Silk purses out of sows' ears?

[mikeynj]

Has anyone else here been de-constructing/re-constructing the newer crop of Asian imports? It's been a bit of a learning curve, but I'm starting to be pleased with the results. The cheapy ChiTalians are certainly more robust than the R.E.M. and Korizzys, and it IS a bit satisfying to break them apart, so I say have some fun! It has caused me to learn how to burn and clamp buffalo horn to slab,(I find large horn tips at Tractor Supply and other big box places with pet supplies. Best done FAR outside the house). I've tried out replacement swing guards from scratch (Best done on a thick piece of metal which is sawn in half to get matched guards.) And Black burlap micarta will come out with a look reminiscent of the textured Korizzy scales, although not the feel. Same with black G-10. I would love to see some others' work!! Mikey

[Bill DeShivs]

Knives are interesting to work on-even the cheapies.

[mikeynj]

Thank you, Mr. DeShiv. I remember mentioning I made knives to someone and when further questioned my response was, "Well, it seems to require burning yourself a lot, and not being smart enough to stop doing it." In actuality, I am most happy in my shop creating.I'm hoping to try replicating some blades out of 1084, on the swing guards. I'm comfortable making fixed blades, but it's time to expand my comfort zone. Here's hoping for success!
Mike

[QGofLake]

That is some nice mod work on those.

[mikeynj]

Thank you Q. I have a couple of Rizzuto pieces in my collection I want to send you pictures of to add to your website, a single pin 11", a 7" guardless model, and the leverlock I posted here. I will do this once I grab the wife's phone for pics, mine sucks for camera work.

[hogwild69]

I certainly like what I see here. Best wishes on your endeavors.

[Madmarco]

Knice work, Mikey!
I always felt that the cheaper imports were fairly cool knives in their own right, and to see some of the mods that you guys are producing nowadays just confirms that feeling. You do very nice, clean work.
to AAPK!