cleardayone

You don't need a welder to build a forge. I've made mine from a piece of black stove pipe, insulating wool, and soft refractory bricks. All together maybe $50. My burner is made from pipe fittings from Ace hardware...

http://www.youtube.com/user/lanemoore

If you are willing to spend real money, spend it on a real anvil!! I used a Harbor Freight ASO for a while. It worked fine just took more heats and time. Great for a beginner! There are lots of options.

The new owner is very happy with it. I don't believe he wants it for an EDC. He said it was more as a memento from his first buck he got. He's had this piece of antler for over 30 years!! The blade feels a little weird in the hand, but it is definitely usable.

I stacked two pieces of black walnut I had on hand to even out the transition from the antler to the blade. It was pretty challenging because I wanted to keep as much of the antler intact as possible.

Thanks for the compliment

Lane

Here is my latest attempt...

The knife is for a coworker who also provided the antler for the handle. He was extremely happy it I am proud to say!! Forged from 5/32 O-1. Roughly a 5 inch flat ground blade. The sheath was a nightmare from the start. I accidentally started building the sheath for left handed carry. I had to re-stack everything on the opposite side. Luckily I was able to save it.

All comments are welcomed. Thanks for looking.