that job. Maybe wait on taking the teeth off. The blade filing jig is a simple but effective way to help maintain a flat grinding attitude. Hopefully one of our makers will jump in and show a picture of their's. Sorry, I don't have one to show. As well I don't do pictures unless someone does them for me. Great starting place for most people, by the way.
Frank
 
Frank Niro said:
Get a round file for that job. Maybe wait on taking the teeth off. The blade filing jig is a simple but effective way to help maintain a flat grinding attitude. Hopefully one of our makers will jump in and show a picture of their's. Sorry, I don't have one to show. As well I don't do pictures unless someone does them for me. Great starting place for most people, by the way.
Frank
Click to expand...

I have a handful of round files. My stepdad and I have tools in the house, the shed, a barn from the early 1900s, and a newer barn. On my to-do list is accounting for all of those tools... it is just a messy job. Haha. Thanks though! I was only going to round the corners but your advice makes sense.
 
Some of the most satisfying and cheapest money spent is on a new sharp file.


Worn files and used sandpaper are two of the torture devices waiting for you in hell
 
I am not a fan of a file jig. I don't think they do all that much, have limitations, and don't teach you how to file a blade. But that is a separate issue

On the drawings:
The first page of sketches all have issues. I wouldn't recommend any of them ( the smallest one would be OK, but has minor issues).
On the page with three knives, the middle one is the best handle, but the tip is too pointed. Modify the blade on that one to have an edge more like the larger knife next to it and it would be a great drop point hunter. This is a good first knife project. 3.5" blade and 4" handle is a good ratio.
 
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