My son arrived home from Colorado these past 2 weeks. He has started his own general blacksmithing shop out there doing gates, railings, and decorative home items...whatever to make a living in between winter ski patrolling at Crested Butte. The past two years he has worked for a number of other local blacksmiths and welders while learning the trade.
We got to take in a New England ABANA Fall meet where he was a big hit with the local blacksmiths. Being a good Dad, I added a number of needed items for his shop...including a Hay Button Anvil, my old KMG grinder and numerous tools.
Last week he spent finishing off a forged Aspen tree that he was commissioned to do. Since my forge was hot and ready to go, I showed him how to make & grind a couple of knives to help him add a couple cash projects when his general blacksmithing was slow. His hammering skills surpass mine and his grinding was quite nice for the first blade. He left yesterday with his knives and my Chev 2500 HD truck in exchange for his old Tacoma.
So with anvil, power hammer, and forge moved into position, I am able to start forging again. First two blades forged in 3 months...Keeslar style blades forged, quenched/tempered, and ready for final grinding. These are up for Scott Teaschner's approval as I owe he and his wife a blade. If they aren't exactly what he wants, then they will be finished and up for sale to start my Associate Sponsorship...tippit
My hunting Knife for comparison on top OAL 7 1/4". Middle blade OAL 7 1/2" & Bottom blade OAL just under 8".