Added a hammered Tsuba of mild steel. I added a bluing agent, and heat colored the mild steel. Also added some fittings on the handle. These are cast, of unknown origin.
Shipments of silk ito and ray skin have been greatly delayed. I finished this with products that were on hand in the shop. Not entirely traditional, but neither is the blade shape on this tanto. My artistic interpretation...
A new tool entered the shop!!! Big Blu. Still learning the ropes, but it will definitely move some metal.
@SEMO I’ll ask the stupid question.. What is it? It looks like some type of hydraulic powered press...
No stupid questions... It is a pneumatic power hammer. Flattens a cold RR spike in 4-5 drops, but also has great control for finer work.
That’s pretty cool! I’m guessing that saves a lot of time and hammering to gets “raw/ donor” material down to size.
I have a copy old beat up traditional knives from when I was a kid or were given to me, all sentimental value. I don’t own any decent traditional knives. I’ve been having this itch lately for a nice traditional knife. One I can carry to church. One that cuts like a tool but is classy enough to pass for a gentleman’s piece...especially since I’m likely going to be starting a new job soon and it will be in an around a school so my typical tactical locking folder clipped to my pocket isn’t going to cut it (pun intended). These folders are exactly what I picture being in my pocket for those occasions above. Such incredible work. I am blown away. Your skills never cease to amaze me. I can’t believe I’ve never seen this thread til now.