Serpentine Dagger

Brett Schaller

Well-Known Member
Hi Folks,

I've always been fascinated by serpentine daggers, and I've wanted to try grinding one for years. Finally got a chance! It wasn't easy . . . .

CPM154, hollow ground on a 3" wheel. Polished to 2000 grit, then further polished with crocus cloth. Nickel silver fittings, fluted stablilized box elder burl handle.Serpenting dagger web 2.jpg
 
It wasn't easy.:) I ground on the edges of the wheel, since you can't get the face into the curves. I now have several grinding belts that are worn out on the edges but fresh in the center. It's hard to feel the wheel drop into the hollow using only the edge. Also, you have to move the blade in and out, toward and away from the wheel, as well as tip it forward and back as you run through the curves.

I swore I'd never grind another one, but a friend I've known for thirty years saw it and wants one for her husband, so here we go again! I've found the second one easier though, now that I've got one under my belt.Serpentine dagger rough grind2.jpg
 
I’d love to try that. Are you using a contact wheel or a flat platen?
Very nice work BTW.
 
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