Hi everyone. I'm Rick Runciman from Calgary. I'm a lifer journeyman machinist who began making knives 30 years ago after spending an afternoon talkin knives and enjoying a few cold ones with Bryan Lyttle. Being a machinist, I am into stock removal and cutlery grade stainless. I have a small machine shop in my garage where I've decided to take my fun and amazing hobby into a retirement business to supplement my pensions. Not looking to get rich and if I can sell 3 or 4 pieces a month, I'll be a happy camper. I'm looking forward to meeting many like minded people here, and will be able to be helpful with any questions regarding machining. Thanks for allowing me the privilege of joining your forum. I notice pics are not hosted on this server, so I'll set up a web page and host my pics on the Apache webserver built in my Mac. Coming shortly.
Well that works good for now. The top is my first knife, made from a piece of a big industrial hacksaw blade, about 30 years ago. ugly but the high speed steel stays sharp. Good utility knife. in the middle is a drop point I sent to my best friend for Christmas about 25 years ago, he broke the handle, and wanted a new one, but it's getting an upgrade for him. The tanto is my latest project. 440c blade, 410ss guard, pommel and spacers. Dyed maple burl and brass spacers. Now it comes apart for filework on the stainless spacers, back together for polishing. Should be finished shortly.
Welcome to the forum, Rick! If you have some free time on the weekend of September 17 and 18 take a drive up to Wetaskiwin and take in the Metal Art Show and Sale at the Reynolds-Alberta Museum. Lots of custom knifemakers will be there displaying and selling their blades. Great bunch of people to get to know. Jim T (once again shamelessly promoting my favourite workplace event.)
Thanks guys, I like the tanto too. Wish I could keep it, but I live in Alberta, the land of no jobs. So , regrettably, I'll have to sell it.
Airdrie guy here myself... When I get back up and running, I never mind getting together and comparing notes on things!
Bobbybirds, when your pain lets up, and you start getting mobile, you are more than welcome to come visit my humble little shop. I enjoy meeting like minded crazy artists.
Welcome Rick! Calgary eh? I spent a lot of time in Calgary years back installing their library system. Actually, i think I've been to every little town in Alberta to install a network or a server of some kind. Beautiful area. I could never get used to how quick the weather would change though. Start out on a Feb. morning with a parka so cold i couldn't feel anything and by 10:00 i was in a T-shirt. But 1:00, back to the parka. Anyway, beauty knives.
