Thread: First kind of attempt...

Well it isn't really a full blown attempt, more like seeing what works and what doesn't. I don't have any type of grinder so after reading the knife forums I decided to try it with a couple of files, and thought I would give the dremel a try.

The dremel didn't work out, it was too hard to get an even grind. The files worked pretty well. I had a look around B&Q for bigger round type files but they didn't have any. So any ideas how I can make BIG grooves without a grinder?

Btw I messed it up and it was only the first stage of grinding/filing. But now I have an idea of how it works

Sure ... decide what radius you want for your big hollows and cut a piece of wood to the correct radius. Tape down some sandpaper on the outside of the curve and a lot of arm strength later you'll have a non motorized hollow grind. Change the radius and you'll change the depth of the hollow.

You'll also have a lot more control over the process and many less mistakes. For that matter, you'll have a much better foundation for grinding later if or when, you make the move to a motor grinder.

Thanks Mike, that's a really good idea. I suppose that way the choices are endless. I'm going to start again tomorrow and see how it goes, thanks again Mike.

Had another go today, used a hacksaw and some files. Found a bigger file Mike, so didn't need the sandpaper. (Ended up not using it though) I was going to try a japanese type razor with no scales, but kind of messed it up by not cutting it straight. So now my razor has a huge tang

I need to do some more filing and whatever else, but so far it seems to be working. It is slow, but it seems to be coming along.

It is looking good so far.

I am just thinking out loud,
1) file to a true wedge
2) rough file hollow
3)sand to radius and blend in using the method Mike suggsted

It is like my shop teacher used to say, "the file is a poor mans milling machine"

Charlie

Originally Posted by spazola

It is looking good so far.

I am just thinking out loud,
1) file to a true wedge
2) rough file hollow
3)sand to radius and blend in using the method Mike suggsted

It is like my shop teacher used to say, "the file is a poor mans milling machine"

Charlie

thats the work order right there if you have not a grinder
it takes time and real work but it can be done for sure

Done some more filing today. It's starting to look better. I have to tidy it up some more and then I'll do what you guys suggested. (Thanks) And then try and heat treat it. It's not that slow doing it, but it is hard work But I'm enjoying it so far.

Don't give up! You will learn and build confidence as you go. Above all; Rest when you get tired, put it down when you are frustrated.
Respectfully
~Richard

Thanks Richard. I'm not going to give up yet, even if I mess this one up at some point and have to start again. And it can be frustrating! But I have been resting when it starts to do my head in which does help Thanks.