Craig, if it is easier and less expense I can work off of a paper pattern just fine. You doing this is very kind and generous. I want to express my thanks.

Chris

Ditto what Chris said. Maybe just email use the info? We're in your hands though. So don't let us tell you how to teach us. You're our master. <img src=' http://www.americanbladesmith.com/ipboard/public/style_emoticons//smile.gi f' class='bbc_emoticon' alt=':)' /> Many thanks indeed!

I have the patterns finished and will get them in the mail today or tomorrow. I will be using 3/32 stock for this knife most likely CPM-154 but any good knife steel will work. For those who do not have a surface grinder it may help to use precision ground stock. The patterns are not exact just a ball park to get started and get things heat treated.

I know most work a day job and things may seem slow at times for some. Do we want to do everything in this thread or have everyone start their own thread? I will be using a disc grinder, horizontal grinder, KMG grinder, a surface grinder and a milling machine to make mine. We can make a shadow pattern style for those who cannot mill out liners or spot weld bolsters. What kind of tools will everyone be working with?

Perhaps start a new thread with everyone's work in progress shots and questions in it? Then when someone needs pointers or advice it will all be here. Many of us can learn a lot if it's all here, good, bad and ugly. I am not afraid to show my mistakes if someone can avoid the same mistake.

I had hoped to try integral Bolsters but I don't see why we all can't go about it how our tools and shop setup works best.

Chris

Craig, I will be using close to the same tools you will without the horizontal grinder, and I do not have any way to spot weld bolsters. But could solder them on or mill out integral ones if that will work. And I can see making jigs and fictures possible. Landon

Sounds good. I think everyone working with what they have will be the best. We have enough makers on the forum to work out any snags or problems that cone up. If need be some can send their parts to me for operations that they do not have the tools to complete. A small wheel attachment and some small wheels will get you by without a horizontal grinder. You may need to make a vertical tool rest that is 90 degrees to the wheel. That helps to keep the tang of the knife square.

I forgot to mention that my tools consist of an antique Wilton squarewheel 2x72 grinder and a Grizzly mill and an assortment of hand tools.

Chris

I just have a home made 2x27 grinder with a flat platen forge drill press and hand tools

I'll be using a belt and disc grinder on mine. I can spot weld the bolsters and have a Cnc mill I can use but I will probably try to do it without.

The post office said the patterns will be there on Saturday..... So go stand by the mail box.

Craig

Craig,

I have a Bader with small wheel attachment, paragon with HT foil and a surface plate, I have access to a surface grinder and mill at work. Any suggestion on making a vertical tool rest for the small wheel attachment? Thanks for everything you are doing.

Steve Seib

You can make something like this to attach to the arm on your Bader.

Or you can modify a spare flat platen like this,

And change the tang shape to be like the lower one.

This modification will also let you get by without a disc for cleaning up the notch.

Will be on the lookout for your mail. THANKS!

I've got a pretty rustic shop set up for basic high school metalsmithing classes. Forges, a heattreat oven, a couple of two-wheel grinders, flexshaft and handwork tools. Will do what I can.

Craig, will you be using the same CPM-154 for the back spring also?

Yes I will Rick.