Function testing of smaller blades

docdredd

docdredd

Joined
May 25, 2006
Messages
587
hello guys i was wondering what would be the best way to test smaller knifes 6-7 in over all length? on my larger knives i have some seasoned boards that i chop on to test edge holding characteristics but im working on a small fixed blade edc that is just to small to chop with. Are there any standerdized test that i can perform to see how well my blades stack up?
thanks in advance
jon "docdredd" silas
 
thanks for the reply stacy, what is sisal rope and where may it be aquired? also what would be the testing paramaters? # of cuts, ability to shave after cutting or what? thanks
 
Sisal rope is also called manila rope. You get it at the hardware store (home depot). You do push cuts, slicing through the rope in a single stroke. The number of cuts before the blade dulls to the point where the force required is greatly increased is what you count. The number of cuts is used to compare different steels, and to confirm a good HT. Keep good records to form a basis to compare by.
Maybe Ed Fowler will chime in. He does a lot of testing, including rope cutting.
Stacy
 
sounds like a great place to start, and a new note book for my ever increasing library :) any other tests for other aspects of smaller blade testing come to mind?
 
The other standard tests are cutting up cardboard, slicing paper, and of course - shaving hair.
Stacy
 
The rope test: is this by holding it in a loop with your one hand and slicing it with your other?

Lang
 
Probably want to do a brass rod test first of all. Several times on each side. If it fails thewre, no sense in wasting any more time on cutting tests.
 
great feedback guys. im already doing the brass rod test, and i picked up a roll of rope at work today, i just want to make sure that my knives are up to snuff before i list any of them for sale, i have made several as gifts but am hesitant about selling, i hope to purchase a knife makers membership sept first and have my first blade up for review and critique shortly there after.
 
Good posts gentlemen, I congradulate you!

The edge flex and rope cut tests are great predictors of performance, one thing to remember to do is to try them doing the job they are intended to do.

Anyone can learn how to cut with the only tool they have, but when the tool fits the task life is much better.
 
all right guys thanks to all that posted, and keep your eyes pealed for a KSO coming this way :)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top