Tutorial: Basic knifemaking tool list

[narsil]

Quite a few people recently have asked what tools are needed to begin knifemaking, so here is my version. I hope it's helpful.

I'm also in the process of doing a basic stock removal full tang tutorial, using these tools, which should put it into a bit more focus. I'll try to post it as I go along over the next week or so.

Its aimed mainly at stock removal, forging requires a whole different set of kit and there are a lot more permutations depending on what you can get hold of. Similarly I haven't considered heat treating equipment, since there are so many different possible variations and its quite a complex subject in itself.

Part 1 (http://www.britishblades.com/forums/showthread.php?t=8673)

Part 2 (http://www.britishblades.com/forums/showthread.php?t=8749)

[narsil]

Introduction to knifemaking

Basic Tools

One of the most common questions is ‘what tools do I need to make a knife?’ There is no definitive answer to this question but here is my suggestion for a good, inexpensive starting kit. It is based on the stuff that I find I use all the time. Most of the suggestions are hand tools, I recommend that you invest in decent quality tools from a proper engineering supplier. I think that it's better to start off with hand tools and invest in power tools as you find you need them. Probably the only 'essential' power tool is a drill.

Safety note

Knife making is a potentially dangerous activity, which you undertake at your own risk. Use your common sense, asses the risks you expose yourself to and take care at all times.

If you are unsure you are advised to seek expert advice or tuition.


Metalworking

- Workbench with vise, pretty much essential
- Set of engineers files: 16” flat (coarse, 2nd cut and smooth), Set of 8” 2nd cut files of assorted shapes (round, half round, flat, warding, square, triangular). 10” coarse half-round.
- Power drill, ideally a pillar drill.
- Set of needle files.
- Scribe
- Steel ruler
- Centre punch
- Vernier callipers
- Small machinists square
- Large hacksaw frame and cobalt HSS blades
- Assorted grades of wet and dry paper eg 120, 300, 400, 600, 800, 1200
- Coarse bench stone
- Clamps, G-clamps or vise-grip pliers
- 2lb ball pein hammer

* A 4" angle grinder with zirconium flap disks can save a lot of time in roughing out blanks and grinds and they're not expensive. But beware its a lot easier to make mistakes with an angle grinder than with files.

Woodworking

- Panel saw
- Coping saw
- Round surform file
- Assorted grades of sandpaper
- Fine wire wool
- Sharp knife

Safety

- Goggles
- Strong leather or kevlar gloves
- Fine particle dust mask or respirator
- Hearing protection
- Common sense (not available in the shops)

note: this is a basic minimum of safety kit, specific tools, materials and machines may require extra prcautions.

You should take extra care if you have any specific allergies or medical conditions.

[mojofilter]

Great idea Chris :biggthump Look forward to it!

[Underhay]

Sounds like a great idea for a tutorial :)
It will let people have a go for minimal initial outlay.

[narsil]

The tutorial proper starts here

Ful tang tutorial: Part 1 (http://www.britishblades.com/forums/showthread.php?t=8673)

Full tang tutorial: Part 2 (http://www.britishblades.com/forums/showthread.php?t=8749)

[JohanB]

Thanks a lot Chris :)

[ZDP-189]

I'd add ear protection, if the grinder's to be used. I prefer headset style protection to plugs, because I hate putting in plugs when my hands are already greasy and covered in swarf. A full face mask works better too.

[narsil]

Good point

[Edd-UK]

narsil
thanks
these tutorials are great looking forwad to trying them out this summer

[Edgehog]

Great stuff, thanks alot :biggthump

[KamSingh]

Thanks!