I have been making knives for several years. I have used everything from files to old cross cut saw blades to hacksaw blades. Every now and then I get lucky while at the local junkyard and find a piece that makes exceptional blades. Last summer, I found an old cross cut saw blade that must have been from the first half of the last centruy. It made strong blades with just a little flexibility that would sharpen up to a razor edge. They held their edge pretty well (not quite as long as a buck, but were sharpened differently). Most knives were set with antler handles. The few blades I made from files were strong but brittle (chipped) and consumed a lot of grinding wheel. I make mostly pelting/skinning knives and hunting knives. I am interested in hearing of any other experiences with blade making and what materials worked best. Also what you use for handles and how you mount them. Rider
- posted
17 years ago