Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 Review

First Impressions of Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155

The Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 arrives as a blank canvas, a promise of potential realized through the hands of a skilled maker. This isn’t a finished knife, ready to slice and dice straight out of the box; instead, Knifemaking offers a 3.5-inch satin-finished stainless steel blade, a full tang just waiting to be embraced by custom scales. For a mere $12.95, it’s an intriguing option for those seeking a DIY project, a chance to craft something unique, and learn more about knife construction along the way.

I’ve been tinkering with knife modifications and custom builds for years, always on the lookout for quality blades that won’t break the bank. I was specifically searching for a smaller blade profile suitable for EDC (Everyday Carry) or potentially a smaller game hunting knife, and the Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 seemed to fit the bill.

The initial impression upon unboxing was surprisingly positive. The blade arrived well-protected, and the satin finish was clean and even, though the edges are understandably not razor-sharp. Its full tang design is reassuring. Compared to cheaper, thinner blanks I’ve encountered, this one feels substantial. I considered other blanks from Mora and Condor, but the Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155’s price point and dimensions made it a compelling starting point for a smaller project. My first thought was, “This could be a fun weekend project!”.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing involved a simulated bushcraft scenario in my backyard. I wanted to assess the steel’s edge retention with some basic tasks. This included whittling some tinder and attempting to create feather sticks using pine. The blade, with only its factory edge, performed adequately, though it quickly became apparent that sharpening would be necessary before any serious use.

I tested the blade’s corrosion resistance by leaving it outside overnight in moderately humid conditions. The stainless steel showed no signs of rust or discoloration, a positive sign for its intended use in outdoor environments. Initial use showed the BL155 does require more personal labor and customization to achieve optimal performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks, I completed the knife with custom-made Micarta scales and a proper sharpening. I then utilized the knife on several camping trips.

The stainless steel proved to be relatively easy to sharpen and maintain, although it wasn’t holding an edge as long as some higher-end steels I’ve worked with. After a couple of extended camping weekends the micarta held up and the knife served great utility. This is more than adequate given the price point.

Maintenance mainly consisted of cleaning and drying the blade after use and occasionally touching up the edge with a honing steel. I’ve used other blades that require more specialized care, which adds to the Knifemaking’s appeal for its low-maintenance needs.

Breaking Down the Features of Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155

Specifications

• The Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 boasts an overall length of 8.25 inches (20.96cm), providing a good balance between maneuverability and utility. This length feels comfortable in hand and makes the knife versatile for a variety of tasks.
• The blade itself measures 3.5 inches (8.89cm), a practical size for EDC or smaller game preparation. This length allows for precise control.
• It features a satin finish stainless blade, offering a degree of corrosion resistance. The satin finish also provides a low-glare surface.
• The full tang construction extends through the entire handle, enhancing the blade’s strength and stability. This makes it more durable than partial tang designs.
• The blade weighs 0.38 lb. This allows it to be light for all day carry but not so light that it loses structural rigidity.

These specifications make the Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 a suitable option for beginners looking to learn about knife construction without investing heavily in expensive materials. The full tang construction ensures a robust and reliable finished product, capable of withstanding moderate use.

Performance & Functionality

The Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155, once sharpened and scaled, performed reasonably well for its intended tasks. It excelled at smaller cutting chores, such as food preparation around the campsite or opening packages. The blade’s profile allows for precise cuts.

Its strength lies in its simplicity and adaptability. The Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 allows the end user to customize to achieve optimal comfort and grip. However, the stainless steel doesn’t retain an edge as well as some premium steels, requiring more frequent sharpening.

Design & Ergonomics

The BL155‘s design is simple and functional, lending itself well to customization. Its full tang construction provides a solid foundation for handle scales, allowing for a secure and comfortable grip. The blade profile is versatile and useful for various cutting tasks.

The blank is a light 0.38 lbs. The grip can be customized to the users personal preferences.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 should provide years of reliable service. The stainless steel blade resists corrosion, and the full tang construction enhances its overall durability. The knife is easy to clean and maintain, requiring only occasional sharpening and cleaning after use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 comes as a bare blade, encouraging users to explore their creativity and customize the handle to their liking. A multitude of handle materials, such as wood, Micarta, G10, or even paracord wraps, can be used to create a unique and personalized knife. Since the blank arrives with no pre-drilled holes, the user must create them, or use an adhesive to hold the material in place.

Additionally, various sheaths can be adapted to fit the finished knife, allowing for safe and convenient carry. The Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 opens a world of possibilities for customization.

Pros and Cons of Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155

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Who Should Buy Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155?

The Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 is perfect for:

• Hobbyist knifemakers looking for an affordable project.
• DIY enthusiasts who enjoy creating their own tools.
• Beginners wanting to learn about knife construction.
• Campers or hikers needing a small, customizable utility knife.

Who should skip this product?

• Anyone looking for a ready-to-use knife.
• Those who lack the tools or skills for knife making.
• Users who require a high-performance, premium steel blade.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• Handle material of your choice (wood, Micarta, G10).
• Epoxy or rivets for attaching the handle scales.
• Sandpaper and shaping tools for refining the handle.
• Sharpening stones or system for achieving a keen edge.
• Custom fitted sheath or universal sheath.

Conclusion on Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155

The Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 is a compelling value proposition for those willing to invest the time and effort to create their own knife. For only $12.95, you receive a solid foundation—a full tang stainless steel blade—upon which to build a personalized cutting tool. While it requires significant work to complete, the resulting knife can be a rewarding and functional piece.

The price is more than justified, given the quality of the materials and the potential for customization. I personally recommend it to anyone interested in learning the basics of knifemaking.

So, grab a Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155, unleash your inner craftsman, and forge your own path to a custom blade. You might just surprise yourself with what you can create!