Thrower pics wanted

R

RobertHankins

Joined
Jun 10, 2001
Messages
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Where can I get some good pics of throwing knives or spikes?
Maybe some tips on RC hardness HT specs Etc...
I am a maker and getting interested in starting throwing.
Thanks!
 
Not ignoring you...just haven't had a chance to get pics posted...should get some this weekend!

As for the info part, I think you're looking for a lower Rockwell, around 48-49? My spikes, which I'll post later, are basically just untreated barstock or nails. They may take a curve, but I've never broken one. The spikes, themselves, have never even taken more than a slight curve (maybe 5 degrees over the total length).

Finish is rough, since they're meant to be used. The more "knife-like" throwers I have probably have a higher HT on them, but remember, you don't really have to keep an edge--if you're throwing handle-first, this is a distinct liability, in fact!

Well, that's my two coppers, I'll post some pics for you later, Robert. Just didn't want you to think we's bein' un-neighbourly!!!

;)
 
Hey thanks Kal!

I am really looking for some cool designs I can make in 5160 and draw back a soft spine Etc.

I really want to make something that is practiacl to carry for Defence and Offence;)
 
I might suggest to try and create something original that you vizualize in your minds eye. It's not exaclty rocket science (although I could be wrong). Maybe something that you think would work good. Make a wooden or cardboard mock up. Get out the old cutting torch and bandsaw. Balance might be an issue. You can lighten it by drilling or use washers for weight. Keep us posted.
 
I think it'd be nice to see what you come up with from your own designs and tests. Unfortunately, I can't provide any pics, but I would think you would be able to see some nice throwing knives at shows or just by doing some searches on the internet. Can't wait to see what you come up with.
 
Really what I am asking for guys is pics of either your stuff or sites with a bunch of pics so I can create new designs.

Question?
Where should the point of balance be?
Is 3/16 or 1/4" thick material better?
What should it Rockwell out at?
Is 5160 or 1095 better?????????????
I plan to make them 8" to 10" OAL

Help is appreciated.......................
 
Personal preference 3/16 throws better than 1/4 since it is not as heavy. 8 inches is kind of short, but my wife prefers 8 inch throwers and I use longer ones.
Rockwell mild low fifties high fourtys (just a guess; you don't want to crack the blades when they vibrate). I noticed all the cheap throwers we have are easy to work with a file when the points need attention.
 
I'd say 1/4" is a bit thick for a throwing knife, and I'd go with something closer to 10" than 8", but it's a matter of preference. I'd say that the point of balance should be in the middle third of the knife, close the the halfway point but still towards the blade or handle a little, depending on whether the knife is designed more for blade or handle throws. Hope this helps.
 
Thanks guys that helps a little.
Point of balance dead center for throwing blade and handle?
OR
Towards the blade for a blade thrower?
Towards the handle for a handle thrower?
Just need to clarify before I start cutting up some steel.

I did the Ebay thing last night for designs.
Nothing impressive...
There has got to be some really unique designs out there somewhere:rolleyes: just to get ideas from!

I want something capable of doing some real damage , that looks COOL and is practical to carry and throw!!!

Sound like a knifemaker Huh.
 
Maybe there's no really unique designs out there because you're destined to create the first.:) I'd say you can't go wrong with weighting it in the center. I just said that part about the weight being a little off center because I've always heard from those more experienced than me that you should hold the lighter side of the knife. I prefer throwing by blade, so that's pretty much all I do, regardless of the weighting. The more important thing to me is the shape, it's hard to throw a flared blade with a blade grip and a parrot's beak handle with a handle grip. Good luck with your proto.
 
Robert,

You can find some pics of throwers at the Sticking Point webpage. Just click on the History button and follow the Museum link. This is some photos from Bobby Branton's collection.

If you are looking for 'Unique and Cool' then try your hand at a "folding thrower". NOBODY has done this in an effective and practical manner, NOBODY.

Suggestions for a folding thrower:

1. Eight inches long when folded
2. 14 inches long when opened
3. Blade symetrical in design
4. Probably a sidelock mechanism to secure the blade when open would be most durable.
5. No more than 16 ounces in weight

Do this effectively and you will have a paying audience.
 
I would love to see a bali thrower, but creating one would not be an easy task at all. What if you made a folding throwing knife where you remove the blade from the folder and only throw the blade as the whole throwing knife... of course, then it would basically be a fixed blade with a unique sheath. Also, there's some pics of throwers at http://www.throwzini.com and there's even a page of unusual throwers there.
 
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