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Western 49 carbon blade modification info

L

Loosearrow

Joined
Apr 14, 2008
Messages
1,810
I have been using an old Western 49 carbon blade for a large chopper with some success. I like the type of steel that is in the knife. Easy to sharpen and it seems to hold an edge fairly well. The guard is somewhat large and I had been thinking about doing a modification. Today I came across another old 49 for 30.00 and thought about a modification again since I have two now. I have heard of a modification by Bagwell, I believe, but I have never seen a picture or an accurate description of the blade. Shortening the guard and a change to the blade configuration. Any help out there? Anyone have any comments on the W49 for a bush blade? The knife came without a sheath and some ideas for one would be appreciated. Thanks, Loosearrow
 
Just the standard 49 bowie, looks like it may have had some rust on it and someone tried to smooth it out. I will more than likely blue the blade to help with future rust problems. It's dark outside right now to take some pictures. I just finished reading through the 145 posts on Camilius site with little information.
 
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The Bagwell configuration might be in his book. These were popular in the 80's for custom work, all were very similar.

The most common was chopping the guard down to a oval shape or a Cold Steel Bowieish shape. Some top guards were chopped down flush with the handle and the bottom guard semi shortened(chopped at the bend).

Next, the clip was sharpened.

Then the handle was rounded a bit.

Finally, the sheath was replaced.
 
I modified a guard and handle on mine but not the blade. I think it is a great all around survival blade.
Scott
 

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