Paperback: 208 pages
Publisher: Krause Publications (June 25, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1440233837
ISBN-13: 978-1440233838
Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 0.6 x 10.9 inches
Shipping Weight: 1.3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
Average Customer Review: 4.1 out of 5 stars See all reviews (19 customer reviews)
Best Sellers Rank: #402,996 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #35 in Books > Crafts, Hobbies & Home > Antiques & Collectibles > Firearms & Weapons > Swords & Knives #54 in Books > Crafts, Hobbies & Home > Crafts & Hobbies > Weaponsmithing #232 in Books > Crafts, Hobbies & Home > Crafts & Hobbies > Metal Work
To be honest I was disappointed with this book What I expected has one hundred and one knife designs arranged in different categories such a hunting, camping, utility, kitchen etc The book sort of does that but instead has a lot of puffery about studying in Japan, how being able to cut a can is a good idea (Hmm), why Japanese steel and blade manufacture is superior to any other (Nah) The designs that are scattered through the book are ok but nothing really stands outThis book is ok but if you are looking for knives in the groups I listed above I would suggest you look for a Bob Loveless or Randall book Loveless in particular set the standard of designs for Western style knives in particular
The author takes his knife making seriously (obviously - he apprenticed in Japan for a bladesmith for 6 years), and isn't afraid to challenge and criticize current conventions and establishments, such as the K-Bar and tanto blades. I can understand why this upsets some folks, but his logic is sound, and definitely worth considering.That said, some of the most valuable content is at the back of the book. The author shares some of the templates (and more than a few) he's created in the past. This can be nearly invaluable for the new knifemaker, as it gives proven designs to work with and modify to be your own.I really liked the fact the author wasn't afraid to criticize current designs with sound logic. If you're starting off with knifemaking, I'd highly recommend this book as a start for good design.
Based on the designs alone, this book is worth five stars. The text is good but not great; I'd give it four stars. Master Carter is not as good a writer as Ed Fowler (for example), and I frequently wished he would elaborate more on certain topics. He explains his positions fairly well, although I do not necessarily consider them to be the final word on the subject — but the opinions of a Master Smith are ones worth considering very carefully.All things considered, this book is a must for anyone interested in the theory and practice of designing knives for use.
I have not read any of Murray's previous books but this ones focus is on practical knife design. It has some full size color pictures of his work which are nice and they're inspiring. But it also has some great templates 101 that you can photocopy, over 30 pages. He's not so narrow minded about designs that he thinks his are the only one's that should be used, he even invites collectors to purchase ones that aren't practical. There's a good chapter on making your own patterns and one on specific features.The ideas and patterns about the neck knives was worth the price to me especially the kata-ha.
Practical design information but lacking in depth.-There are several details missing for the beginning student of cutlery and knife making that are considered basics of design for purposes of end-user consideration. Blade geometry is not covered for specific functions of knife styles, like chisel vs. hollow ground for kitchen/vegetable knives... whereas "appleseed" or convex blade functions for cleavers and other geometries.-Great for a coffee table- and yes... I will experiment with the patterns- BUT overall I will not recommend this book to anyone who already has a creative eye. If you need a pattern book- buy this. Do not expect anything more out of it.
Serious knife users should read this book before buying their next knife. The knife designs contained in this book are just the cherry on top - a bonus.
this book isn't wordy. not a lot of philosphy and such, loaded with pictures. the last part of th ebook literallery is full of knife designs.
Awesome book great designs by Murray carter. Recommend to every knife maker .has many templets to go by and pictures
Shooter's Bible Guide to Knives: A Complete Guide to Hunting Knives, Survival Knives, Folding Knives, Skinning Knives, Sharpeners, and More 101 Knife Designs: Practical Knives for Daily Use Making a Modern Tactical Folder: Tips on How to Make a Folding Knife: Learn how to make a folding knife with Allen Elishewitz. Knife making tips, supplies ... how to make custom tactical folding knives. How To Sharpen A Knife & Care For Your Collection: Enjoy BLADE®'s comprehensive eBook on how to sharpen a knife, and maintain, care for, store and preserve your knives and knife collection. Knife Makers Handbook - Guide to Knife Crafting and Sharpening (Knife Sharpening, Knife Making, Bladesmith, Blacksmithing) Combat Knife Throwing: A New Approach to Knife Throwing and Knife Fighting, Revised and Updated (illustrations) Building the Everyday Work Knife: Build your first knife using simple knife making tools and methods Knife Throwing | Throwing Knives | Knife Throwing For Street Combat Survival Knives 2015: The World's Greatest Knife Book The Illustrated Directory of Knives, Daggers & Bayonets: A visual encyclopedia of edged weapons from around the world, including knives, daggers, ... and khanjars, with over 500 illustrations Knives 2011: The World's Greatest Knife Book Knives 2014: The World's Greatest Knife Book Knives 2010: The World's Greatest Knife Book Knives 2007: The World's Greatest Knife Book American Premium Guide to Knives & Razors Including Sheath Knives: Identifications and Value Guide Knife Making for Beginners: Secrets To Building Your First Knife Using Simple Tools! Knife Fighting, Knife Throwing for Combat (Special Forces/Ranger-Udt/Seal Hand-To-Hand Combat/Special W) Evernote for your Life | A Practical Guide for the Use of Evernote in Your Everyday Life [2014 Edition]: A Practical Guide for the Use of Evernote in Your Everyday Life Use Now Dollhouse Wallpaper Vol 3: 6 Ready To Use Dollhouse Wallpapers To Decorate 6 Rooms; Full Color! (Use Now Dollhouse Series) Knife Throwing: A Practical Guide