Wanting to be a maker...

A

alelser

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Feb 26, 2001
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Hi everyone!

Don't let the "registered Feb 2001" fool you. I'm new (forgot I registered 'cause my computer died in soon after... long story).

Anyway, I really want to get into making knives. Someday I want to make my own carry knife from start to finish. That day is long off (I'm a starving student who can barely afford to collect), but I'd like to get a start on things now. Can anyone recommend some background reading to get started? I'm looking for a reference that will give me a good idea as to what it will take to eventually get started as a bladesmith (bladesmith... that just sounds so cool).

Thanks in advance,

-Al-
 
The best place I've ever found for info on knifemaking is here:

What? You already have that link? Then you've taken a big step in the right direction. :)

Seriously, use the search feature to find out about every aspect of knifemaking. I assure you nearly everything has been covered at some point.
 
Thanks for the notes so far...

That was cute Disco Stu.;) Yes, it seems I'm already familiar with that link, and I am trying to check out the postings and whatnot on Bladeforums.com, but one thing I'd really like is a book I can carry to work/school/toilet and read at my leisure. Anyone have a suggestion (other than printing out the latest postings -- sorry Stu, had to close that door before you got it).:cool:

Thanks again,

-Al-
 
Go to search,
Type in knifemaking books, and punch the thread "a good book on knifemaking" thats all you need to do.

Good luck
 
"A beginner and master class all in one. Boy, I miss Bob."

Ditto.
 
I started making knives this summer. It's really a lot of fun, but the tools can be expensive if you get into buying more power tools.

It may be cheaper to get started with stock removal by files first. Try this link:

http://www.knifeforums.com/ubb/Forum2/HTML/000032.html

Make sure you got a good file with sharp teeth, otherwise it'll take you many more hours to finish. When you buy drill bits, go with Ti-Ni coating or cobalt alloy. The high speed steel ones don't cut nearly as long for the money. You'll save money in the long run.
 
BTW, a good book is Loveless and Barney, "How to Make Knives." Photos are a little confusing sometimes (for me), but it's a very nice book.
 
Thanks to everyone who's posted to this thread! I've definately got some good starting points now, and maybe I'll even get started on a project soon...

Wish me luck,

-Al-
 
Read every book and Magazine you can get your hands on,Go to the book store or library,or even on line at Krause publications (thats about the best place to start...
Bruce
 
Get Bob Terzuola's book on the Tactical Linerlock Folder. It has the best pictures and descriptions on making that kind of folding knife. How to Make Folding Knives by Ron Lake is another titile that is supposed to be good. The videos by Alan Blade are good for learning about grinding and heat treating if you can find them. Definitely get catalogs from Texas Knifemaker's Supply and Koval Knives for supplies. Hang out here a lot.

There ya go!;)
 
Al, I don't have anything to add to what's gone before, so let me just suggest that -- You want to make your own carry knife?! Ha!

If you can accomplish that you're a more disciplined man than I am! :D If I ever get to carry one of my own knives I'll...man, I don't know what I'd do. That's just a situation experience has taught me is seriously unlikely. I've made crappy ugly knives I was sure no one would want just so I could keep em, and along comes an offer I just can't refuse... It'll happen to you too, you'll see. :cool:

Good luck, buddy! You're about to get hooked. Good thing they keep making steel.

Dave

PS -- If you're short of funds you'll end up using files and sandpaper to make your first knives, so take Chang's advice and get good files. Always buy the best tools you can, even sacrifice food if you have to -- it pays off. Also, don't succumb to the allure of buying a pre-ground blank to save work, because if you're really a knifemaker someone else's blade will never be -- well, yours. IMHO DL
 
Originally posted by RARanney
"A beginner and master class all in one. Boy, I miss Bob."

Ditto.
Click to expand...

Roger that! I also remember his encouraging sign-offs on his e-mails..."Hang in there!, Grind"

FWIW, get the Engnath catalog if you can find it..I still use the heck out of mine!!
 
You really should take a look at knife kits. Its not the same as making one thats"yours" but you will learn alot, and can gain experience without spending alot of money. It also offers a source of very serviceable knives at a low price. It will also help you decide what you want "yours" to be. I've made a few knives from kits. And I've made a few knives from scratch. Every last one of them has something I would change if I could. Part of thje challenge is making a better blade every time. If you get a few under your belt before you hit the grinder you'll have soem good ideas about what you think works and what doesn't.
 
I agree with Matt Shade. Try a kit knife first. You can finish it in a few days and you will learn a lot from it without feeling overwhelmed. After you get a little confidence with a kit, you can move on to making your own blades.
 
I would also go to the chat room, lot's of knowledge in there. Also living in Atlanta, if you haven't yet make sure you go to the Blade show next year. It's the beginning of June time frame and is pure knife nirvana! Biggest show of the year. ;)
 
after you do your reading, jump in and make something. You want to be a maker, then make.
"If it's worth doing, it's worth doing poorly."

don't be afraid to make mistakes

You won't understand what you have read untill your hands know
 
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