Actually first thing I've ever forged.  Grinding is definitely going to take a lot more practice, among other things. 5160 leaf spring steel, black walnut handle. I wanted to leave scale/forge marks across the top and handle area but I sanded off areas unintentionally. Blade is about 6", overall 12"

 

 

 

Nice looking blade. 

Looks really good.

Looks like one of my first projects. Bout the same size too. But I used a cocobolo handle.

Be proud of the accomplishment, I know I was.

By pro blade smithing  standards, It may not be perfect. But my first one still holds a special place in my heart.

Well done! Now that you've got a taste for it you'll never stop  

Make a sheath, and (if legal in your city/state) carry that puppy and put it to use. You''l learn a lot by using it, and get a feel for what to work on.

Pretty nice Shamus, good first project for sure. You'll be much happier with the scale sanded off the tang, all the parts of the handle need to be smooth. A little scale will grind through or blister your hide a LOT faster than you might think.

Well done, carry on.

Frosty The Lucky.

the choil area is tough unless you have a wheel to get into and work it. nice job on the blade.

john