Test knives

[Makermook]

I've read about testing knives for the ABS Journeyman and Master Smith qualifications. I'm most intrigued by the 90 degree bend part of the test.

From what I gather, the Journeyman's blade is generally homogeneous stock, and the blade for the Master's test is Damascus with a certain minimum number of layers.

Does the Journeyman's knife HAVE to be homogeneous? Could he (or she) make a laminated blade for the test knife? What I'm getting at is the fact that the blade needs to be able to hold a very good and long-lasting edge, but be supple enough in the body to keep from snapping in the bending part of the test. It seems to me that a laminated blade might well fulfill those criteria, but I've not run across mention of one being used by someone undergoing the ABS performance test.

Just curious.

 

[deker]

Performance or presentation, NO Damascus or lamination of any kind is allowed for JS testing. Not in the blade or guard. Nothing.

It used to be allowed for JS knives, but the story I've heard from a couple of MSs is that they were getting guys who would make knives out of damascus that wouldn't cut the mustard in presentation (inclusions in the steel, poor fit and finish, etc) and so they'd not pass them. Well, the responses were along the lines of "I made DAMASCUS, you HAVE to pass me!". So, they changed the rules to avoid any further issues. It's a shame really. I do 90% of my work in pattern welded steel because it's what I enjoy doing, and I'd never as for a pass on something that wasn't up to snuff just because I did something "special" elsewhere. I'd expect to be judged to the same standard regardless of what the materials were. I guess some folks don't see it my way though.

On a good note, the JS test being all monosteel allows for the judges to really get a good look at how you can finish a piece. It's easy to overlook a scratch or wave in a blade if the pattern of the steel is hiding it.

-d