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Post by adambomb on Aug 2, 2017 2:46:33 GMT
I've always enjoyed ancient tools and weapons, so I decided to make one. From one of those copper rods in the background there, about a quarter inch thick, I hammered out this little knife. It has a tiger maple handle with a mineral oil finish, and is fixed in place by a combination of pressure and some pine pitch glue I made. The pictures don't quite show the profile, but it's a flat 'V' to the edge, which is a short appleseed for strength. It isn't the sharpest in the world, given the limitations of even work-hardened copper, holding an edge barely sharp enough to cut paper. But it can cut vegetation easily, and the shape would lend itself to skinning, or even fleshing a hide. While a stone knife is much sharper, having a tool that was somewhat flexible and wouldn't chip or break must have been an amazing thing to the ancients with the rise of the first metal tools. I think Otzi would approve! I haven't been able to think of what kind of sheath I want to go with yet. I was thinking of utilizing the milkweed that grows around my area to make an Otzi-style woven sheath, once the monarchs are done with them. Any thoughts? ![](http://i.imgur.com/cqh7RhG.jpg) ![](http://i.imgur.com/0UHWK55.jpg) ![](http://i.imgur.com/gox2JAP.jpg) Pictured here atop some of my copper hoard and a rabbit pelt I got at a gift shop at Niagara falls.
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christain
Member
It's the steel on the inside that counts.
Posts: 2,835
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Post by christain on Aug 2, 2017 12:37:13 GMT
Very nice, and very authentic looking! Great job! I've never attempted a copper blade, but I've made many Early Iron Age knives and axes---some with simple copper fittings. I enjoy these simple tools and weapons. It's almost like going back in time when you are making them. Keep it up....good therapy for relieving stress! ![;)](//storage.forums.net/forum/images/smiley/wink.png) ....Chris
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Post by celegon on Aug 3, 2017 0:08:20 GMT
thats awesome! its good to see some one else interested in the more ancient tools and weapons , I made an otzi like sheath from yucca once..it turned out decent but ive been meaning to give it another go, would love to see how yours turns out
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Post by adambomb on Aug 4, 2017 2:24:55 GMT
Thanks guys!
Ancient tools are fantastic, because you don't need grinders, forges, lathes, or any "advanced" tools to make them. I made this with a carving knife, a hammer, a rock (hammerstone), and a drillbit. And the result is a serviceable tool, that I've already put to use parting milkweed fibers from the stalk. I think in the future I'd like to try a bone or a slate knife!
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Post by bigpete on Aug 5, 2017 9:52:51 GMT
Very cool !
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