Where to begin?

[Rogue]

I want to begin making knives. What would be a good starting point? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[BCK]

Probably the best thing to do would be to pick up a kit knife & give that a try. They are available from just about all of the knife supply houses. This will give you a feel for assembly, fitting, pinning, glueing, sanding, etc. Then you get to make a sheath.

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[Matt Janiga]

I would first get some books on knifemaking, and read them before you try to construct a knife, even a kit knife. Undoubtedly, you will learn numerous techniques that will help you with your first knife.

I recommend Hrisoulas' books: The Complete Bladesmith, and his others. They will definitely help.

Matt Janiga

 

[Chiro75]

I agree with starting with a couple kits. All the big mailorder places have them, although I'm not sure of their quality. A lot of custom makers will make kit blades, too, and it seems the going rate is around $50 for a complete kit (these are also good knives, so they are worth the work). I've found that even if the maker doesn't advertise any kits, they will usually sell an unfinished blade and all the stuff to you. If you want to see what is involved in a kit, I would refer you to my website, which is nearly completed. Click on the link to the Synopsis/Tutorial. It is fairly complete. YOu can see my pics and get a link to the tutorial from <a href = "http://www.geocities.com/CollegePark/Lab/1298/cetan.html"> here</a>. I would also recommend finding a copy of Loveless' book "How to Make Knives". It is really well done, and goes for $14 just about anywhere.