I Want to learn to forge a Knife

[pinshooter45]

I am addicted to Forged in Fire. I have also always had an interest in edged weapons. I have done some research and am pretty sure I could construct a Forge etc. However I am nearly 60 years old, I have a bad shoulder, a hip replacement, and other arthritic issues. So Before I invest the time and $$ in building a forge and finding or building some type of "Anvil", I would like to find someone who would be willing to help me forge my first blade. That way I will know if my poor beat up body can take the pounding, so to speak. I actually have a few a few tools, they include a decent Maul, two different tongs, and a Railroad spike from which to forge the blade. So if there is anyone out there who would like to try to teach a grumpy old man some basic forging skills let me know please. Thanks! BTW I'm realistic and am not expecting to make Excalibur my first time....

 

[CampingJosh]

I drove past a little place in Acton (south Indy area) that had a flyer in the window advertising knife making classes. I've never been in there, but they should be able to help you.

Indy Hammered Knives https://ihknives.com

 

[indygunguy]

Pinshooter- we’re in the same boat.

As Campingjosh mentioned, IHK does classes. I’ve met the owner James Wahls a few times and he’s a great guy. I’m doing one of the weekend classes in mid-January and REALLY looking forward to it. IHK is open kinda normal business hours (see website) so you can stop by and check it out.

 

[Robert Richardson]

Pinshooter- we’re in the same boat.

As Campingjosh mentioned, IHK does classes. I’ve met the owner James Wahls a few times and he’s a great guy. I’m doing one of the weekend classes in mid-January and REALLY looking forward to it. IHK is open kinda normal business hours (see website) so you can stop by and check it out.

Big for James, great guy. I have 3 of his knives and he puts on a really great class. Worth your time to check him out.

 

[pinshooter45]

Thanks All I'll give him a try. Look at the Website etc. Got lots of time on my hands.

 

[1DOWN4UP]

Pinshooter,the carbon content of the RR spike is to low.Once you are near theshape of the blade,MIG a good strip of hi carbon as your cutting edge.Hate to see you put that much work in a knife that is too soft to use.