Trad Gang
Main Boards => Hunting Knives and Crafters => Topic started by: Leftieshot on June 05, 2008, 10:50:00 AM
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I've only seen a couple of these but the rules were the same if my memory serves me right. Why does the competition knife have to be a forged blade?
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Steve,
In the beginning of the competitions, the whole concept was to test the maker as well as the knife. Thus the maker had to use his own knife and be able to perform. These competitions are watched closely by lots of potential customers/buyers and they would naturally be more apt to buy from someone who is not afraid to put his knife to the test.
One thing that may not be clear to some of you guys is that any deformity or damage to the knife after the competition starts is grounds for disqualification. The officials run their fingernail slowly down the edge, feeling for chips or rolls.
The blade will, of course dull slightly with the abuse, but it should not be damaged. No sharpening or stropping is allowed once the competition has begun. The thing usually starts with a 2 X 4 chop against the clock, which tests the knives overall integrity (see if dont fall apart) as well as the edges ability to take the abuse. From there it goes on to other things.
The competitions allowed makers to show their stuff and what their knives could take and not be damaged. Some of the later competitions allow contestants to use knives made by others.
Lin
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I knew you wouldn't let me down Lin! Thank you.
Why aren't stock removal knives allowed in the competition? Sorry if I missed the your answer.
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from what ive gathered the people that judge and as lin said potential customers want to see is... just how well your own personal process/recipe of forging a blade holds up.
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The forging guys came up with the idea and placed this rule on things, as far as I know. Of course, nothing says anyone cant do it on their own.
Lin
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I've been tempted to build one lately and try it myself. Atleast the rope and 2x4, can't make myself destroy my knive with the vise test. Besides, I know it wouldn't make 90 degrees.
Thanks for your input Lin!