Three Forward-Curved Blades
Jul 16, 2009 2:37:10 GMT
Post by Deleted on Jul 16, 2009 2:37:10 GMT
OK, so here's a few old projects that I haven't given away or sold but still like to keep around to look at and play with. All are forward curved blades.
The first is one of those CAS Iberia "dancing" Scimitars I was quasi-duped into going for many years ago. When I disassembled the handle I was shocked at the whimpiness of the tang, so I shortened the blade. In the process I had this sudden idea to switch the orientation to make it a forward curved sword (probably because the blade's section is so thin, despite its good spring temper, that it increases stability in the cut). I'm still leery of its functionality as a "battle" piece, but nevertheless have no fears it will fall apart and haven't hesitated to use it both to cut light targets and as a machete. In cutting tests the back/false edge makes for a nice ability to cut, when in close, on the backswing. Blueing the blade made for a nice touch as a decorative piece, which is still what it's mostly used for.
The next two are antique scythes I ground out a tang section for and handled. The first was a thicker sectioned scythe and is a definite "chopper"--but good at it. Also used literally as a backyard cutter often--that is, a big-brush machete.
The second is a from a scythe with a "grass cutting blade" of thinner section, and much more of a cutter. That is, of course, after some time I took to stabilize and convert the red rust that coated the entire blade. But hey, that's why I got it for only five bucks--and the dark patina and pitting give it a nice look. (Though believe me it doesn't inhibit performance at all--of the three this cuts things like bottles best by a long shot.)
I'm pleasantly surprised at how light and agile the converted scythes are when one gets used to the balance point being relatively far out at 4 to 5 inches. Makes me wonder if peasants ever converted scythes into makeshift swords this way, rather than only into polearms.
Fun to look at though, and fun to use. The "heel" section not only keeps the grip secure, but makes a great place to grab with a second hand for power strokes.
Very easy beginners' project--I encourage others to give it a try.
The first is one of those CAS Iberia "dancing" Scimitars I was quasi-duped into going for many years ago. When I disassembled the handle I was shocked at the whimpiness of the tang, so I shortened the blade. In the process I had this sudden idea to switch the orientation to make it a forward curved sword (probably because the blade's section is so thin, despite its good spring temper, that it increases stability in the cut). I'm still leery of its functionality as a "battle" piece, but nevertheless have no fears it will fall apart and haven't hesitated to use it both to cut light targets and as a machete. In cutting tests the back/false edge makes for a nice ability to cut, when in close, on the backswing. Blueing the blade made for a nice touch as a decorative piece, which is still what it's mostly used for.
The next two are antique scythes I ground out a tang section for and handled. The first was a thicker sectioned scythe and is a definite "chopper"--but good at it. Also used literally as a backyard cutter often--that is, a big-brush machete.
The second is a from a scythe with a "grass cutting blade" of thinner section, and much more of a cutter. That is, of course, after some time I took to stabilize and convert the red rust that coated the entire blade. But hey, that's why I got it for only five bucks--and the dark patina and pitting give it a nice look. (Though believe me it doesn't inhibit performance at all--of the three this cuts things like bottles best by a long shot.)
I'm pleasantly surprised at how light and agile the converted scythes are when one gets used to the balance point being relatively far out at 4 to 5 inches. Makes me wonder if peasants ever converted scythes into makeshift swords this way, rather than only into polearms.
Fun to look at though, and fun to use. The "heel" section not only keeps the grip secure, but makes a great place to grab with a second hand for power strokes.
Very easy beginners' project--I encourage others to give it a try.