ReGrinding a Finished Blade?

M

molinee

Joined
Nov 9, 2002
Messages
84
I know this is really basic stuff for most of you all here, but not to me. I have some fixed blade hunting knifes that I want to "reshape the configuration as well as shorten" the blade. Should I just go ahead and grind the blade to shape and then clean it up or do I need to heat the blade first to soften it and/or temper the blade when I'm done?
I have both a bench grinder as well as a stationary bench belt sander... which one would be easier? If I do have to temper it, would a propane torch be adequate? Sorry if this is spelled out somewhere... couldn't find it.
-Thanks
 
A belt sander will work, but you need to do the work with bare hands so you can feel the heat in the blade. Keep a 5 gallon bucket of water under it (or right next to it) and dunk the blade often to keep it cool.

It helps to have ceramic belts, but not knowing the size of your sander, it's hard to say if you could find them for it.

A bench grinder is harder to control, and will require a lot more fiddling to get a smooth grind.

-Nick-
http://www.wheelerknives.com
 
Nick... thanks for the reply. I have a 4" x 36" belt sander that is almost new. So, Are you saying that I should be able to remove.... say an inch of blade or so (shorten the length) without having to harden it again "If I can keep the blade from getting too hot?" Is this possible for craftsmen who know what they are doing? And if I end up with some blue edges does that mean I messed up and would have to reheat? And if I don't reheat the blade, how does this affect the blade?
-Thanks for the lesson!
ps.... Checked out your homepage.... Nice Knives!!!
 
If it gets above 400F it will de-temper the blade.That means you will have to disassemble the knife and re-harden the blade,and re-temper.You can do it in the hardened state if you keep the blade cool.Like Nick said,do it bare handed-and when it feels hot dunk it in the water bucket.If it is possible to disassemble the knife it would be best,if not,tape the handle with several layers of electrical tape,and put a layer or two of duct tape over that.That way you won't ruin the handle.If you have to re-do the HT,it would be best to get someone to do it for you who has some experience,since you may not know the exact metal specs.If it is stainless steel,your only good option is to do it in the hardened state.
Stacy
 
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