Damascus knife blanks

[StagLefty]

Due to the storm and thinking about a future project I came up with this idea. I've always wanted a damascus knife but couldn't justify the price for a finished one. So I found this site and it seems affordable for a project. Plus I could design and make custom scales out of many different materials. Thoughts ?
http://knivesandknifemaking.com/products/damascus_finger_groove_skinning_knife_blank_blade_ hunting_skinner_steel_1095hc.php

[ray1970]

I say go for it. Post pictures as you go.

I'm too lazy to click the link but check out www.knifekits.com

[hunterhawk]

I "made" a pretty sweet knife for my dad... like you said I didn't really make it but I put the handle on a damascus knife I bought and it turned out pretty dang good! It still takes a long time.. with the right tools it wouldn't take so long but i did everything by hand.. definitely fun but to do a good job its going to take a while.. if my phone would let me post pics easier I would put it up... ill still try to put it up! but you should do it and see if you have the patience..its fun but frustraighting!

[ray1970]

I'm somewhat certain the OP is retired. He's got nothing but time.

[StagLefty]

I'm somewhat certain the OP is retired. He's got nothing but time.

Hopefully !!!!

[ben4372]

As someone who is starting to get a little too involved in making a few knives, do it. Or go on ebay. I bought a finished "custom" damascas knife on ebay for around 40 bucks. The overall finish was terrible. I removed the scales all too easily. I plan on putting a decent handle on it and reshape the blade. If you have time and inclination I think you'd be happier starting from scratch. The kit knifes always look a bit sterile to me. A recent post shows a knife made with a file and belt sander that looked entirely decent. Actually, I using the same tools too. Not fast, but the end result is a bit more custom.

[StagLefty]

This idea may be on hold for awhile. Members and owner on ESEE site warned me about these damascus blanks. Most of them Chinese made and have a tendency to de-laminate when used or exposed to any rust. Great site with a lot of expertise and advice on knives.

[KS63]

^^^^I was going to say that for the price, I wondered if it was made in China and how the steel would react with salts and chemicals. That's a shame though, as it would've been a cool project. I like the Damascus pattern so much that a handle would cover up a lot of its character. Wonder what it would work with 25-30lpi checkering instead?

[ray1970]

The website I mentioned has ones made in the USA. Not sure if they are any better than the Chinese ones.

Example....

http://www.knifekits.com/vcom/product_info.php?cPath=2_756&products_id=7443

[porfiriozg]

I think I'll give it a try too