Working on my first knife.

J

JSCHAMEL

Joined
Jun 25, 2014
Messages
4
I am new to knife making and I have decided to use only hand tools for my first build. It has been along time since I've worked with a hacksaw and files so I'm trying my best. I want to do this build this way so I can really work on my mechanics. I was wondering if any one knows of a good instructional on the different filing techniques used in knife making? I have attached some pics of my progress. Let me know what you guys think and feel free to throw me some pointers. Also I would like to start filing the grind and would like to know if anyone has a good jig set up for this? Thanks for your time!









 
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If you didnt have the last picture, I would be really struggling to figure out which end was the handle
 
Yeah I could see how you could get confused. I'm going for a tactical tanto style blade.
 
I'm guessing its a no no on this forum to use the word tactical? Sorry about that If anyone has any productive comments it would be greatly appreciated.
 
Tactical isn't necessarily a no no but like lastbrunneng said it's a bit of a buzz word and unless you're on a SWAT team on your day job or are a active military you're probably not going to get very tactical in your application of it.

That said without a drawing at least of what you intend to have this knife look like it's hard for us to see what your mind sees. Personally I think the blade is too wide for a tanto . Again without any background on what you're looking for it to be we don't have much to work with. I'm assuming you're going to go for a chisel grind on it?
 
I think what people are getting at is it is an awkward design with an unclear intended use. I'm not trying to be insulting, just offering observations. Smooth arching lines flow well, and there is a reason traditional knives look the way they do, because they are effective and efficient. On the other hand, one of the fun parts of making knives is to take what's in your head and turn it into reality. If this is really what you want, then make it. It just won't cut very well, or be easy to use. I'm not trying to be discouraging. I have a friend who comes up with all sorts of "tactical" designs, but now carries a 1/16" traditional blade and loves the actual cutting performance of the knife. The most important part of this is have fun and enjoy yourself.
 
I have a couple of suggestions. First of all a tanto is not an easy grind for a first knife. You could still salvage your blank and turn it into a nice drop point. Also, the point above your finger choil should be rounded off. The spine should have a curved flow from the handle to the blade. Also that point at the butt of your handle should be rounded to look smoother. Curves are sexy on a knife, the same as a woman.

Aaron gough (a member here) has instructions for a file jig. If you google it you will find it. Best of luck.
 
J, not something a lot of people would make but don't let that stop you.

Re using files, an effective way of removing a lot of material is to use two heavy cut files. One with a square cross section about 1/2 X 1/2" and the second a broad flat file around an inch wide.

Use the half by half file to file gullets about 1/2' apart, after that take the flat file and take off the high spots in between the gullets. Smooth off the bevels by draw filing with a finer flat file and finally finish off with wet and dry.

Good luck with your build.
 
JSCHAMEL,

I'm sorry if you took offense at my question. There was nothing nasty about it. It's a simple question. I wasn't criticizing your design or discouraging you from building it. But like has been said, "tactical" is a buzz word. I was curious what specific design elements make it suitable for that application. Cool for cool's sake is fine. "I just like it" is a fine reason too. But "tactical" suggests a workhorse design intended for specific types of work and used by folks who are very particular about their gear. I was just curious what your thoughts were about your intended design.


Here is Aaron's video about his filing jig:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9iNDRwwBQQ
 
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The handle shape isn't finished, the blade is a bit too high/fat but the overall design is pretty cool I think! It does need some more curves though. The can be very slight to not take away from the blocky "tacticool" shape.
 
Welcome JS. The guys here are all just trying to help. Don't take it too serious.

I have made a lot of tanto. The biggest issue on that one seems to be the blade size. I would suggest bringing the edge up almost half of the front part of the finger groove. Leave the handle as-is. This will make the blade thinner and more balanced optically.

What are your handle plans?
 
I don't know a thing about making a knife but your design is interesting. I would love to watch your progress as these guys help guide you to completion.

And your hands aren't all beat up - so I say you're doing great!
 
Thank for all of the tips guys there were a lot of helpful suggestions. I had a chance to Handel the blank for a few days an tend to agree with the thoughts of the blade being a little to clunky. I think I will try to taper the point down with some file work and maybe do a false grind to cut some of the weight from the point of the blade? But this is all still up in the air. I am currently working on making the filing jig mentioned above I believe it is Aaron Goughs design. But I am currently looking for a good file for this set up. What files are you guys using? Could someone throw up a link it would help a lot I'm still kinda flustered by all the file options. My shop is quit small and my tool selection is slim. I currently have a set of Nicholson files I've been using but I don't want to tie one up on my jig I'd rather just buy one specifically for the jig. Thanks for the help guys I'm having a great time working on this project I can see how addictive this could start being! Just wish I had some more free time to work it.
 
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