Szilaski Custom Knives & Tomahawks

Joseph Szilaski Custom Knives and Tomahawks

Home

Art Knives

Folders

Fighters

Tomahawks

Miniatures

Std. Models

Shop Tour

Available

Ordering Info

Show Schedule

Contact Me

Shop Tour

I use both the forge and the stock removal method of making knives. I feel both methods produce excelent cutlery when properly heat treated and sharpened.

All of my forged blades I heat treat myself, while most of my stock removal blades are sent to a professional heat treater, where they receive a sub-zero quench for added toughness and durability.

My experience in metal working began as a teenager in Europe. I worked as a blacksmith's apprentice, making knives and cleavers for the local butchers.

I have also worked as an ornamental ironworker, and in an at foundry as a senior detailer on the fine art and scultptures made there.

Most craftsman are always looking to improve their working techniques. So I am constantly testing my knives. Pictured to the right, is D2 blade cutting into the side of a 1964 BMW that was headed for the junk yard.

Below, is a demonstration of the ABS (American Bladesmith Society) flex test. After forging of the blade, and a series of cutting tests, the knife is placed tip down into a vise. It is slowly bent to at least 90 degrees without breaking.


	After this knife survived the 90 degree bend, the steel sprang back almost to its original form. I do not know which of these tests broke my heart more. The bending of a blade after so much work, or the death of a classic BMW.