Over a four week duration I took a Blade Smithing class at JMU. Having no experience in metal working I thought it was about time to try out this medium. I learned hot to employ a variety of metalworking techniques similar to those used by blacksmiths, as well as woodworking for the crafting of the handles. 
     Blade smiths are those who primarily manufacture blades by means of using a forge to shape their blade & Knifemakers who form blades by using the stock removal method, there is overlap between both. I used knifemaker skills with my first two blades and bladesmith skills with the last two. 
     All four are meant to represent one cohesive set that would help a person in a survival situation. They each have a different purpose and function.  

Blade #1: Partial Tang
title: Cutting Knife
length: 7"
material:
blade: cut from carbon steel
handle: ziricote wood & tiger maple wood

Blade #2: Full Tang
title: Karambit
length: 7"
material: 
blade: cut from carbon steel
handle: bubinga wood & brass pins

Blade #3: 
title: Tomahawk 
length: 11.5"
material: 
blade: forged from an old hammer
handle: walnut wood

*finished handle coming soon*

Blade #4: 
title: Dagger 
length: 10.5"
material:
blade: forged from carbon steel
handle: weng wood & carbon steel welded to a nut 

*finished handle coming soon*