Hey there knife lovers, this is a first and it’s something we’re excited to bring to you! With so many knives on the market these days, it takes a lot of knowledge to make sure that you get the right tool for the right job. So that’s why we took a minute to chat with our friend BB Forge to bring you some insight’s you might not have considered.
Q: How does a forge choose the metal it uses for its knives?
It’s Just Sharp: We know that the quality of metal used in knife making is probably the single most important part of having a high quality tool. We were just talking about the Rockwell Hardness Scale last week. For you how do you choose what’s the best and what you use when you make your knives?
BB Forge: “For me , it’s a balance between edge retention and rust resistance. High Carbon Steel is my “go to” for hand forged blades for its excellent edge retention. With proper care, rust is not an issue.”
Q: What considerations would a forge give to the angel on the bevel?
It’s Just Sharp: We talk all the time around here about how important it is to be mindful of bevel angles especially when sharpening. What do you personally take into account when you’re designing knives?
BB Forge: “The intended use of the blade, generally determines the angle of the secondary bevel (cutting edge).
I like to keep my outdoor, hunting, camping and chopping edges at a 20-25 degree bevel . I like to keep blades that get less abuse and require a finer edge , like cooking knives, at a 12-15 degree edge. As far as the primary bevel angle, for me it simply depends on how thick the material is that Im working with , its intended use and aesthetics.”
Q: When would a forge consider a double bevel edge as opposed to a single?
It’s Just Sharp: Speaking of the secondary bevel, double bevel knives have been appearing more and more recently. as a knife maker when would you consider a double bevel over a single?
BB Forge: “This is a great question. Single bevel blades are excellent for consistent precision cutting/ slicing. Very useful and most common in a Culinary environment. It’s important to know if your client is right or left handed as the bevel is specific to the user. Single beveled blades also play a significant role in bush-crafting/ survival blades like seen on the very popular “ Tracker knife.” So again , I would say single vs double bevel would very much depend on the blades intended use.”
Q: What things do you look for in your personal knives other people might not?
It’s Just Sharp: When you go to make or buy a new knife, the process must look different. When you pick out one you want what do you look for?
BB Forge: “As an avid outdoorsman , I abuse my knives which means they require frequent sharpening. I look for a knife that is hard enough to retain an edge but not too hard making it difficult to sharpen. I also look for features that help me maintain a secure grip on the knife. Finger grooves, rubber , rings etc . Whether you’re up to your elbows inside a product of good aim, making dinner or fighting for your life, maintaining a secure grip on your knife is of significant importance to me.”
Q: What shows/media inspires you in knife making?
It’s Just Sharp: We all need a little inspiration. What are you watching that fascinates you?
BB Forge: The knife makers of Instagram are incredibly inspiring to me. Here I have met and learned from makers at all levels. From Forged in Fire Champions like @sdsknifeworks to absolute savage makers like @Blackdragonforge, @Tyrellknifeworks, @RPM_Neil , @Gentrycustomknives and @Baleteblades just to name a few.
Thanks to BB Forge for taking the time to help us answer some questions! If you’re looking for absolutely amazing custom knives make sure to head over to his page and check it out!
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