knives from sawblades??

[adam]

Hey guys,
    I have a few saw blades laying around and was going to make some knives out of them. I am going to use my dremel to cut them out but was wondering what kind of blade do i need to get for it?? Also, what is the best way to put a bevel on the blade? Thanks for your help!!

Adam

[brettlandon]

I've been tinkering with the sawblade knifes for a little while now and have found that the lighter cut-off wheels work best.  I tend to go through a lot of them though.  The main thing to remember is not to let the blade get too hot to touch while cutting.
   
I use a belt sander to bevel the blade, but a good grinder will work too.  Again, make short passes and don't let the blade heat up.  Keep the angle around 22 degrees.  I do the final edge with a stone.
Look out Adam, this stuff is addicting!!!    

-Brett

P.S. Post pics when you're done.

[farmboy]

Hey Adam
I am new to knife making and asked about saw blades as well.....I recieved the same advise as brettlandon gives.  I suppose if your willing or have the equipment to go through a heat treat process you wouldnt have to0 worry about heating the blade while working it.  The other thing I noted when I went through my stash of blades was that the carbide tipped ones were mild steel.  Spark testing revealed a long yelow/orange spark.....the non carbide tipped ones had a sparkly spark that broke apart near the wheel which indicates a higer carbon content. I'll be working on my file knife tomorrow

Good luck! and have fun
Farmboy

[Lin Rhea]

Farmboy,
         
         Good observation about the blades. The  non carbide tiped blades are probably the best. The whole thing should be good for a blade. You are also correct about getting them hot while grinding. If you are going to heat treat them anyway, it dont hurt the steel to get it hot.
       A belt sander of some sort is what I would try to use to grind with.      
                                        Lin