ladder pattern langseax

[kevin -the professor]

Hello Everyone,

This is a seax I made to spec for someone (Manlicher on this forum). It was the first chance for me to use the press to make a high layer count pattern. This has about 350 layers of 1080 and 15n20. I am really happy to have this press.

The whole thing was determined by the customer - it is 22" long, 1.24" wide, .25" thick at ricasso, with some taper toward point.

He requested a handle that was 4" in diameter and over 5" long. So, the handle is larger than I would normally use for this, but hey, it's not mine.

The blade does feel pretty good, it is pretty light and fast for a seax.

Oh yeah, the fittings are damascus, too. Also, someone was kind enough to show me a bit about hand finishing, and I was able to get a much better finish on this one than on any of my previous blades.

I tried to talk him into a fuller, but he did not want one.

The next project I am working on, I will use a fuller and double-edged blade to get into more complex geometry. Still, I am really excited by the pattern on this blade.

I will be making seax's (of all constructions and sizes) and kindjals to try and recoup some of the price of the press.

thanks for looking. Comments welcomed,

Kevin

 

[Mannlicher]

Dang Kevin,

That is one pretty blade. I can't wait until it is in my hands!

I'll say up front, that the level of communication, while we have been working together on this project, has been awesome.

I see more work for me in your future.

 

[Diamond J Knives]

That is a beauty! color me jealous...

 

[kevin -the professor]

OK - this one is finished! I have to let the tung oil dry overnight (one last coat) and then it will be shipped to Manlicher tomorow!

The pics do not do this one justice. This is some really beautiful and figured walnut.

Kevin

 

[Mannlicher]

Kevin,

I have alerted my UPS driver that he BETTER get that blade here safely, and ON TIME!

 

[Mannlicher]

The UPS man, in fear for his life, was on time, and the blade was delivered in perfect shape.

I am VERY impressed with Kevin's skill at making a blade such as this. The sheath fits perfectly, the pattern in the steel is phenomenal, and it is razor sharp. The handle is the perfect size. Thanks so much Kevin, for your attention that that critical detail.
I was walking across my back yard, and gently swung the blade against the high grass. It cut it better than my Stilh Weed Whacker

Fit, finish, sharpness, blade shape, steel pattern, and authentic to the period. Who could ask for anything more?

Thanks Kevin..............

With the Walnut Sheath

 

[kevin -the professor]

Great - I am always tense about delivery and making sure that communication was really good the whole time.

It was a pleasure working with you to get what you envisioned. Great mix of instructions and freedom for the artist.

kc

 

[Mannlicher]

Communication is the key to success, when ordering a blade.

Kevin not only asks questions, but listens. He then asks again, before proceeding with a critical step, and when blade smith and customer are in total agreement, he proceeds.

I was most fortunate in working with a craftsman that is so careful with communication. I feel that was the reason that when delivered, the blade met all of my criteria and design ideas.

Lets make something else together before too long.