This book has been produced to meet a growing interest in custom built knives. Those who admire the clean lines and fine balance of a well made knife often wish they could make their own. For too long the art of knifemaking has been shrouded in myth and mystery. This is quite understandable, considering the extremely high prices that top craftsmen can ask for a truly hand crafted custom knife.
In this book we shall look at the basic principles involved in producing a knife. The shape you decide to make is completely up to you. I have elected to make a simple “Bowie” shape. You can copy this if you wish, or select your own design. If you follow the steps involved, and don’t try to cut corners, you should finish with a custom knife equal to any good knife available through normal commercial outlets. However, this book is purely an introduction to knifemaking and deliberately kept to simple methods that should be within the scope of any person capable of using normal hand tools.
There is great satisfaction to be gained from making something for oneself. This pleasure is compounded when making knives. The cutting edge was surely the very first step that separated man from the apes. Once man had adopted the blade, his mastery over nature and the animal kingdom was assured. Thus knife making satisfies one of the most basic needs. Even in this day of mass production and ‘throw away’ junk, the knife holds special significance. All the more so when so few can now produce a truly hand made object of any real use. By making your own blade you are entering the ranks of a very select few.
Welcome to the club. May your edge always be keen and your blade true.
Bill Tarplee
March 1984
