My first attempt at making a knife

It was not the tools . . . . but how you use them ;) I do not really understand how it might turn out like this . File jig is so simple to use . First mark the central line / where will be edge / Start grind with large angle from both sides until you reaches the required thickness on edge for HT . Then lower the angle and continue to grind until you reach the height of bevel you want .If you reaches the edge while you grind before you get imagined height of bevel change the grinding angle ... that's it .Before you change grinding angle be sure you grind both sides on previous angle .On the picture looks like you often change grinding angle or rod you use for file is too thin or too long and flex ??
oEevVxR.jpg
 
That was after I had done some sanding to the blade as well.

My bevel is not good because I didn't know what I was doing when i started and I rocked the file creating a convex edge. I have been able to straighten it up some but it is not going to be perfect. I have though about tossingthis one and starting over but I want to continue through the process because it is a learning experience and I would rather mess up heat treating or putting a handle on this one than the next one that will likely look much prettier.
 
Did some sanding today. Also tried to start some scales but that was a failure. I tried using hardwood samples from Home Depot. They were way to thick. I tried splitting them with the tools I have and it didn't turn out well. I really don't want to mess up some nice material on my first attempt so I guess I will try to find something else cheap.

I need to gather a couple of things so I can heat treat soon. Not feeling great about this build anymore.
 
Hand sanding takes a long time - easily my least favorite part. On the scales subject, even with thick scales you can glue them thick and just use a rasp to shape them. Early on i used very thick +1/2" scales and used a rasp - not ideal but it works.

This is your first knife! Relax and have fun. You can always make more....;)
 
These were 3/4" thick and they had slots milled in the back. It is a small knife too. I ordered some hardwood samples from a flooring company. Will see if they are any better. If not I'll order something proper.

I changed the bevel angle on this knife about 4 times so I don't know if flattening it out completely is even possible. I'm not too concerned about the finish at this point so I will probably heat treat soon.
 
Yeah i'd get something that is around 1/4" MAX 3/16" is even better for that size. There are dozens of places to get some cheaper wood for scales - Woodcraft has some good pre-milled and decently flat seasoned wood for cheap.
 
My first knives were all ground by belt, so I'm interested in how this turns out. Keep it up!
 
I actually think I'm going to try a new one now. I don't quite have everything I need to heat treat and I don't want to stall out so maybe I will make 2 or 3 and then move on.
 
I know this would have been a help a long time ago, but if you take a simple piece of chalk and rub it on your file before you start, it helps release those chips that get stuck in your file easier. Looks like your learning curve is pretty quick.
 
I picked that up a couple days in. Thank you! Between that and the file card...and buying the right stupid file, I think I'm good to go. Going to work on a nee design tonight and probably cut and start filing tomorrow. I'm excited!
 
This thread has been very inspiring. It's answered a lot of questions I had, and pointed me towards the right answers for others. I'm finishing up a small pocket tool that I stupidly decided to make out of titanium, but I' already got started on my filing jig to make my first knife. Before this, I was convinced there was no way I'd be able to make a consistent bevel.
 
ThaFlash_LA said:
This thread has been very inspiring. It's answered a lot of questions I had, and pointed me towards the right answers for others. I'm finishing up a small pocket tool that I stupidly decided to make out of titanium, but I' already got started on my filing jig to make my first knife. Before this, I was convinced there was no way I'd be able to make a consistent bevel.
Click to expand...

Make sure you get a double cut file! :)
 
Large, double cut bastard file, check. Just need to round off the edges.

For the plunge line stop I'm thinking of dropping a carbide drill rod into a bearing so it doesn't wear down when the file hits it, and I'm thinking by spinning instead of providing resistance it'll give a smoother plunge line. I suppose I could do it with a screw too but the drill rod should be pretty true.
 
My problem was that the screw slowly bent so the plunge line moved. I'm just going to clamp a piece of bar stock on top of the knife to use as a guide.
 
Feezle said:
My problem was that the screw slowly bent so the plunge line moved. I'm just going to clamp a piece of bar stock on top of the knife to use as a guide.
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Go with a bigger screw. A lag screw. It will be easier than a bar.
 
ThaFlash_LA said:
Large, double cut bastard file, check. Just need to round off the edges.

For the plunge line stop I'm thinking of dropping a carbide drill rod into a bearing so it doesn't wear down when the file hits it, and I'm thinking by spinning instead of providing resistance it'll give a smoother plunge line. I suppose I could do it with a screw too but the drill rod should be pretty true.
Click to expand...
I have and use two file , one for one side of knive . They have one side without teeth ......
TyhXx8R.jpg

To get smooth , symmetrical plunge line and all grind line from booth side ..when you flip blade to grind other side is most important to PLACE the blank in exactly the same position ...
 
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I have that part already, but I read that rounding that edge makes for an "easier" plunge. But steel is pretty cheap, I suppose practicing the form and alignment right now will pay off in the long run.

Thanks
 
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