Bladesmithing, Forging a Railroad Spike Knife: GunVenture|S1 E5 P3

Published on January 22, 2017
Duration: 5:28

This video demonstrates the process of bladesmithing a railroad spike knife. It covers heating the spike in a coal forge, shaping it on an anvil and in a vise to create a twisted handle design, and forming the blade. A key technique shown is differential heat treatment, where only half the blade is quenched to harden the edge while keeping the spine flexible.

Quick Summary

Learn to forge a railroad spike knife by heating the metal in a coal forge until yellow, then shaping it on an anvil and in a vise. Create decorative twists for the handle and perform differential heat treatment by quenching half the blade to achieve a hard edge and flexible spine.

Chapters

  1. 00:13Introduction to Bladesmithing
  2. 00:41Making a Railroad Spike Knife
  3. 01:15Heating the Spike
  4. 01:24Marking and Shaping the Handle
  5. 02:01Twisting the Handle Design
  6. 02:47Forging the Blade
  7. 03:25Differential Heat Treatment
  8. 03:53Finishing the Knife
  9. 04:39Conclusion: Railroad Spike Knife Art

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first step in forging a railroad spike knife?

The first step is to heat the railroad spike in a coal forge until it reaches a workable temperature, indicated by a yellow color. This allows the metal to be shaped effectively.

How is the handle of a railroad spike knife typically decorated?

The handle is often decorated by marking the spike vertically down the center and on all sides, then twisting it in a vise to create patterns like an alligator skin design.

What is differential heat treatment in knife making?

Differential heat treatment involves quenching only a portion of the blade, typically the edge, to make it hard for cutting. The rest of the blade, the spine, remains softer and more flexible.

What tools are essential for forging a railroad spike knife?

Essential tools include a coal forge for heating, an anvil for shaping, a hammer for striking, and a vise for twisting and holding the metal securely.

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