Via:Rasp Cleaver Update Via: https://www.facebook.com/UltimateBlade/photos/a.225867007775247.1073741828.225864121108869/334231946938752/?type=3&theatre Via: From File to Knife (with Simple Tools): 9 Steps (with Pictures)
And they make great knives, too. I have a forum buddy who does this..DT Custom Knives are handmade from high carbon steel sawblades, nicholson files, o1 and stainless steel.
I wish I had the knowledge, equipment, and place to do that. I've got a knife made from a railroad spike, the head of the spike is the butt of the knife, the shaft is twisted and the point is flattened and edged. It actually fits nicely in your hand.
Those are beautiful! True art! I have a pair of Nicholson farriers rasps from my grandpa's farm! They are huge and very old! I'm talkin big azzed Bowie knives! Interestingly this thread prompted me to some Utubes on grinding knives from files without a forge!
I've played with it a bit when I was younger after reading that many of the UDT members started having custom knifes made from files by certain machinist mates on board ship during WWII. My efforts pail in comparison to the above examples. Some really beautiful work.
A bit off topic but, this pair of spurs was made from a farrier's rasp and are my very favorite pair. Notice the inlay of German Silver in the second photo.
Nice work....and the spurs aren't much of a deviation....I don't think I'd like my rugged good looks marred by rowell marks from those spurs. It looks like rasp spurs have a bit of a following. Via: Hand Made Rasp Spurs & Horse Shoe Spurs for sale. - Tack and Items For Sale Back on topic.... Via: Examples of Tomahawks...Pics
Thank you, more proof that the beauty and usability of most tools is created by the skill of the craftsman and not the materials he may have at hand to use.
I think a bit of imagination and curiosity comes into the equation too; but yes, quite a bit of skill and perseverance is required also.
Would that I could, Gator, but having only 20hrs of metal work at year7 high school, and even then barely being able to solder an ashtray satisfactorily, these projects are way beyond my capability, but I am in awe and respect of those who can . I admire the beauty and functionality of artefacts wrought by true artisans, and just wanted to bring them to fellow monkeys who would appreciate the art and skill of the blacksmiths' work. I was not disappointed.
Once things get settled down from opening the shop, this is basically going to be my plan for getting good knife steel. Lot of files pawned in my AO. Gonna go around one morning with a bucket and be stocked up for a long time.
I'm building a 2 story workshop 12'x12'. I'm putting a foundry, anvil, welding, and other metalworking supplies. Can't wait to get started on making my own knives.