First knife design

[Mazz]

Hello! I've recently decided to take up knife making as a hobby. Before starting my first knife I wanted to get some advice/critique of my design.

So far my plan: Use 3/16" O-1 tool steel for the blade
Wood scales for handle (Haven't decided on the the exact type yet)
3: 1/4" Corby bolts (Though I think I could make it with 2 and it'd be ok)

As for tools, I have several files as well as a craftsman 2x42 belt sander with assorted belts. I plan on rough grinding the knife out using the belt sander and then using the files to add the finer bits.

Any advice you all can give me is appreciated! Thank you!

 

[samuraistuart]

The overall design is very good! A few changes, just my opinion.....do what you want with it! I would make the handle a bit longer, more in proportion to the blade length. The little "guard" you have hanging down....I would ditch that. Just make a smooth transition from your finger choil to the blade choil. The grind line at the tip....you have it turned up. Make the grind line a tad higher (closer to the spine) and then straight across towards the tip.

 

[Willie71]

The lanyard hole is too close to the edge if you plan to have it in the scales. The scales will chip out if that thin. I agree with Stuart's advice too. Reasonable design :thumbup:.

 

[LARRYZ10]

I agree the lanyard hole is just a little too close to both edges of the scales. I would then move the back hole a little toward the center and not use a center bolt. I like the blade shape but would grind the top line straight across for good looks. This is your knife though so you should make it how you like it.

 

[ev13wt]

I like it. Move the lanyard hole as said and that grind line is gong to be pretty hard to do. Build yourself a file rig if you are going to put a flat bevel on it. It makes things easier in my opinion.

Practice the knife on a piece of hardwood or even plexiglass.

 

[Mazz]

I appreciate all the advice so far! Though I ultimately am the one who decides what my knife looks like, I would be foolish to ignore the words of the more experienced.

I've decided to redo my grind line, as well as lengthen the handle a bit and lose the middle corby bolt, giving more space for my thong hole.

I'm definitely liking the design more. Next up, I think I'll make a wooden mock up to get a better feel for it. Once again, thanks for all the advice! I'll try to keep track of the progress I make.

 

[ev13wt]

May I suggest some small changes? A hidden lanyard hole! I am not experienced but the above handle looks a bit squarish. Maybe less drop in the back than in my photoshop, because it changes the design too much. But its your design, you need to like it!

Edit: Now looking at both I like your design better. Its unique. Just a tad more drop in the back/top area and a hidden lanyard hole