HELP!! I'm new... and confused!!!

[combat_ht]

Hi like I said I am new to the forum. I am in the military and living in Guam USA and just really getting into good quality knives. So I have been draggin my heels for weeks now but I want to make my own knife! I am a welding inspector so I have hook ups with tools, steel, torches, and what ever else i should need. I fidgure I want to make a neck knife to start out with or just a camp/ utility knife. My question is should I use the ol' file trick and start with that or get a piece of stock and work that? Then what about heat treating? I dont have a forge but I have oxy-accetlyene. Is there any FREE websites or threads or anything that will give me step by step with heat treating, angle for grinding, and just over all help? Any info will help!! THANKS!!

 

[FTO_dude]

theres plenty of tutorials out there.

my first was made with a file but it didnt really make a servicable blade, more it tought me about grinding etc.
i see no reason not to jump straight into barstock if its the right price or, grab some old leafsprings

 

[stitchawl]

I'd use leaf springs rather than files. Especially older ones. You can get some good ones at the junk yards near Micronesia Mall. Good carbon steel, easy to work with, and will take a good edge. Or, if you prefer, you can order some really good blanks in any steel and size from Jantz Supply or Texas Knife Maker's Supply.

Stitchawl

 

[oldschool45]

combat_ht

try here http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=741

or maybe somebody will move it for you.
Good Luck but fair warning it is addictive.
Ray

 

[ROBB]

Check out www.knivesby.com Its got some great tutorials.

 

[powernoodle]

You guys who have the time, the equipment and the mad skilz to bake your own blades are making me jealous.

:thumbup:

 

[clockman]

I saw a Big List of topics in one of the knife makers forms that covers just

about anything could want to know about knife making.

It should be a Sticky if its not.