Knife making is an art that can be learned with a few basic shop tools and the desire to create something special. The two main methods for making a knife are stock removal or filing and grinding; and bladesmithing, also called forging.
The first step in making a homemade knife is shaping the blank. This can be done with a variety of hand and power tools.
Blade
Using hand tools, you can create a blade for your knife that’s as durable and reliable as the steel used to make it. The process takes a little more time than the forging and oven techniques used by professional knife makers, but it’s worth it for the quality of results you can achieve.
Start by screwing down a rough-sawn blank and mark it with the blade side’s “plunge” line and a centerline on the bottom edge. Then file the blank to shape with a bastard mill file.
Once the blade has been shaped, Michael says he’ll heat-treat and temper it in his kitchen oven to a hardness that makes it tough but still manageable. He’ll also use peanut oil to quench it to help it normalize.
Once the blade has been tempered, it’s time to sharpen it. The best way to do this is to use a ball peen hammer that’s designed for this type of work. It will be gentler and more precise than a regular hammer, allowing you to achieve the high levels of precision necessary for making your knife.
Handle
Handles are an important part of any knife, ensuring a comfortable grip and long-lasting use. They are also a great way to customize the blade and give it a unique look.
A handle can be made from a variety of materials. Some of the most common are wood and leather.
Another option is bone, which can add a rustic and eye-catching touch to any blade. Cow bones and giraffe bones are popular choices because they are easy to find and don’t cost much.
The type of material you choose to make your handle depends on what you expect from the finished product. Some people choose a more traditional style for their homemade knife, while others prefer a more creative and customized design.
Sheath
A knife sheath is a handy accessory for keeping your blade handy. It can also be used to hold a pocket watch, compass, or anything else that you may need at hand.
To make a sheath, you will need a variety of tools for cutting and marking leather, as well as binding it together. These include awls, round knives, and punches for customizing your sheath design, along with stitching needles and waxed thread.
Alternatively, you can purchase pre-made sheath patterns from leatherworking shops or online. These patterns provide a template for the leather and a guide to cutting.
You should also make a welt, an extra strip of leather that keeps the sharp edge of the knife away from the stitching and rivets. This strip should be cut from the original sheath pattern and be about 1/4 inch beyond the centerline.
After tracing the welt onto the leather, cut it out and glue it in place. When gluing, be sure to leave the welt wide on the outside of the sheath so that it will fit correctly when the sheath is glued together.
Hardware
If you’ve ever dreamed of making your own knife, it can be an incredibly rewarding and exciting hobby. You can build a knife that is unique to you and one that will last a lifetime.
When making a knife, it is important to have the necessary hardware. This can include a range of tools that will help you cut the blade, fasten it, sharpen it, and create a handle.
First, you should have a good hacksaw. This will allow you to remove a lot of excess stock quickly and easily so that you can shape your blade properly.
Next, you’ll need a set of files. These are essential for sanding down the rough areas of your knife after you’ve shaped it, which is the most effective way to get a smooth and crisp finish.
Another tool that is crucial for making knives is a work apron. This will keep your clothing and skin from getting stained or ruined by any of the tools you use.