Three Amigos and the Street Fighter

[P. McKinley]

Two weeks ago I was asked to make five knives for a Cape Breton University Theater production. The play is set in 1940's Cuba. I was sent several photos and told to use my imagination on three large military knives and a pair of smaller fighters. All blades were made of mild steel with blunted points, 1/8" thick rounded edges, and forced aged finish. I used some crappy scrap leather and skipped-stitched the sheaths. I otherwise constructed all of these as I would a "real" knife, but then distressed and aged them.... they're supposed to look old and beat to hell. I still have two retention strap snaps to fasten.

This is what I came up with:

KA-BAResque Fighter
Blade: 8 1/4" x 1 1/2" mild steel w/ forced patina
Handle: Distressed Oak
Sheath: Various weights of scrap leather

Bayonet
Blade: 9 1/2" x 1 1/2" mild steel w/ forced patina
Handle: End grain Oak stained brown w/ buffed carnuaba wax finish
Sheath: Canvas encased wood w/ leather tip and belt loop

Slim Dagger
Blade: 8" x 1 1/2" mild steel w/ forced patina
Handle: Walnut stained dark brown w/ light buffing
Sheath: Various weights of scrap leather

Pair of Fighters
Blades: 6 1/4" x 1 1/2" mild steel
Handle: Cherry w/ buffed carnauba wax finish
Sheaths: Various weights of scrap leather (These are designed to be slung under each shoulder)

 

[Kohai999]

They look really good.....and convincing as sharpened, real knives!

Best Regards,

STeven Garsson

 

[paperairplane]

I like the 'gladius' fighter... seems like a very fun project.

 

[P. McKinley]

Thanks folks. It was both fun and liberating in a odd way.