newb needs some help

[beochie]

first off this site, and you guys are awsome. I didnt know knife building was such a big thing. I've never done any metal work in the past but I started making my first knife last night, I have a bench grinder,files,clamps. I would like to know what is a good way to make the edge is? every vid I see it looks like they just do it free hand on a belt sander(I dont have one) so how do you do it? how do you keep the center centered and the grind lines strait? what equipment can I buy(within reason) to make this more enjoyable? I allready am having a blast its just taking me forever and my "knife" looks like a joke. any help would be nice

 

[panch0]

Well first of all welcome to BF. If you read the newbie thread at the top you will find lots of good info. That being said, I do flat grinding by hand. I also use a 2x4 with one end sanded at a slight angle to do a flat grind that only goes up halfway. I need to use it because my grinder goes lightning fast only and it is hard to control. Hope this helps.
-frank

 

[Keith_H]

Welcome! I filed my first and second knives, the second should be back from heat treat soon, here is how I filed it http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=575520

Draw filing is also a good way to go, It works best with single cut mill files, there is links about draw filing in the sticky.

 

[DustinHall]

I'm a newb too but, you can make your bevels on the bench grinder if you try really hard. Hand filing is another option without buying any expensive power tools. I use a handheld belt sander clamped in a vise.

 

[Barkes Knife Shop]

Read the newbie thread at the top and ask question like you are doing. There are a lot of makers on here with all kinds of good infor to read. Also, many have website's to check out and have tours on there sites and that can be of help to see how other's setup there shops. And I also want to welcome you to BF. :thumbup:

Terry