|
My name is Derek Goodson. I've been making knives with serious intent since 2004. Currently, I am a part time knifemaker, although I hope to turn full time at some point in the future. I use a coal fired forged, and hammer my blades out the old fashioned way.
|
|
|
I prefer to forge my blades from simple carbon steel, although I have gone the stock removal route at times. Generally I flat grind them, sometimes with a convex edge. Handrubbed finishes are my favorite, with 400 grit being my pick for a user knife. I selectively heat treat my blades. I will typically make a leather sheath to accompany the knife, although I will sometimes use kydex if it's suitable.
|
|
|
Forging a knife blade keeps the grain of the steel oriented in line with the blade. In other words, the steel's internal structure flows with the shape of the blade itself. In contrast, the stock removal method removes most of the original bar and weakens the metal. When forging a blade, bevels are hammered on each side of the blade. This method requires less grinding upon the blade and also compresses and fractures the internal crystalline structure of the steel. Thus, the edge is denser, tougher and more capable of retaining an edge. Simply put, a forged blade has less internal stress and keeps its edge longer.
|
|
© Copyright 2005, Derek Goodson. All rights reserved.
Website design and construction: Aaron McGinnis
Lawrenceville Business List
|
