A knife blank is a raw piece of metal that you can shape into a blade. They can be purchased at knife shops, forged by a blacksmith or cut out by waterjet cutters, and are a good way to get started making knives. They can also be found in a wide variety of sizes and styles at garage sales, rummage sales, and swap meets.
To make a knife from a blank, you’ll need the following materials: steel for the blade and wood for the handle. You’ll also need tools that can help you make a perfect knife.
Depending on your skill level, you can use one of several different types of metal for the blade. Carbon steel is a popular choice for beginners because it is dependable and yields a strong, attractive finish. If you’re an advanced knife maker, you might choose a steel alloy that requires more skilled craftsmanship to forge.
You can also buy a blank in a kit, which comes with the knife blade already sharpened and ready for you to customize with your own handle and bolsters. This is a great option if you’re looking for a beginner’s knife, or if you want to make a knife as a gift or for yourself as a hobby.
Once you have the materials, it’s time to get to work! First, you’ll need to chisel out the outline of your blade. It’s a good idea to do this with a chisel and a piece of chalk, which will give you a solid line to work with. This step should take you some time, but it will save you a lot of frustration in the long run.
Next, you’ll need to shave off the excess material from your blade. This is where an angle grinder comes in handy — it can help you cut your blade down faster and more precisely than a hacksaw. You can also try a band saw, but it’s a little more expensive and will take up some room.
This step is important because it helps you to avoid making a knife that has too much metal or isn’t sturdy enough. You can also try a few heat treatments to soften the blade and bring out some of its natural color.
If you’re making a hunting or outdoor-themed knife, you might want to use a specialized stainless steel. This type of steel is hardened at a lower temperature than carbon steel, so it won’t be as brittle and can help you to achieve a smoother edge.
You can also sand the edges of the knife blade to create a more polished appearance and reduce any roughness. This is especially necessary if you’re planning on using a hard leather sheath with the knife.
It’s also a good idea to test the edge of your knife by cutting a piece of paper with it. If it tears easily, you’ll need to sharpen the blade again with a steel or stone.