Getting started

[JDice]

I just started reading this forum. The work I have seen here has inspired me to try to make my own knives (starting from kits). As experience has taught me to gain some knowledge - before buying tools, materials, etc - I am looking for some advice a good sources of information on getting starting building/finishing knives. I will be starting using purchased blades or re-working existing knives.

Thanks,

[elk ninja]

Hey J, welcome to the knife corner!  It's addicting, and I for one can't wait to see what others build/make/forge/put together... so you'll have to post pictures.

Here on this forum is a great place to start.  There are some knife build alongs, quite a few sheath build alongs... and some great advice when you need it.

Also, check out northcoastknives.com  Some good tutorials on different types of knives, some good kits and, while his name escapes me, a great guy at the other end to deal with.  Check out youtube and search green pete bushcraft knife.  A great four part tutorial using very basic gear.  Then there is Alpha knife supply, janz knife supply and texas knife supply for kits, bit and pieces.  Or try the four letter auction site, if you dare.  

I am sure there are lots more good build along sites that others know about, but that'll get yu going.

[JDice]

I am most definately reading every thread in the forum.

Thanks for the references.

[Lin Rhea]

Welcome J. I recommend taking some classes on making knives. After that you will have a much better idea of the tools you'll need. It really depends, of course, on how deep you want to get into knifemaking. A class will remove years from the learning curve.

Your starting out right by asking questions.    
                           Lin

[JDice]

Good thought. Thanks,

[KHALVERSON]

welcome j
if you get the chance pick up wayne goddards
$50.00 knife shop book  (i paid 20.00 for mineand worth every penny)  it will clear up a lot of questions and show that you dont need a lot of expensive tools to build quality knives
kevin

[elk ninja]

I'd echo the $50 knife shop.  I don't own it but have checked it out of the library and at the bookstore.  

Here's the first part of the greenpete knife video:
 

Mike

[JEFF B]

take a class first as it will save a lot of head aches. trust me i know. jeff

[JDice]

Kevin, Mike, and Jeff,

I appreciate the info.

Thanks

[BigGuns]

I am new here also but not exactly new to knife making. JDice you can also try knifekits.com also the cheapest soarce I have found for knife steels of all kinds is Admiralsteel.com. Good luck.

Once I figure out how to do it I will post pics of some of my recent knives.

[JDice]

Thanks