Suggestions for a newbie

[slideways]

Well it appears that just collecting isn't enough for me. Now I want to add a personal touch to my knives. I've purchased several sharpening systems, stones and rods. After much practice I can sharpen anything I own a number of different ways. Now I've been reading about finishing and collected catologs from most of the supply houses. I've even ordered a couple of hundred bucks worth of stuff to get started (hey it's cheaper then a new knife). So, why am I telling you all this? I'm looking for help to shorten the old learning curve. Books? Past articles? Any help? There is a fellow in FL whose user name is Bandityo, I think, who is doing the sorts of things I'd like to do. He polishes blades and makes replacement scales for production stuff. Making replacement scales is the area I'm not too certain of. What tools etc.? I was a machinist for many years and this sort of thing speaks to both the mechanic and the artist in me.
Thanks.

 

[dhannon]

I don't know about that brochure collection, but if you want to get into the replacement or repair, I suggest you read the How To Make Knives books and learn the whole story. Krause publications has a listing of many of the how to books including the fixed blades, forged blades and folding blades. (krause.com)

Dan
Hannon Bearpaw Knives
http://home.nfolink.com/~dhannon/index.htm

 

[Chiro75]

This is one of those things you learn by doing. I would get together some cheap knives, replace the handles and stuff, and see what works. You don't want your first projects to be on anything too nice, because you will screw up, guaranteed. For customizing stock knives, a good background in making knives is recommended, of course. Ever since I started making a few of my own knives I look at pictures and say "Shoot...I could make THAT!" It's addicting, even for someone like me with hardly any tools, time or talent!

Expect to make a few mistakes, work on garbage at first, and just see what works and what doesn't.

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Steve Agocs, D.C.
http://www.geocities.com/Chiro75/frames.html


agocs_s@hotmail.com

 

[Jerry Hossom]

I'd suggest you visit with a knifemaker. There are many great ones in CA. Get a copy of Knives 2001, look up the CA makers and give one or two a call. That is easily the fastest way to get going. Don't wear them out and you might offer to do a little sweeping in exchange for knowledge, but that is easier than doing it the hard way. I know!

Good luck. You are embarking on a fantastic voyage.

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Jerry Hossom
www.hossom.com
The New Tom & Jerry Show