First knife, hunter?

[glswindle]

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This is my first made knife. I couldn't tell you the steel, as it was scrap from where I work. The wood came from my backyard. I did my best at heat treating in my small home-made furnace. I also learned a few things the hard way while making this knife. Like never put the handle scales on until the blade is finished. There are gouges all around the joint between the front of the handle and the blade, near the ricasso. Also, the hole for the last pin wasn't drilled correctly so there is a space. It was kinda filled up when I glued the scales on. But I think it has character. I might donate this knife to my best friend who is in the USMC if he ever gets deployed.

 

[ncrobb]

I've only finished 6 knives and I have a couple blades working. I learn something with each one and I imagine I will always see something I could have done better. I can see an improvement each time I complete one, especially in the fit and finish department. I have learned you pretty much have to know what steel you are using to be able to properly heat treat. From what I have gathered 1084 is good for newbies as it is easier to get a good heat treat. I like the handle profile; keep grinding.

Robb

 

[glswindle]

All I can really say for the steel is it is probably very common. It was a scrap piece that was cut from a large sheet. And I should have included some kind of scale for size reference, but the handle is small. It really doesn't fit in my hand. I also tried to anneal it, but I'm not sure of the results because I used the oven in my kitchen.