Peter Killham

Thanks for the input. I did a little research after reading your first comment, and found that amk 2 x 72 with motor, 12 inch wheel and a couple of other items included is going for $1,999.00

I'm in Buckley Washington.

I currently have been using a 1x30 belt grinder and have learned that it limits what I can do regarding bladesmithing. I'm fairly new to this and was wondering if anyone had insight on a reliable belt grinder. I've heard that 2x72 works best. I'm trying to keep my budget under $3K. Thanks in advance.

Thank you all for your input and critiques, I find it encouraging. I am looking at taking a class next year, when I have some time off from work. I have been trying to fix the blocky handles I've made, with some finger grooves. I just finished a bowie knife, with an integral bolster. It was my first attempt and I can see where improvement is needed.

Not taken harshly at all! I appreciate the feedback. I agree with your assessment, and have been trying to learn how to make the blades more 3 dimensional. Some of these pictures were taken before I did more finish work on the handles, but they all could use a better transition into the blade.

Thanks! I didn't think to make and save templates. I too have been picking up steel at yard sales and such. My wife picked up two steel brackets for a model A Ford bumper. I found a 136 year old wrench at an estate sale, but I think I'll leave that one alone.

Thanks for the input! I'll be sure to add pics my next canister. I usually put a little bit of 1084 powder into the canister, then fill it with whatever material I was using at the time, then I fill it up with powder, tapping the sides to fill the voids. If I'm missing a step, please let me know.

Just try it. I did, and it could be a lot better, but I learned a lot.

Geoff, Great question, I can be overly critical of myself, but I constanly remind myself that I haven't been doing this for very long. I really like my handle work, and the blade shapes. On the other hand, when I say blade shapes, my first attempt at a kukri fell a little flat. For some reason, I can't form the belly of the kukri. Thanks again!

Thanks for the input. I'm still very wet behind the ears, I started this July. Only training I've had is watching Forged in Fire and videos on YouTube. Out of five canisters I've done, only 1 wielded a billet. I've learned from the 4 failures (using smaller canister, because I don't have a press.) I'm always looking to try different materials, and techniques.

I just started blacksmithing/bladesmithing this July. Everything I've learned has been from forged in fire, YouTube videos and advice from others in this forum. Any helpful criticism are appreciated.

A friend of mine is giving me her stainless steel kitchen knife set. Would it be ill-advised to harvest the steel from them to use for canister damascus?

Well, here's my first canister damascus. I'm still finishing up the handle. I've learned a lot during this time. Thank you for all of your help.

Thanks! I started drawing it out yesterday, got it just over 3.5 in long. Unfortunately I need to refill my propane tank. I'll keep working on it, and will post pictures of progress.

@joshua States I'm still learning, I started forging the middle of July. I have had no formal training, just videos. My forging skills still need work.