My 1st Forged Bowie

sharpeknives

sharpeknives

Joined
Jan 13, 2006
Messages
1,655
This is a work in progress. It is mocked up for final fit and finish. I haven't done a large Bowie and decided to go for it. Blade 9.75" 1080, Guard is wrought Iron, ferrol and buttcap are damascus steel (random patteren). Handle is anciant Walrus ivory.
Cant decide whether to make the handle nut in damascus or WI. What do you think. Please I need feedback.
 
That is very nice! It looks like you've forged a great blade.

I too think if you leave the guard in wrought iron then the nut should be the same to tie it all together, kind of symmetrical that way. I cant' really see the pattern in your Damascus steel though from you pictures. If you had closer shots it may make a different influence.

If I can offer my opinion, and take it for what it's worth as I am not a knifemaker just a knife enthusiast, I think that your guard could use a little more character with some file work or some more interesting shape to it.
 
Thanks guys, I agree the guard needs something. I've been looking threw all my old blade mags for some ideas. The damascus isn't etched yet. Thats why the pattern isn't showing. I'm also leanining to WI for the nut.
 
if the butt cap it damascus, i'd have to go with the same for the nut, just my .02
 
atakach said:
if the butt cap it damascus, i'd have to go with the same for the nut, just my .02
Click to expand...

Agreed. And yes the guard most definitely needs some attention, it's pretty bulky the way it stands. Great start though!
Matt Doyle
 
maybe you could take out a 3/4 dia radius out of the guard on the same side opposite sides (top bottom), almost all the way through, leaving enough stock for strength. May make give it a bit more character....then again maybe not, just my .02
 
Looks great! I really like the lines, the top clip bevel looks great, flows well with the handle, and the belly of the blade, with the radiused back corner. I like it over all very much. I would definitely be proud to own and carry that one, let alone be able to say I had made it. I do think the guard looks fine as it is, but as some one already stated, a bit more radius on the top and bottom edge of it would take away some of the blockiness, without loosing any strength. A small S bend might look good on that knife as well.
 
Thanks alot guys. The guard does need attention. After getting to play with it a little I'm seriousely considering a slight S guard in damascus. Most of my forgeing has been 4 and 5" blades. Their is alot of work in these big-uns. Hats off to you guys that do alot of these big blades.
 
Now, look at you.You've got to change your sig line now.
That is one good looking knife,-you might say-it looks sharpe.
Jerry
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top