I am pretty much new to knifemaking. What type and where can i get steel to make my first knife. I made the template already. Also I'm really low on budget so it can't be expensive. My tools are a hacksaw, a couple files, and sandpaper. Last question, i don't have access to any forge or anything like that so how am i going to heat treat it. Any answers will be appreciated. Heres the wanted design. It's at 50% of size. The first attachment is the full tang the second is finished.

Edited July 6, 200916 yr by mod07

Hello, archer and welcome. I am not a bladesmith, but my son makes knives. He uses old lawnmower blades, and if you are worried about heat treating, don't get them hot enough to ruin the hardening ( if the metal starts to show colors, it is getting hot). There is a whole section here on knives and blades. Suggest you post some questions there. Good luck.

I am pretty much new to knifemaking. What type and where can i get steel to make my first knife. I made the template already. Also I'm really low on budget so it can't be expensive. My tools are a hacksaw, a couple files, and sandpaper. Last question, i don't have access to any forge or anything like that so how am i going to heat treat it. Any answers will be appreciated. Heres the wanted design. It's at 50% of size. The first attachment is the full tang the second is finished.

Edited July 6, 200916 yr by mod07

make a wash tub forge Charcoal Forge
As far as metal goes. Start out with a railroad spike then move on to leaf springs. After that, started pattern welding chainsaw blades. After that you can start to make anything you want. All the plans for those things are online.

Get Wayne Goddards $50 Knife Shop, there's loads of useful info on making tools from scrap and what scrap metal to look out for.