Learning to forge

N

nitsuj

Joined
Feb 9, 2008
Messages
29
So I'd like to learn to forge blades. I've made a few knives with material removal, nothing fancy, nothing worth showing off. But it was fun and rewarding. But, I've done lots of cutting and filing and grinding over the years for non-knife tasks. I'd really like to try something new. I'd really like to try forging knives, kitchen knives are my primary interest.

So I can google all night, and find all sorts of info. I can surf the Bladeforums and find some of the bestest knife makers in the world willing to share their knowledge. But before making metal red hot and banging it with a hammer, I'd really like to learn more.

Are there classes on such things? A little searching didn't yield much results. I'm in the Pittsburgh area. Any local knife forgers looking for a student? I'd happily pay for the experience. And I have NO plans of selling knives. My gaining knowledge wouldn't be business competition for anyone. This is a hobby only for me.

Thanks!
 
My suggestion for kitchen knives...If you want to forge them, is to start with a decent flat stock, forge the bevels and HT before any grinding. Kitchen knives are generally thinner than a standard knife. There are a few great makers in your area...and a few kitchen knife makers. Maybe contact Lloyd "Butch" Harner or Dave Martell, they might be able to help you in your quest for kitchen knives :)
 
:D The ABS puts on classes. American Bladesmith Society. :D look on their site for class schedules. Hopefully you'll find someone local to learn from! Good luck. Forging is addictive.
 
I teach hand forged blade workshops at the Guilford Art Center in Guilford, CT.
 
Give Deker a shout and find out about the local guild and classes. The guild is the Central Maryland Blacksmiths Guild.
 
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