Hollow knife rough forging

Hey all.

So here's the project I posted a picture of early. Working on the handle right now, think I have the general direction figured out, but this one was fun to "slap together". I had to shake off some "forging rust" since it's been a while since I've done a project, but getting the shape I wanted symmetrical for both blades was pretty challenging - It took me just as long straightening and aligning the blade than straightening and forging.

Overall though, it was a great way to spend a weekend, and I'm hoping the finished product turns out like I've pictured in my mind!

https://youtu.be/tMpw7SXaCnA

When I first watched this video the first thought crossed my mind was you were making a Damascus knife. Still can't get my head bent as to which purpose your knife will be used for.

Have you considered a patreon account for your tube account, I would consider joining, to support a fellow Canadian.

Damascus knives are knives made from Damascus steel. It is the technique used to make the steel that marks them as 'Damascus' rather than any other part of the knife design. Damascus knives can be identified by the wavy, mottled pattern than runs through the blade

https://i.postimg.cc/Wz3qmxdM/damr.jpg

I've done "damascus" billets before using chains (pretty neat patterns), but they really don't speak to me. I like a clean steel look. I've seen a pattern using ball bearings that I'm thinking of giving a shot for an axe head eventually, but that one's in the "Once I build an air hammer" pile :D

I don't think anyone could possibly have a use for a 12 inch knife, this is just for fun: I like forging stuff I think will be a fun process or look neat afterwards. I mean, unless I suddenly find myself in the middle ages needing to shank a Dane. One of my local friends makes pirate hooks. Friggen awesome looking things...on his wall....in his basement :P

And that's the first time I hear of that Patreon. Will give it a look see and see what it's all about.

I'd like to dig into the practicality and use theme a little bit more as well!

What does everyone consider practical for a longer blade? (12" inches?)

Been having some discussions today with collectors and smiths on this topic.

Some consider "combat performance", some consider shape, some consider endurance test - I had one argument that the Kopesh was the most practical blade out there for both its ability to be used "in the bush" and as a combat weapon.

So any blade collectors or smiths out there, what are you opinions, and are these collectors out there who gather blades solely based on their looks? (like myself)

Quote:

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Originally Posted by WhiteSquirrel

I'd like to dig into the practicality and use theme a little bit more as well!

What does everyone consider practical for a longer blade? (12" inches?)

Been having some discussions today with collectors and smiths on this topic.

Some consider "combat performance", some consider shape, some consider endurance test - I had one argument that the Kopesh was the most practical blade out there for both its ability to be used "in the bush" and as a combat weapon.

So any blade collectors or smiths out there, what are you opinions, and are these collectors out there who gather blades solely based on their looks? (like myself)

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yea we own a blade or two.

https://i.postimg.cc/htnp69tr/blades.jpg

Watch "Forged in Fire for ideas and techniques.... https://www.history.com/shows/forged-in-fire

That's a whole lot of blade forging. Going to have to bump up the internets to watch some of those.