This little chap has undergone a few identity changes since it was first made. I suppose, like any lump of steel it started out as a lump of rock but we won’t go there. I first came across it as an old file. I have no idea what it had been used to shape before I got it so I’ll just start my story there shall I?
I decided that it would probably have more fun as a knife than as a file so I set to with my trusty bench grinder.
It’s a lovely blade shape and carves really well. I’m also really pleased with the finish. Only problem, it’s really uncomfortable in the hand for carving with. So..
First it got some resin impregnated cord wrap.
Still not great… So..
It got some scales epoxied on. A massive improvement but still not great. Added to which a combination of too smooth a metal surface and the wrong glue meant one came off.
So… Back to my trusty grinder and a little while later and a lovely little antler tine.
Then of course I realised I’d left too much tang.. Back to the grinder..
Perfect! It carves like a dream and is sharp enough to shave with. The length and comfort of the grip means I can do delicate little slices as well as big power cuts.
But the thing to always remember is to “respect the edge”, or else it’ll bite you.
Doesn’t stop me loving the knife though. I was tired and walking, and got distracted, next thing I’m searching for a clean tissue…
