How do I grind a Kris?

[Charlie Mike]

Somebody wants me to make a Kris balisong (sharp on one side only). Odds are, I will be using 3/16" ATS34.

 

[SpydercoLover]

Best way i found was to draw it out then use a bench grinder and grind out the "waves" first when I'm...not positive on how you would grind the edge. Good luck. mine came out...okay..

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Make the keris (kris) pattern on paper. When you like the look, transfer it to the steel. Use a small wheel, like a 2-3" one, to set the curves. Then go to the larger contact wheel, 8-10", and start blending in the bevels to get the wavy ridge line. Don't take any place all the way at one time, but slowly sneak up on it. Clean up on the slack belt carefully. Hand sand with a 1" wide leather padded block.

BTW, it does not have to be symmetrical, especially if the spine side will be unsharpened. A good look is to have the spine straight for the first third to half and then start to wave with the edge toward the tip. This should work well in a balisong.

 

[12345678910]

Good luck man.

 

[Charlie Mike]

This is the only grinder I have so it looks like I got some work ahead of me!

 

[parbajtor]

round side of a bastard file (diamond coated if post HT bevelling).

Bit of broomstick with wet and dry wrapped around it for sharpening.