The Passionate Apprentices - The Knifemaker [Part 1]

My thanks to my friend Mike for bringing this video to my attention.
Thanks Mike.
Regards, Keith.

Cutler's Tools from Diderot.

18th century Clasp Knife Handmade. Video.

Sheep Shearing Shears Knives-?

There has been a spate of postings on living history forums of late, including our own, on knives made from sheep shears. Now whilst it is true that sheep shearing goes back to madieval days, the shears used were not the same as those used today. If you are going to make a knife out of sheep shear blades, and claim it is authentic to your period, then the shears need to be authentic to your period also IF you are using the whole blade and arm. If you are only using the metal to craft a blade, then of course this is fine. Below you will see some examples of what I am talking about.

 The above knife is typical of the knives being shown. Whilst I think this is a really great knife and a great idea, it is not representative of a 18th century knife. Notice the reenforcing rib on the top of the blade. This is 20th-21st century. Yes they still make these shears.

 

 Above, 21st century shears. Note the rib on top of the blade.

 16th-17th century shears. Notice these are made in one piece, not two pieces.

 This knife above is actually advertised as an early Indian knife on an antique site! Early when!

Made My First Clasp Knife.

I have wanted to have a go at making a clasp knife for a long time now. Finally today I decided to have a go.  The metal from an old blade I used could have been a little larger, it made it difficult getting a decent shape out of it. Anyway, not too bad for a first attempt, I think I will do better next time.

 This is what I started off with, not the best!

 This is the clasp knife I made out of the blade.

I only used common hand tools, no fancy stuff. The blade had been hand forged by the look of the tang. I was able to work it with a good metal file.

Second Hand French Butcher Knife Conversion.

This is a good alternative for a Living Historian who can't afford to purchase a custom knife or even one off the shelf. This conversion takes it from a riveted 20th century knife to a pinned 18th century style knife. 

 Before.

 Before.

 Before.

 The tang after the removal of the 20th century handle.

 After. The new handle is pinned with hand forged nails.

 New handle rubbed with lindseed oil. I think I will soak it in lindseed oil.

 

Butcher Knife Conversion Part 3.

Butcher Knife Conversion Part 2.

This second hand knife was early 20th century. Hand forged blade with a riveted handle. I removed the handle, made a new handle and secured it with pins. I also reshaped the tang which in turn changed the shape of the blade. Here is Part 2 of the video.

A Sheffield Jack Knife Being Made The Old Way.

Note the use of a bow drill.