Get started in knifemaking.

K

kutch133

Joined
Nov 1, 2000
Messages
557
This is the first time I've posted in this forum and I going to ask a few questions that have probably been asked many times before but please bear with me. I want to get started in making knives as a hobby and I don't know where to start. So:
1. Where's the best place to get started.
2. What machinery do I need to get, where can I get it and how much should I expect to pay.
I know there are different levels of equipment, but just something basic but not junk to get started. Thanks in advance to all who reply.
 
You definately need a drill, preferrably a drill press. That is the only power equipment that is necessary. It isn't that hard to make a knife using just files, but it is much easier with a belt grinder, most people use a 2"x72". I also have a metal cutting bandsaw, and a wood cutting bandsaw, but I could get by without those. If you use the search function. There are a lot of threads, that will give you an idea of what you need to start out.
Kyle
 
A big part of this question depends on HOW you plan on going about making a knife.
Are you going stock removal'or forging your blades,Do you want to go traditional without power equipment,or do you want just the basic knife shop,or do you want the big machinery like in a machine shop,are you going to send your blades out for heat treating or ar you going to do your own heat treating???????
You will need to think about these options as you are setting up.
Bruce
 
Kutch, you've asked two simple questions that would take volumes to answer. The good news is there's more answers to your questions available here, in vidoes, books, magazines, hammer ins, shows then you could get to in a lifetime. Go learn, but don't expect any easy answers. Do your homework and enjoy the process.
 
kutch -- I think that if you use the search feature here for every type of equipment you have a question about, or even wonder about, you'll find a wealth of information.

There are a lot of threads about how to build one's own machines, where the plans are, etc.

Books can be helpful too. Wayne Goddards "$50 workshop' or whatever it is titled can be very helpful, particularly if you aren't going to go whole hog at buying up machinery. There are other books by well-known makers. If you want to seriously think about getting into forging, I'd recommend Ed Fowler's book, "Knife Talk." I know David Boye has written a book, and know there are others out there, but they're eluding my fuzzy memory right now.

Good luck!
 
turn back now while you still can. here what i did, get a copy of How to make knives, by loveless/ barney. make a few with files(mine didnt turn out as nice as the one in the book) then see what you want to do? its hot grimey, dangerous and i love it. you may just want to make some for yourself and friends.or you may go full time like i and others do.enjoy the ride.
 
One idea that will be distasteful to virtually everyone here :barf: :D is to consider buying a kit knife for starters. In most cases the blade comes heat treated and mostly finished, and you're left with putting on the handle. This might be a safe way to find out if this is something you really want to do before investing in a lot of tools. Most of the knifemaker's supply outfits have them, you could start with Texas Knifemaker's Supply but there are many other fine suppliers.

Personally, I've never made a kit because I wanted to design my own blades too. In that case, the above suggestions for basic tools are all you'd need. Be prepared to grind/file A Lot, and to use up a lot of sandpaper -- more than you can imagine today! :D

Dave
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top