My Bushcraft Design

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345peeler

Joined
Dec 31, 2013
Messages
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So here is my design that I drew up on Microsoft Paint. (I am using the top one). This will be mostly a camp/bushcraft/woodsbumming knife. Specs: 4" Blade; 8" OAL; Flat Grind. All seems well but I have run into a problem. I am only 13 and don't want to send it out for heat treatment so I am using 5160 because I can do it at home easily, but I can only find 5160 in 1/4" stock and I was looking for 3/16. Would the 1/4" be too thick or would it be ok? Should I use 1095 instead? Any input is appreciated.
 
1080 or 1084 can be bought from online knife supply stores and is about the easiest steel to heat treat at home. 1095 is trickier and usually not recommended for beginners.
 
I agree that 1/8" will do you fine, especially for a 4" blade. If you are working with hand tools then 1/8" will be much more friendly than 3/16". 1/4" is really too thick for a knife this size unless you're going for something really specific. It's worth noting that Mors Kochanski describes his ideal bushcraft knife as essentially a sharpened prybar, and his favorite is only 1/8" thick. But obviously it's your choice. Get the picture sorted out and we may have some better advice for you.

- Chris
 
I have to agree with Chris and Frank. 1/8 is much better than 3/16 for an 8" hunter. Now, with that said, I have a Cold Steel Pendelton that is 3/16" thick, but hollow ground. I would prefer a thinner blade on that knife, for sure.
 
Think thin and use 1080/1084.

And out of curiosity, how'd that burl turn out after cooking it?

Try reposting your pics, I don't see anything.
 
One of the damascus makers, I think Alabama Damascus, advertises 5160 in thicknesses less then 1/4" for sale on their site.
 
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