Introduction

S

Scoli Forge

Knife maker in training
Joined
Feb 9, 2015
Messages
73
Hello everyone.

I've been coming to this site for years gathering information and learning about all the different techniques and styles out there. Over the past year I've been putting my work space together with the intent to make forged and stock removal knives. I finally have everything set up and am ready to start putting all this information I've been gathering to use. I've yet to complete a knife but have come very close a few times. I have developed a habit that if the grinding/forging starts having issues I tend to start over instead of trying to power through it and make it work. I've kept all my reject knives so far and think that I will be able to salvage a couple of them once I get better at grinding. One of the big things I've learned so far is that YouTube tutorials are not a substitution for actual experience. Thanks for taking the time to read my rambling introduction. I look forward to sharing and exchanging ideas with everyone.
 
Welcome. Please resist the urge to build and use grinding jigs at this early stage. You will be wise to learn freehand grinding now. Getting the feel for it is hard for a while. Like everything else it gets easier over time as your experience grows. When you are comfortable grinding freehand and know the mechanics of how to move the grind around and how to fix things then you can consider using jigs to speed things up. Putting aside projects you are struggling with is good up to a point. Like Clint says, "a man's got to know his limitations". But few things teach you more than persevering and forcing yourself to work through the hard parts and coming out the other side with a better understanding. The trick is learning when something is beyond fixing. Some things will be beyond your skills at your current level. Revisiting those knives later when your skills have improved can be a good move. I have a few of those as well. The only way forward is to get your hands dirty and keep getting them dirty. As you know, you can read and watch videos all day long but nothing takes the place of trying with your own hands. The other thing that will help you a great deal is to take a class or two. Find an experienced knifemaker in your area and inquire about classes or at the very least a tour of his shop. Also, post your drawings here and ask for advice or feedback. That way you can catch problems before you spend a lot of time banging, drilling and grinding metal. Keep us updated with your progress.
 
I agree with your freehand grinding statement. The only thing I've used as an aid at this point is a work rest. I know that's not completely free hand but I'm going to work my way there. I've looked into the Bill Moran bladesmithing classes that are down in Arkansas and they seem to be reasonably priced. I used the "buy once cry once" principle when buying my grinder so I'm going to have to save up a bit before I can afford the classes. I haven't reached out to any local makers yet. I thought it might come off as weird if I was just to cold call someone and ask if I could have a shop tour. I'm hoping being more active on here I can swing a shop visit or some hands on grinding instruction. I plan on posting some pictures of a couple prototypes I've made out of wood and asking for a critique.
 
Welcome! My experience has been that most knife makers are very welcoming and willing to share info and technique. If you find a local guy just call him up and tell him your getting started and would like to talk in person. Practice is the best. I went to a guys shop and asked questions before grinding any knives. Problem was, since I hadn't finished any knives, I didn't really know what to ask. Went back the next time with a notebook full of questions. The best thing, this little wiry old man turned in to a good friend! Good luck and get ready, it's addicting.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top