Two Questions - One Tulwar Construction, One Kami Mark

Dave Rishar

Dave Rishar

Joined
Oct 25, 2004
Messages
3,178
I did some more etching with the chloride. I like it. I prefer the rust remover for a quick-and-dirty etch just to show the temper line but the ferric chloride gives a much nicer finish.

I spent some time on the Tulwar today and found some interesting things, not the least of which is the temper line itself. There are two sets of small marks, uniform in size and running more or less in a line, one set running down the centerline and one set along the edge. They eventually elongate and fade out right next to the tip. They appear to be nearly the same on both sides. The marks themselves look very similar to the engraving "dots" on the metal scabbards. Here are some pictures. (High res, feel free to zoom.)

Marks on centerline.
Centerline marks again from a different angle. Zooming in will make them easier to see.
Marks along the edge. They are a bit difficult to see; start at the bright reflection in the middle and look to either side of it.

Does anyone know what these are? I haven't seen them on anything else in my collection and I'm curious.

Speaking of curious, check out this temper line - kind of neat. It goes right up to the tip but is considerably thinner up there.

Second question, and one that's been nagging me for a bit so now's as good a time as any to ask: I can't identify the kami mark on my 20" Sirupati. I haven't been able to find it on the HI website - I'm guessing some of the more experienced forumites may know what it is.

Clicky.

Thanks in advance for any and all info.
 
That's the kami known as "!" some folks call him bang for some reason. I have an M43 by him. Good blade. He made some visually pleasing knives, haven't seen many from him in awhile.

I've seen the dots on several blades. Dunno what they are. I can't see it being there on purpose as it's not a common thing on any of the ones I have. Probably some form of curse. ;)
 
I think the dots are marks from the grinder. I see them fairly often when polishing a khukuri. It's like there's a big piece of grit on the wheel that digs deeper than the rest. Just a guess.

Steve
 
I concur with those who posted before me. The dots are from a grinder; the kami mark is "Bang" (named after the "!" symbol). Very nice pic of the temper line! Now that I've finally scored my kerambit, the Tarwar is next on the list. <drool!>
 
BruiseLeee said:
That's the kami known as "!" some folks call him bang for some reason. I
Click to expand...

bang is what you used to say for a Unix address, when you were quoting the exclamation mark
 
I sort of thought it was like "the artist formerly known as bang". Then he went to using a symbol "!". This would allow him to be eccentric at Birghorka.

Don't tell me where to but the cho. I'm an artist.
 
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