Well - I gave knifemaking a try.

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Mar 19, 2007
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I have made two versions of the Arete on my own recently and thought I would post a few pictures here. The design is based on the Arete with a few changes (I hope Andy doesn't mind ;) ).

My first attempt was a 3/16" thick stock removal blade (I used a hacksaw and files and then ended up cleaning it all up on a grinder due to some assistance by a local knife maker). Full flat grind with a 25 degree inclusive double bevel and brass pins. The handle has homemade micarta liners and micarta scales.

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My second blade had the same outline and used 1/8th inch stock, flat ground, 25 degree secondary bevel, and brass fittings. Handle has homemade micarta liners (canvas) with rosewood scales.

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It was a lot of fun. I am sure I will make a few more knives in my day - but Andy does not need to worry about any competition from me any time soon.


Thanks for looking.

TF
 
Very nice work, very good basic design to start off with. I hope my second knife turns out as good as your first one it has a very similar design.
 
Beautiful!! I really like the 1/8" version.

Trying it yourself does provide a new perspective and appreciation for Andy's talent, doesn't it?
 
Those look sweet Tal. Nice work! I like the homemade micarta.
 
Beautiful!! I really like the 1/8" version.

Trying it yourself does provide a new perspective and appreciation for Andy's talent, doesn't it?

There are many things I learned - but the one I thought of concerning Andy is his laminates. If you don't have that ABSOLUTELY flat - and the right Epoxy - and the right clamping... well.... no bueno.

Seeing Andy's multiple laminates - the holes - and the chamfering - well. No thanks. ;) I will let him make the awesome handles.

TF
 
Did you do the grinder work or did your friend help you? In teaching a few people, I have found that getting a nice even grind like that is very challenging until you develop muscle memory with the grinder. (Which takes time and practice)
 
Paul. The friend was Stan. I did the grinder work. He was right there with me telling me what to do. I think I was getting the hang of it by the end of the second blade. I learned a lot and was very happy to have his assistance and help. Great guy. I want to get back out there soon and hang out.

I agree on the muscle memory. I find that using files gives me more control (meaning - I can't screw it up so fast) and the learning curve with the grinder can and will end with some jacked up blanks and wasted belts - but once you become competent - I think it is SO much faster and consistent.

What is crazy is that I would start with a flat platen, rest, and jig - and then you watch a guy like Stan who just freehands the whole thing - and gets a BETTER looking product.


TF
 
Looking good - that second one is a noticeably more refined product than the first. Well done.
 
Thanks Chainring. They are not quite the Zombie slayers you make - but I guess someone has to filet the fish while you protect us from the apocalypse! ;)

TF
 
They look very nice:thumbup: Prefer a bit bigger pins (purely for looks;)) myself
 
I had the opportunity to teach a class and did a lot of up close direction. I was leaning over looking at the point where the blade contacted the platten and would give instant feedback when they got off. I was pleased with the results we were able to get from a first try at the grinder.

I have never been a fan of jigs. You could use one to do a Scandi but for the subtleties of a knife point to work out, I think you are much better off just doing it by hand.
 
Those are nice TF. It seems you are going the way of a thin full flat grind with an acute secondary? It seems that you prefer a contoured handle ("coke bottle" rather than a "barrel" shape). Why do you think this is advantages? I am still debating this with myself, any imput appreciated!
 
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