Two more forged blades from Nicaragua

Joined
Jul 2, 2009
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378
Here are couple knives I've done recently. My favorite part of bladesmithing is the forging and I suppose that is why I enjoy seeing the work of my hammer even when the piece is finished. The bowie style blade is the first one I've ever attempted. I also tried to put some texture in the blade but it wasn't as pronounced as I thought it would be. The other knife is a fighter style that I had fun forging out.

I always hesitate to post my work here because I see so much work that is far better than what I have to offer. The opinions of you fine people are very helpful so I humbly ask you to tell me your thoughts on these two pieces.

Thanks for looking!
Mike
 

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Mike, in my humble opinion those are very nice in every respect! You should be very proud!

Steve
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Potomac Forge
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IN GOD WE TRUST
 
I agree. I like the forge finish and the handles look well thought out and very comfortable -- well done!
 
Very nice looking knives. I like the forge marks myself and the handles do look well thought out and comfortable.

I'm curious what the blade steel is and also the materials used in the handles and guards. What size too?

Thanks for showing them here.
 
Hey Mike please don't hesitate posting your work here : those knives are looking great !
I really dig the first one. Could you please let us know its specs ?
Thanks ;)
 
Blades with forge marks aren't my favorites, but that "textured" bowie is VERY nice.

Thanks for posting it.

Peter
 
Mike you done nailed that bowie.:thumbup::cool:
 
Thank you for all the encouragement. I have really been trying to concentrate on putting purpose to each controur of my handles. It is far more difficult that I thought it would be! Little by little I'm hoping to have some sort of mental formula to make a very comfortable handle.

The bowie handle is made from a sort of Micarta (tan in color)that I found here. They don't call it Micarta but it is very similar. The fighter handle is made from an indigenous wood that is called "guapinol". I appreciate the compliments on the handles. I must confess that I'm always trying to make my handles feel like Jason Knights feel when I hold them. I haven't got that feeling yet but I'm working on it.

I will do another post soon with the blade specs.

Again, your comments and thoughts are invaluable!
Thank you,
Mike
 
Thanks Lorien. I've enjoyed your field report of the knives you've had made. I hope to do some reporting of my own on these blades when I get some time. I also liked your SMC a lot.
 
Here are the knife specs:
Bowie: 8 1/4 x 1 5/8 x 5/16 OAL- 13"

Fighter: 6 3/4 x 1 1/2 x 5/16 (starts as such near guard but tapers all the way to the tip). OAL 11 1/4"

Thanks again for looking! I get much inspiration from you fine folks.
Mike
 
Those are awesome Mike! I see a little Knight/Foster-ISH influence there (which is always a good thing! :D)

The first one is my favorite! :thumbup: :cool:
 
Thanks Nick for the compliment and encouraging words. Jason and Burt have been big influences in my bladesmithing. They ALWAYS take time to help me in any way they can with advice or critiques. I spend a lot of time admiring their work.

I've seen some of your work as well. I especially like the Fikes Camp Knife on your website! Sweet!
Mike
 
Thanks Lorien. I've enjoyed your field report of the knives you've had made. I hope to do some reporting of my own on these blades when I get some time. I also liked your SMC a lot.

I've really enjoyed watching your work evolve as well. You really have a great attitude, and are obviously very grateful still for finding this calling.
Keep up the good work:thumbup::thumbup::thumbup:
:)
 
Really like the Palm swells(?) in the handles. VERY functional for guys like me with big ol bearpaws! I've done a lot of very hard use blade time and both your knives look great! Really like the fighter!

Much respect!
Gabriel
 
Thanks Gabriel,
Like you I have bigger hands. Sometimes having some contours really gives my hands something to grip. My goal is to be able to pick up one of my knives and have it "stay" in my hand with little or no force. I don't know if I've nailed it yet but the handles are feeling better every time.
I really appreciate your compliments! Thanks for the encouraging words.
Mike
 
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