You’ll need to start with a suitable knife blank to make your custom knife. A knife blank is a piece of metal cut and shaped to resemble a knife but without a handle or any other finishing touches. Knife blade blanks come in various shapes and sizes and can be made from different types of steel, such as carbon steel, stainless steel, or Damascus steel.
One of the benefits of starting with a knife blank is that it allows you to customize your knife to your exact specifications. You can choose the type of steel, the blade’s shape, and the tang’s length. You can also add your handle material, such as wood, bone, or antler, and shape it to fit your hand perfectly. By starting with a knife blank, you have complete control over the finished product and can create a genuinely one-of-a-kind knife.
What is Knife Blanks?
If you enjoy making knives or want to create a custom blade, then you’ll need to know about knife blades. Knife blanks are essentially pre-made blades that have not been sharpened or finished. They come in various shapes and sizes and are made from different types of steel.
Types of Knife Blanks
Several types of knives blanks are available, each with its unique characteristics. Here are some of the most common types:
- Fixed Blade Knife Blanks: These are knife blanks designed to be used with a fixed-blade knife. They come in various shapes and sizes and are made from different types of steel.
- Folding Knife Blanks: These are blanks designed to be used with a folding knife. They come in various shapes and sizes and are made from different types of steel.
- Damascus Knife Blanks: These are knife blanks that are made from Damascus steel. Which is a type of steel that is known for its distinctive pattern. Damascus steel is created by layering different types of steel together and then forging them into a single piece.
- Stainless Steel Knife Blanks: These are blanks made from stainless steel. A type of steel that is resistant to rust and corrosion. Stainless steel blanks are often used for kitchen knives.
- Carbon Steel Knife Blanks: These are knife blanks made from carbon steel. A type of steel known for its hardness and durability. Carbon steel blanks are often used for hunting and outdoor knives.
No matter what type of knife blank you choose, it’s important to remember that they are just the starting point for creating a custom knife. You’ll still need to finish the blade, add a handle, and sharpen the edge before your knife is ready to use.
Choosing the Right Knife Blank
If you’re new to knife making, choosing the suitable knife blank can be daunting. There are many factors to consider, from the type of steel to the blade shape. In this section, we’ll cover the main factors to consider when choosing a knife blank and famous knife blank brands to consider.
Factors to Consider
When choosing a knife blank, there are several factors to consider:
- Steel Type: The type of steel used in the blade will affect the knife’s durability, sharpness, and ease of maintenance. Common steel types used in knife blanks include stainless, high-carbon, and Damascus steel.
- Blade Shape: The blade shape will determine the knife’s intended use. For example, a drop point blade is ideal for hunting knives, while a clip point blade is better suited for general-purpose knives.
- Blade Length: The blade length will determine the size of the finished knife. Consider the knife’s intended use and personal preference when choosing a blade length.
- Blade Thickness: The blade thickness will affect the weight and durability of the knife. Thicker blades are more durable but heavier.
- Tang Type: The tang is the blade part extending into the handle. A full tang provides better balance and durability than a partial tang.