Funny Knife Emails, Stories

I've decided to include this page because I get so many funny stories, emails, pictures, and comments, that I want to share the humor. It is amazing how much foolishness, ignorance, and hype that is rampant in the knife world. Why laugh alone when I can laugh with you? I'll add to this page as I can, and as new stuff comes my way.

My direct responses will be in green text. My thoughts will be in green bold italics. I won't bother correcting their spelling or punctuation, it gives the emails such an original flavor-

Hello Jay,

I was just wondering if you can smelt a steel alloy for use in a custom sword? I still need to do more research about what style of sword I want, but I know I want it to be insanly strong.

Later, K.

Hello, K., thanks for writing.

Though I don�t usually answer �how to� letters, I just wanted you to know that the best steels are made professionally, in vacuum furnaces where the steel alloy elements are closely controlled for maximum purity. There are some guys that are smelting their own ore, making what our industry calls �primitive� blades by old methods, and there is a following for those types of work. But it is a far cry from metals that are made for professional use as cutting tools for industry, machine shops, or the military industrial complex. Fortunately, these steels are available for use in custom knives and swords, if the client desires to pay for such quality.

When you use the term �insanely strong,� I think I understand what you�re interested in. The reality is that �strong� is not a word that is clearly and usefully used in describing steel properties, as there are many more considerations such as toughness, hardness, wear resistance, and machining workability. Other terms used are corrosion resistance, surface treatments, specific applications and cost. There is a lot of hype on the internet about what constitutes the �right� blade steel, and all I can tell you is that it depends on many factors that must be considered. There is no super steel, just good, reasonable choices. Please read my FAQ page here and my Blades page here for more information.

Thanks, Jay Fisher

I will be in South Africa and Nimibia next year if I have time I would love to see your knives. In the meantime a brochure would be nice.

M. E., New Albany, IN.

PS. directions would be great.

Hello, M. Thanks for writing. From your text, I'm wondering if you had intended to send this email to me, not some other maker. That is because I live in Clovis, New Mexico, USA, not in Africa. ??? If you are still interested in knives, please let me know.

Thanks, Jay Fisher

[I love this! Directions would be great inside Namibia (from Indiana!) Is NM short for Namibia? Or maybe there's a new state named Namibia-- and no one told me!]

Jay,

This is R. from WV, I am looking for a professional sword maker, and I readed your profile on the site, and I think you can make a sword for me. I don't care how much money take to make it, but I just needed to made the sword. The sword is original designed by me, and I also send you a drawing of it. I know its not really detail but hopefully you get what I mean. And if you want more information on how the sword are supposed to look like, send me an e-mail, and I will be right with you.

PS this is just an e-mail to ask you if you're interesting to making a sword for me or not.

[Above: This is the actual drawing the client sent to me for consideration (I'm not kidding!)]

Jay, heres a little bit of the detail of the sword: Sword Legnth: 32" Dagger: 17.5" Sword are single-edged Dagger are double-edged Handle Materia: leather

Scabbard: (I will send you a picture of it) Please send me your mailing address, because I want to send you a few very detail sword script pictures. And it includes the drawing of the sword, dagger, scabbard, and the whole thing. And plesae note that the picture I sent you yesterday its just an idea, and please don't start to making the sword until I send you the pictures, and of course, don't forget to tell me how much its gonna cost and I'll send you the first deposit(or one payement) whenever you start the sword.

Thanks~ R.

[Okay so the guy's not an artist. That's okay, I'm still trying...]

Dear R.: Wow. The dagger is a short sword in itself! You can send information to: Jay Fisher, 1405 Edwards, Clovis, NM 88101. Please send copies, not originals. Once we figure out the details, I'll quote you a price, then you can decide if that is acceptable. If you do accept, I'll require half down before I start the project.

Thank you, Jay

Jay,

do you think you can give me more ideas about the swords? hey, why don't change sword legnth to 40"? and dagger...? I don't know how regular dagger length should be... you know what kind of sword I'm want right, sword with dagger attached to it...!

[Stupid me, I should know what kind of sword he wants!]

It is unusual to see a dagger as part of a sword handle. The reason is that when the sword is held, the dagger blade will be pointed toward you, not your opponent. But as an artistic piece, it is occasionally done, and can be quite beautiful. As far as dagger length, that depends on the design. A very long dagger blade will mean that the sword would be held farther away from the body, and may not even be possible. So you have an idea of the kind of work you will be investing in, I want you to know that my sword prices start at $2400, and are typically $3000-6000, some much higher. I make only real swords, and they require a lot of work and time. Each piece is quoted individually, and is one of a kind. If you wish, send me copies of your drawings and we can discuss details.

Thank you, Jay

[Evidently, I was out of his price range. Sigh... I was looking forward to seeing that baby in the drawing.]

[Here's a typical scam letter. These guys are overseas, and have in their possession some stolen credit card numbers (identity theft), and want me to send them knives. When I do, I'll later find out the cc number is invalid, and my knives are gone... it's happened to a lot of makers. I included the fake name, too, as I'm certain this is a scam. I get a couple of these a month.]

I Mr phillips will like to know if you have recieved a mailsent from me to you dated 03/05/05.I do have a problem with my computer so i need to re-sent this mail as written below to you.I so much apologise for the inconviniences i might hve cuased you.
Mail dated 03/05/05 is given below:
Hello Sales,
I have an order supply for the purchase of handmade Knife which will be delivered to a client of mine.your email was forwarded to me by some admires of your good job.I will want you to give me the list of the handmade knife you have in stock with their unit prices so as to forward the needed quantities to you.to
prepare a preforma invoice for the order. I awaits your urgent response as soon as possible. Thanks.

Regards, MR. PHILLIPS MORINHO.

Dear Mr. Morinho,

Current available knives and prices are posted here: http://www.jayfisher.com/current1.htm. I accept money orders or cashiers checks with first time customers. Thank you for your inquiry.

Jay Fisher

[Of course, I never hear from them again, as they're only interested in credit card scams.]

Hi,

I will want to order from you, so i will want to inquire about you humble services

a: Do you accept credit card

b: Do you ship to

Nigeria

so get back to me as soon as possible so that we can proceed.

Yours Faithfully.

Tunde Micheal

This is a typical Nigerian internet scam. By the way, the email address was from Italy. Despite his poor attempt at humility (whose humble services? I'm not humble!), there are some blatant things missing from his email. First he doesn't care what knife he gets, just any knife shipped will do. Sometimes, these letters request dozens of knives. And he's tipped his hand by asking for a credit card purchase. This means he has committed identity theft, and obtained enough information about an individual to either obtain a credit card in his name, or has the cc info already. What he wants me to do is take the bait, accept his credit card (which will initially go through as a purchase, then weeks later be denied), and send him knives. By the time I find out the cc is invalid, he's long gone with my knives. There are lots of makers who've been taken by this scam. I used to answer these letters telling them that I only accept direct wire transfers, or admonish them for their sins, hoping to embarrass them into a relenting, but I realize this is useless, so I just delete the email.

["signature" graphic included with this email submission, a face with some background and some post modern text, all in rather ugly shade of brown. Probably something created in a community college graphics design class.]

Jay,

I was just wondering what it would cost for a dagger and a stand for it that was completely custom? I don't know much about daggers, but am looking at getting one for symbolic purposes. If I presented an artisit design, could you do it? Is your skill level able to pull off something from paper?

Thanks in advance,

Great website and very informative. I would consider a resign though for display. The average person wouldn't have strained so much to find what they are looking for on the site. The content is good.

--S.C.

Hello, S. Thanks for writing.

The price of an art dagger completely depends on the components of the dagger. Also, the finish must be considered, and embellishment, tooling, stand, case, or sheath. There are a lot of options when one chooses a complete custom knife. You can read about these individually on my Custom knife Quote and order page here. I can and do work with clients� designs, but because this entails a lot of drawing, tuning, consideration for geometry, steel types, and general design work, it still requires the design deposit. You can read about the details of the design fee here.

Thank you for your comments about my site. The site is complex; it�s a very complex field of artistry that I�m in. I�m not worried about the �average person� finding their way through my site, my site is geared toward knife aficionados and professionals, and they are very happy with the content and layout. Ah, if this field were only simple enough to have a simple site, with a couple pictures, and about three prices for knives� (smile)

May I be so bold as to offer you some advice, in kind? When you include your graphic with your email, nearly every firewall and modern email program stops your email cold, because of the possibility of the graphic containing malicious code. I had to retrieve your email from beyond my firewall. I almost deleted it� just a head�s up.

Thanks for your interest, and I�d love to see your design.

--Jay Fisher

[ I must have upset them, because I never heard from them again! Oh, well...]

[Here's one that came from a forum posting: a response to a knife picture and description I posted. There's more here than initially meets the eye.]

i don't know man, you've got some nice knives on your site, you may be a very good knifemaker, sorry that i'm saying it, but none of your knives really amazed me, and i felt really confused bout your topic what I don't do..that article on your site sounds really arogant, I'm sorry, it's probably only my opinion...

[This flamer had then erased his email after he'd thought about it. But it was too late, his posting went right into my inbox, because I had subscribed to my own post. So I looked him up and sent an email directly to him asking if he had authored the post. He was emailing from the Czeck Republic.] His reply:

yes, it was, but after a few minutes, i deleted it and was going to write you via e-mail, there's no need to take my personal opinion to public, it was my (very) honest opinion, i'm sorry if you feel insulted, but the part i was talking about really made me little confused, you know.

O.B.

[I answered.]

Mr. B.,

Thank you for answering my query. I understand that my style of knives are not appealing to everyone, just as your knives are certainly not. As a professional, I will refrain from evaluating your work with my own very honest opinion, after having seen it. [His knives were not just a beginner's work, they were poor beginner's work on kit knives.]

There should be no confusion about the part of my website called "What I do and don�t do." I tried to put in clear and sometimes humorous terms what it is I do, to help those who are looking for services I do not offer. [I simply did a user name search and found out that he had wanted someone to help him make multi-bladed folders, and he evidently took exception to my clear refusal to offer a service he wanted.]

You are entitled to your personal opinion, just as I am. The opinions posted on my website are my own, based on my own 27 years of knife making and thousands of knives. If someone does not agree with my views, and does not find answers there, then he may look for opinions elsewhere. [He felt the need to slam my work, because of his own frustration by not being able to find anyone to help him.]

I also do not post pictures and information on knife forums for the approval and evaluation of other knifemakers, or those who try to be. I post because friends and clients are genuinely interested in what I am doing, and they have asked me to post. [Yeah, like I was waiting on his opinion and approval after 2000 sold knives.]

In doing so, I do not court or invite flaming emails, and I do not send these types of comments to others, and I appreciate that same respect from others.

Thank you, Jay Fisher

[He felt the need to respond further.]

ok, I'm sorry to make you feel insulted, that's never going to happen again Have a nice day

O. B.

[Mr. B. does not have the power to make me feel anything, though he thinks he does. He was, however, insulting, for no other reason than I don't offer a service that he wanted. He claims in his profile that he is a law student, and unfortunately, he will be an ultimate failure at any endeavor he tries, because he doesn't understand that insulting someone will not help you get what you want. The world is full of these people. They go through life in misery, trying to bring others down to their level, in order to feel better about themselves. I'm sure, dear reader, that you can list several that you know and have to deal with...]

[Here's another one from a fine foreign manufacturer. I sometimes wonder what American companies they are making knives for]

Dear Sirs, [they're talking to me, with respect, I like that!]

We, J***I DEVELOPMENT CO., LTD., specialize in knives, like hunting knives, pocket knives or decorate knives even Parts for gun. [which gun?] We use fine blanking way to fabricate knives. [ah, yes, grasshopper, the rare and mysterious "blanking way." I've heard of it, but I thought it was only a myth-]

That is why our quality is the best. [no doubt, with all that blanking going on] We do not have low end knives except quality ones.[Quality and cheap? Where do I sign up?] Like some famous brands are our customers. [What? Who?] Except knives, we also can offer any parts for knives. [Famous brand parts for American knife factories, I'm sure]

Also, you can visit our website www.j******h.com and you will know more about us.[Okay, the website does not exist. But have no fear, your favorite knifemaker has located the company and discovered that they do indeed make knife blades, parts, and components for US factories! This junk might just be in that factory knife you bought! They're located, of course, in Taiwan, Republic of China. How about that? And they do talk about the mysterious blanking way. What it appears is that they use saws to cut out material rather than a plasma cutter.]

If you have any question about knives, just advise us. Also, your custom design is welcome. [as long as you order over 100,000 units]

Have a nice day !!!! [I think they stole this one from the 1970's]

[This came in via an email. Though this guy had to read my specific request to read "What I do and don't do" on my site before emailing, he was sure he was special and I would make the handles he wants for his knives, which I specifically do NOT do.]
Jay,

   I like your work. I found your site while doing a google search for orbicular jasper. I read a lot of your material about gemstone knife material. I have been a rock hound for decades, a mineral dealer for a few years and for a short while, a seller of meteorite Damascus. Shortly, I will come into possession of two or three full tang, ground meteorite Damascus knife blanks. I have also acquired some very nice chrysoprase, Morgan Hill Poppy Jasper (orbicular) and Big Sur Jade that I would like to fashion into knife handles for this Damascus. Unfortunately I do not have the equipment or skills to accomplish this task. I would like to send you the knife blanks and precut lengths of gemstones for you to fashion into knives. You would have to add bolsters and grind and polish the handles. All you need to tell me are the dimensions of the gem blanks you need for the handle material. I do have a highland park to cut the gem material with. If you can help me with this, I will display the knives at the Blade show in Atlanta this June giving you full credit for the handles. Some idea pf pricing will be nice also.

Thanks, V.P.

[I emailed him back my list of what I do and don't do. It's a very clear professional list; it starts with an apology from me for not being able to do what he wants. I highlight the exact part of the list (that he ignored) so it would be clear to him that I cannot perform the service (putting handles on his blades) that he wants.] He then responded:

Jay,

    thanks for the reply. I failed to read what you don't do before I sent the email. Yes, I have found most knife makers to have egos that will not allow them to work on other peoples stuff. Thanks anyway and have a nice day.

V.

[I could not let the abrasive tone of his comment stand. Who do these guys think they are, that because I won't work for him on his pet project it's because of my big ego? What, I don't have the right to say no?] I replied:

Hello, V.

I don�t ordinarily respond to letters such as yours, but I feel you deserved a more detailed explanation, as obviously you�re a bit miffed about it. It is not an EGO that prohibits me from working on other people�s stuff, it�s mainly the fact that it would devalue all my previous and future work for my clients. You see, they have invested in my work because it is exclusive, and they intend for the value of the pieces to appreciate over the years, which will happen if I don�t farm out other work to or from projects other than my own. Once a maker starts doing this, the investment value of his pieces drops. It�s really that simple. That�s not fair to previous clients, and I do have a duty to them, as they have invested a great deal of actual money and trust in what I do.

I�m sorry that you have not found a maker to work on your pieces, but I�m confident that you will find one if you just keep looking. Good luck and I wish you all the best.

Jay Fisher

[He had to have the last word]:

Jay,

   life is too short to be miffed.

V.

[And yet somehow he was...]

[Here's another nice foreign company that wants to help me out. Interestingly, it's a carbon copy of an earlier request from another company...]

Dear Sirs,

We, J*** DEVELOPMENT CO., LTD., specialize in knives, like hunting knives, folding knives or decorate knives even Parts for gun. [Oh, yeah? Which gun?] We use fine blanking way to fabricate [again with the mysterious and fine blanking way] knives. That is why our quality is the best. We do not have low end knives except quality ones. [Quality and low end? Like low end quality? Like low quality?] Like some famous brands are our customers. [Like you know, like yeah, man] Except knives, we also can offer any parts for knives. [Except for knives, which, without, there is an exception-]

Also, you can visit our website www.j****h.com and you will know more about us. If you have any question about knives, just advise us. Also, your custom design is welcome. Have a nice day !!!![they end it on such a high note. I think I will have a nice day, after all.]

With best regards, R.S.

[and another nice company from India. They are very careful on their website to state that they do not use child labor. It's interesting that their clients in the west are promoting that attitude, and hopefully, that practice]

Dear Sir,

we are doing dealing with the email for many times.But we are sorry that we have not got any response from to you. [answer me, you foolish westerner!] And we dont know what are the causes for the same. [not only does he chastise me for not answering his email, but is upset that he doesn't know why I don't answer. By the way, this is the first email I've ever received from these guys.] But I want to say to you if you given us chance to serve in your organisation. we will do our work with best satisfaction. If you have any requirement for any order. Then given an opportunity for the bone and horn or sample anything else. [I get the drift, they want to sell me bone and horn. I only hope they come from animals...]

Thanks with regards

Prop [Is he a stage prop? Oooh, he must be the proprietor. Probably couldn't spell that one.]

R.Malik
Speaking of this email: years ago, I got a request from a guy to use a human bone on a knife handle. No kidding! He didn't say whose bone it was, and I didn't ask, and our conversation was very short. Makes you wonder, doesn't it? And NO, I didn't take him up on his idea.

[Here's another nice company from Pakistan. This letter was titled "Damascus Kitchen Knife" to lure me into thinking it was an actual inquiry to order a custom knife. Clever, weren't they? They figured that once I opened their email, I would be hooked, and have to use their services. I originally tried to include the letter in the original font styles, but they were so mixed and varied and rare that it crashed my web site developing program! I had to convert the typeface to a standard font, so the email looses some of its .... glamour.]

Dear Sir,

We have pleasure to introducing you ourselves as Manufacturers & Exporters of all sorts of Damascus Knives & Hunting knives, Swords, Cutlery Kitchen knives & Axes, Full Wooden Sword [I guess they only have one of those], Leather and Stainless Steel Helmet [only one helmet, too. Sounds nice though, I could use it while I ride my Triumph motorcycle...], Scissors & more new designs of all above [Designs that are newer than when I mentioned them just a second ago in this email!] Items which are specialized of the best selected durable materials under the skilled workmanship and an expert supervision in our own FACTORY. ["factory" is capitalized, in other words screamed out as if that will seal the deal. Evidently, they don't know what I think of factories.] We guarantee for our quality as every Pieces thoroughly checked at every stage. [just like this email was checked, edited, and checked again]

Our product are fine in quality and the prices are most attractive. We sincerely hope that we could establish business relations with you. [don't hold your breath, Naveed]

Please visit our website:- [removed. I'm jealous of them and their selected durable materials]

We would have the pleased to receive your inquires for our products. We pray for you and your company. [that's nice. I could use all the help I can get. I wonder who they pray to...]

Awaiting your prompt reply [and I'd better be prompt about it!]

Best wishes,

Naveed

(Export Manager

FULL SERVICE ENTERPRISES

Factory: G.T Road, Opp. Grid Station,

Wazirabad,52000. Pakistan
[okay, they included several links in the email to their website, but none of them worked, I guess because the font was so bizarre. I did hand-type the website address, because I just had to see. It was the worst sort of cheap junky crappy imported knives that you could imagine. I'm tempted to include a link just so you can laugh, but that wouldn't be very professional. Okay, if you want to look at them, drop me an email for a giggle]. Oh, no! don't drop me that email. They've folded up their tents and already gone...

[Even though I've gone to great lengths to clearly state what I do and don't do, I constantly get letters and emails from folks who just need a little something. In the past, I've answered these, but at over 40,000 hits a day on this site, I just can't afford the time to answer every request, inquiry, or question. I'll post some of them here, just to give you an idea of what people are asking. Remember that the people who've written have ignored my statement that says I don't answer questions or do research for other people, they've ignored my page clearly stating what I do. They feel they are special, and they deserve my attention and service.... for free. Okay, I'll forgive the kids... but if you look at every one of these, you'll notice that they are directly addressed on my "What I do and Don't Do page." But remember these folks are special! I haven't bothered to correct their spelling; if they don't care then neither do I!]

Mr. Fisher: We are looking for someone in Albuquerque, New Mexico to hand-engrave an aluminum lamp. Where are you located? And could you do this? I look forward to hearing back from you. Thank you. [from a lawyers office!]

I have a custom knife that I left in the sheath too long and the sheath is a bit stained from the brass hilt. Is there any way to clean the sheath stain? Thanks. Weldon

Hi Jay...... This is a shot in the dark, but i am trying to find out about a custom knife maker named red royal. I have a few of his knives and cant find any info on them. I know he must be deceased by now, (too much grinding gave him lung problems). He used to do shows which is where I met him......... any help would be greatly appreciated...........Thanks........... Richard

I was wondering if you have a catalog and a price sheet fo different sizes of wood pieces you have for sale, use for knives and gun grip sizes ? If you do have a printed catalog , please send to R. B. [address deleted] Florida 33541 . I can also be contacted at [email deleted]. Thank you for your time and patience. Sincerely R. B.

Dear Mr. Fisher,

              my name is Stelios and I am writing to you from Greece. I am a collector of historical swords and swords from the Lord of the Rings. I would like you to tell me if you are able to manufacture for me a Byzantine paramyrion. It looks like a scimitar however, it has a slight curve in comparison to Arabian scimitars alghough Arabs had something similar to it. I would also like you to tell me how much it would cost and I would also like to tell you that I want it to be battle ready and what I mean by that is that I want it to have flexibility and hardness at the same time. It is very important for me as a collector to have such a piece in my collection due to the fact that all or most of the swords which are being sold at the time by various companies are not battle ready and are not made by hand. Finally, I have not found any company that sells the particular weapon which I request.

                                                   Yours Sincerely, Stelios C.

Jay, I just wanted a quote on a Zebra Wood knife HANDLE, not the blade! Thanks again, R. M.

i have a friend who also likes daggers and swords. id like to get another cd for him. by the way, the pictures are really good. i collect swords and daggers from bud k. i have the dark demon slayer, dark demon dagger, hell guardian, and the crystal dragon. i also bought some from a convienience store. im working on 2 more swords.    the address is: [address deleted]

Thnx, Shadow Ruler of the Darkness and Shadows. Master of the Night. Hater of the Daylight. Lover of the Blood Red Moon.

I purchased an expensive very high quality Schrade knife 4 years ago and now the handle is broken. I understand that you are the designated person to honor the lifetime guarantee. I know that you must be very busy, so I'll follow up with a call. --J. A. L.

Little Rock, Arkansas

Hi my name is R. P. I have been looking for the master sword, Legend of Zelda Ocarina of time. At this time I can't send pics of the sword because the scanner doesn't work, so when it does I'll send some. I have a lot good pics for you to go by and a pic of the hilt that I hand drawn my self. I just got finished reading most of your web page and I'm flabbergasted at the prices but being a kid so to speak I think I might be able to pay (I hope) although I'm at making money I'm afraid it may take awhile hmmmm. I'll send the details as soon as I can .I'm using my dad E-mail so E-mail him and I'll get it. Thanks for your time

I was wondering if you could give me a quote for this knife design here are the specs

Knife thickness 1/4in knife length 161/2 in knife steel 1095 high carbon alloy steel RC58 --first blade-- (dark gray) Grind flat thickness 1/4in length 31/2 in --second lade-- (light gray) grind convex length 3 in thickness 3/16 in --double milled Saw back blade-- length 4 in --handle-- length 6in material thin layer of hardwood

hi, i'm nobody i'm not going to say that i'm the metal king of metals. even know this has little to do with metals ... ok let me start over.

i'm "nobody" this is a question about a sword ... kind of. you see i'm makeing one a japanese looking one the only problem is the handle they told me $275.00 for a rayskin handle with the 2 metal ends ( iron would be nice ) and the hand guard. now the sword is 1/2 in. thick by a 1 in. It normal steel i made as thick as possible with out being to heavy. any how the handle please tell me you can make a rayskin handle of some type for less. Its a home made sword it should cost that much. i ask because the link said u could when i looked up sword handle.

please reply, thank u,

"nobody"  [he's not "nobody;" he has a name on his email...sigh]

Good Morning: I have a knife as follows:

Case 16 1/2" x 6 1/2"

Knife 13" long with two blades

Blade 8 1/2" x 1 3/4" Hnadle 5 1/2"

Man - In - The - Sea     Sealab II     Commemorating 20 yearsAugust 1965- 1985

Could you indicate your interest and value. Thank you D. P.

Cleaning out my dad's closet I came upon a knife made by the Sidney R. Baxter & Co. of Boston. Carbon steel, rusty and corroded. How can I best clean and get in good condition. I see you want me to use silicone car wax, but what will first stop the rusting? Thanks for your time and expert advice. Rmb

This is not a knife I have but I do have some that are similar. My question is what are the ridges on the top of the knife and what are they for. They don't seem sharp enough for a saw but so many knives have them like this. If you could tell me what the heck those ridges are, I would greatly appreciate it.    -db

I will be recieving an elk horn and plan on using it for a full tang bowie. How do you prepare a horn for use as scales. I have never worked with that type of material before so I would appericiate any advice you can give. I was planning on splitting the bone into and do it as I would wood. Will I have to fill the inner pours or stabilize it? Really lost on this one Jay.  Thank you, Trent

Good Morning Jay, I am contacting in hopes of getting some information of a large knife collection that I am going to sell for an estate. The man's name was R.F....he passed away and his wife is wanting to sell his vast collection...all purchased through the Knifemakers Guild. The person that I am trying to contact is J. W...her last address was Utah. The phone number that I have at the present is out of service. She is an engraver that has engraved a number of the knives that we have to sell. I thank you for your time and hope that you can help me with my search. I can send you pictures of the knives that I have to sell if you wish. Thanks so much. Patty

Hello,I read through your "What I do and Don't Do" page, and I didn't see my question listed. I am in the process of leaning to make knives and swords, but have hit a snag. I bought some 2" thick steel to make my own pommel, but my bandsaw wants nothing to do with cutting that. Would you make a pommel if I provided a sketch with dimensions? Thanks so much, C. G.

hello JAY,I wanted to know if you have a paper catalog of the swords you make,If you have one could you send it to me?and one more thing,do you know where can I study or learn how to  work as a swordsmith like you?well,that's all what I wanted to ask you.thank you. G.C.

dear jay: Absolutely amazing work you do................I can't say that I am into knives all that much but I was wondering if maybe you could help me with a question I have . Nepherite from B.C. The dark green and real heavy kind.......Well I have a piece it weighs approx 80-100 lbs do you have any idea what it would be worth? This piece came from Ogden mountain. Well I just thought that i would ask as I really have no idea......................................sincerely yours k. c.

Hello, I am a french studient and I would like to ask you how and where I can learn the art of making knives...Do I have to learn with an artisant or can I learn it in a school ? Thank you very much for your answer

hey my names matthew and i am 15 i just started really getting into knife building and i admire your work as in mine is not as great. i only have a benchgrinder and one inch belt sander to make and sharpin my knives but i would like to upgrade tools i really like making knives for people. all my friends have at least one knife i have made but the only way i can make knives now is grinding every single blade out by hand do you have any sugestions for me about what to use and what i might try. also i was wondering if i could use some of your knife patterns to make knives with. matt

Hi Jay. I've been cutting stone for quite a few years and about 4 years ago I decided to learn silver casting. I don't want to make swords. I used to cut opals, but right now I'm satisfied with pendants, broaches, and rings, plus bracelets have dominated my jewelry thinking for the last several years. I have a Grobet vacuum casting machine, and although it works okay for outgassing investment and RTV molds, the casting side is a nightmare. Almost 4 years of wrestling with it and I still can't reliably cast. I saw your page on Rodger's Sword while I was investigating centrifugal casting machines. I've used a centrifuge a few times in the past, but I wanted to ask you if they could *really* handle a 4 x 6 flask, which it looks like you are using. It also looks like you are using the Rio Grande centrifuge, and that's the one I was thinking of buying. About your Werewolf carving, I wondered if you have gotten into 3D modeling and 3D (CNC) printing? Computers in general are such a pain in the etc. that I don't really recommend them, but if you are already into computers it might be something to investigate. You can create a model in a 3D graphics program (I use Poser version 4, which is ancient) and send the data file to a company that has a 3D printer (such as stereolithography). A few years ago prices were something like $100 per inch, but since so many people have 3D printers now, I'm sure it's cheaper. They send you a 3D plastic part that looks like what you created in the program. You could then make a mold of that part and have lots of wax copies to modify and experiment with. It would be a huge time saver if you were going to use the same part a number of times in the same design, or over time. I'm attaching a gif of the Poser wolf. Of course, in Poser, this is a true 3D object. You can move its head, eyes, neck, paws, etc. I think the Poser program is now up to version 8, so they probably have a better looking wolf. If I ever get a digital camera, I will take some pictures of my opal inventory and maybe you will trade me a nice knife for a nice opal. -Dan

Hello,

my name is sarah H. Right now i am studying at unitec, it's my first year and i am doing the 'certificate in design skills'.

One of the feilds that we are studying is product design. in product we have a final assignment, which is to re-design any knife of our choice. i have chosen a cheese knife( the kind that has the folk type end.)In this assignment we are required to write a report on the manufacturing processes and materials used to produse our selected knife. I have searched the internet as far as my paiteints will take me, and haven't found anything of any use to me. So if you could please send me as much(the more the better) information on the processes and materials of a knife it would be greatly appretiated. Thank you, Please write back, ASAP

sarah

Hello Mr. Fisher,

I hope you do not mind me putting you a question. My name is K. K. I am a hobbyist knifemaker in Czech Republic. The other hobby I have is collecting minerals and semiprecious stones. This is the reason I immediately started admire your work when I first saw it on your webpage.I have a little project in mind and would like to ask you for advice.I would be very glad if you can share your experience with me.I am doing a knife for myself. I have a damascus scandi type blade. Ihave been thinking about using flat piece of red jasper for a bolster on this knife. My first question - do you think this is generally a good idea? I think about possibility of chiping the bolster, but I am not sure about it. Second question - can you give me some clue how to make square hole for the tang in the stone plate? Which toos you use. I have a dremel and some diamond cutting wheels. and some diamond dental attachments. But the tang hole is a tricky work as it has to sit flush on the tang and ricasso. Moreover there is small radius where the blade goes to tang. I would like to make the hole in the bolster perfect. How you did the handle on your "New Orleans" Dagger with the Green Aventurine, Rare Blue Aventurine spacers? I have a friend who cuts stones with diamond wheel and polishes them. He can make me the plate of jasper. Sorry if this email is going to bother you. Thank you in advance, K.K.

[Remember, in order to email me, these people have completely ignored the page detailing what I do and don't do. They can't email me without seeing the page link. The scary thing is (as one friend reminded me), these people might vote!]

Hello sir, my name is J.M. I am 24 yrs old and have always enjoyed the art of creation since I was a young boy. Iv always been interested in the beauty high polished rock and minerals, metals, and even glass. But lately Iv been really involved in the creation of knives, and has developed as my dream to start a knife business.I am currently taking scrap metal from an arbor shop I work at to make knives. I'd like to thank you most of all for the freedom of your work to the public and info you've provided on your website for all the knife hounds out there. you've been a great inspiration to the beginning of my new legacy in knife making. So to get to what I've been waiting ask you is, as a beginner in knife making, I was hoping you could spare me any of your knowledge as to how I could get started cheep. At the moment all I have is a 4 1/2" right angle grinder and a 16" bench grinder. What do I need. Id also really appreciate it if you could send me your brochure. p.s. your distant student j.

Jay,    I am wanting to make my first high quality knife. My question is what type of steel would you recomend to make the blade. I will be using this knife for skinning animals (Elk,Deer). I would most likely do some whittlin of sorts with it. I obviously want the blade to hold an edge for a while. I am thinking of 3/16" thick D2 tool steel. Is this something you would recomend? Do you have any thoughts on Titanium? Also I would like to know what you would use to attach the scales to the full tang blade (Pins, ect.).

Thank's in advance, Charlie

Dear Jay Fisher: My name is T. M. I attend Douglas Anderson school of the arts. I am doing a research paper on sword/swordsmithing,and l need professional to interview. If you could answer a few question for me, l would greatly appreciate it. And if all possible, could you respond by 03/01/04. Thank you very much.

*In your opinion, which part of a basic sword is the hardest to make ( the blade, hilt, cross-guard, or pommel)?

*Which part of the blade is the hardest to make ( the edge, fuller, ricasso, or squared-off back)?

*Which is harder to make a double-edged sword or a sword with one edge and a squared-off back, and why?

*The forte is said to be the strongest part of the blade,it this true and are swords with large forte stronger than ones with small forte?

*It is said that swordsmith are fond of the ricasso, is this true and why?

*Which do you think is better visually and structurally better a sword with a short or long ricasso?

*The fuller is sometimes called the blood channel, but l have heard that is has nothing to do with blood. What is it real prepose, and how did it get the name blood channel?

Thank you very much for your time.

T. M. PS. May l quote you in my report? thank you very much.

Mr. Fisher, Hello my name is B.N. and I am a 17 year old Missouri native that is just getting into knife making. I have made a knife out of an old lawnmower blade and enjoyed it a great deal. I am about 70 percent positive that I am going to go into the military after I graduate high school with aspirations of becoming a Green Beret.   Therefore I would like to try to make a knife that I can carry into battle with me. If you would not mind could you give me ideas of what type of a knife would be best, what materials to use from start to finish and where to get them? Being a novice at this trade and knowing that my life may very well rest in the quality of the materials and shape of the knife I don�t feel comfortable making these decisions. Thank you for your time and I hope to be hearing from you soon.

I'm a student at k. midlle school in Eugene, Oregon. I am researching knifemaking as a career and I am hoping that you can take the time to answer a few questions for me. If that's OK you can just reply to Mr. N., my teacher, whose computer I am using. If you don't have the time that's OK.

1 Why is this career important to our society?
2 What kinds of people do you work with when you do this career?
3 How do you work with them?
4 what are the most important tools?
5 What is the most fun about knifemaking?
6 What is not fun about knifemaking?
7 What is your favorite thing in the job?

8 Did you have formal training if so what?

9 How did you learn your skills?
10 What kind of materials do you need?
11 What kinds of knives do you make?
12 How do you make really strong swords and knives?
13 Which do you prefer to make, sheath knives or folding knives? Why?
14 What are your favorite handle designs?

15 What are the basic steps in making a knife?

Thank you vary much from K.B..

Hello Jay, I have not had the opportunity to own one of your knives but would certainly like a catalog if you provide them. The reason for this email is that I have purchased 2 Randall knives that I got through eBay. Although they advertise they were in mint condition I have found it is rarely the case. Anyway one has signs of pitting from what I think is rust then it was cleaned up and a heavy coat of oil was put over the blades so the blemishes could not be seen by the photos. Regardless I am happy to own the knifes but I need your advice in how to clean the blades up, both have scratches from improper sharpening and as I said before some pitting. I am hoping you may know a trick or two on how I can remove these scratches etc and get them in a much better condition, it bothers me that a great tool and a work of art has been treated badly considering the work put into them by professionals like yourself. I do not know much about knives, just that I enjoy a very good quality tool that is dependable and I like taking care of them also. I have not much experience making knifes just a little stock removal from planner blade that I know are very high carbon due to not even being able to get any drill to get a hole in it. I know ,I have to get the temper out first but I should of thought about that before trying and breaking a couple expensive bits. One more question. I just bought an 2x8 EZE LAP diamond stone, is this a proper stone to use on all my knives? Thanks Jay D. P. Post Falls, Id

Dear sir,

          Staghorn is prohibited as per Wildlife Protection Act in India. What about united states. please give your comment. Thank you, Satish p.

[Remember, in order to email me, these people have completely ignored the page detailing what I do and don't do. They can't email me without seeing the page link. The scary thing is (as one friend reminded me), these people might vote!]

Wich is harder rwl-34 or damascus? And wich would make a better knife that keeps an edge and will last longer? Thank you.

Dear Jay, I am sorry to bother you, but you seem to "know it all" I found a website that showed about four or five ready-made hidden tang handles, like jigged bone, wood, etc.but I have spent a few hours over the past few days, trying to re-find it. I have found several that I have seen before, Northcoast, Jantz, TKS (one of my favorite places to buy materials from), Alpha, Crow, "Jagermeister" (sp?), Track of the Wolf, and I still will be danged if I can find it, they had an excellent supply of guards and pommels, most sell handle scales, but this one had hidden tang handles any ideas of which website I am seeking, which company?Lewis

I am wondering how to identify two swords I have acquired that have been in my family for many years. Is there a good source you can recommend? Vicki

Mr. fisher i was found this dagger during the reconstruction of my house. Dagger was burried deep into the ground. I wonder if he has some value or it is just piece of junk. Sorry for bad english. Mirko

Dr. Mr. Fisher,

Hi. I inherited from my father several very interesting edged weapons. I have minor knowledge of this sort of thing. I thought just maybe you could help me. Do you know German? Neither do I, but I tried to translate what is on this one weapon.

I am an Artist and amatuer photographer. I seem to collect just about anything that interests me.. from fishing lures to all this WW2 stuff my Dad gave me thru the years. Dad passed away last April at the age of 90. Dad inherited these things from his 2nd wife (my stepmother) whose first husband was a surgeon (he died in 1971 at the age of 77) and also in WW1 and WW2. I tend to believe this one dagger (and I am not sure it is even a dagger but don't know what else to call it) could have been the Dr's father's. Are you with me so far? There is so much engraving on it for such a little thing you just wouldn't believe it! I did take photo's of it and the others. Can you help me? Such a mystery! May I send you the photo's.??? I send Jpeg and everything goes thru my NOrton internet security and if you can enlarge to see them- ?? I could send large but won't do that unless you say I can. The other 2 weapons I have are a captured Nazi dagger and a Werth looonnnggggg sword. Also photos. Plus would you please tell me if you get this email? Thank you. Sincerely, K. C.

Dear Mr. Fisher,

I am writing a book on Thomas Jefferson, and in one of the family letters there is a reference to a large hawksbill knife.This was in 1819. Can you tell me what such a knife would have been used for, what one might have looked like then, what would have distinguished it from other knives? Thank you, A. C. Richmond, VA

sir,

ill like to ask where can i perchase s30v steel so i could shape my own knife... do you know if i could buy them in texas? tnx...

Jay,

I was wondering if you may be able to answer a question for me. My husbands father was in the military during WW II 1944. He was presented with a gift from a man in his barracks. It is a double sided dagger and was handmade by, this boys dad, a fellow with the last name of Perez. We cannot make out the first initial. ( ? P. Perez )This dagger is 70 + yrs. old. It also has a leather sheath that covers it. The sheath has Mexico pressed in it. The handle of the dagger appears to be some sort of metal that doesn't tarnish, possibly nickel with a bone, ivory or agate insert. It also has an indian carved head at the end of the handle. I'm not sure what tribe it represents. I would appreciate any information that you may have. Sincerely, J. H.

Hello Mr. Fisher...I am hoping that you can help identify a knife that I have recently aquired, or perhaps point me in the right direction. I've attached a pic of the knife. Thanks in advance. Steve

[Remember, in order to email me, these people have completely ignored the page detailing what I do and don't do. They CAN'T email me without seeing the page link and my request to read it first before they write.

While searhing for information on steels and the qualities to look for in knife blades I happened upon your sight. COOL, I like what I see and was wondering if you have ever made a knife with a gut hook or just a gut hook? I have yet to find a gut hook worth a dime. When field dressing a moose it would be nice to find one that works. thanks for your time:

Mr Fisher I am a young man that has always been interested in the making of the sword. I have no background in the art, but I would like to know if there are class that one should take. I have never seen one at the school's high school or collage's. What should one do if there wanted to make a life of making swords. In your opinion who is the best sword maker(now or in the past.) thank you for your time K. T.

attached is the pic of a dagger found in a vacant land in the coastal regiond(west) of puerto rico it was found 25 years ago by my friends dad , maybe you can help me with this . is about 12 inches long and it appears to have a cat (jaguar type) handle .

any kind of info wold be greatly apprecciated . Thank you E. T.

To: Technical Staff Hello Jay I have worked as a Journeyman Industrial Blacksmith as well as a Historic Blacksmith. Unfortunately I entered the field in the late 70�s. By then, Industrial Blacksmiths were just about extinct in the U. S. The Master Smith retired from the foundry that I worked in due to poor health and I was not blessed with his instruction when I started. My question is: How were the old fashion Wood Saws formed, heat-treated and tempered? The good ones were hardened through the entire blade: Yet; there was no warp, twist or �dimpling�. If you could research your heat-treat information and share the information with me I would greatly appreciate it. Sincerely; V. R.

Was just reading over your sight; the part about not storing knives in their sheaths. I heard the tannin in leather interacts with the stainless steel to form "pitting" in knives. I've seen this . I also can understand the idea of knives needing to breathe and therefore would rust.. I recently purchased some knives from a company in Finland. Their sheaths are lined with a stiff plastic liner and the manufacturer says, always store your knife in this sheath. Have you ever thought of cementing a plastic liner into your sheaths? Apparently it works. If you already heard of this, do you have any idea where one could purchase plastic liners? Your sheathes by the way are beautiful examples of craftsmanship. I was looking for a simple sheath for a dagger. I can't afford yours although I'm sure they are worth it.

Hello, my name is R.C.

I'm hoping I came to the right place for this. For years, I have been fascinated w/ a sword from my childhood. I have always wanted a replica of He-man's power sword, like the one used in the original 1980's cartoon classics. I searched online for someone that has either made one, or someone that could custom make one. I did find a sword, but it's modeled like the one used in the new He-man series. So I was a little disappointed!!

Here is a picture of the sword. I have more pictures of it, if needed to show more of the dimensions, and even cartoon footage that really shows the depth. Now the true size of the sword, I really can't say how big it should be. I guess you'll have to compare him to a real, person, and start from there!! Also I'd like to custom make She-ra's sword. It's basically identical to He-man's except hers has a jewel in the middle of it. It's like a clear or very light blue jewel that goes through the center and is visible on both sides of the sword. I do have pictures of it too. Well I hope you can help me w/ this. If not, maybe you know someone that can. I've searched for a long time for a master sword smith that can bring this great legend to life!!! I knoww there are a lot of people that wopuld love to own this sword!!! Thanks for your time, R.

jay i am looking for a custom sword to spark fire in my eyes every time I look at it. Suzanne E.

Hi, Just a quick question. I'm looking to make my own custom knife, but have no experience at bladework. I dont need any of the wood or gems, just the metal. In essence just the sharp metal. I'm looking for 440c, 3 inch blade with a 4 inch tang. A quick price estimate would be appreicated. Thanks

[Remember, in order to email me, these people have completely ignored the page detailing what I do and don't do. They can't email me without seeing the page link. The scary thing is (as one friend reminded me), these people might vote!]

[Here's another credit card scam inquiry. They want whatever products I'm stupid enough to send to them, they have a stolen credit card, and are ready to rip off the stupid American knife maker. To address me as Dear turns my stomach-]

Dear,

We are from Singapore. We have a plan to order some products from you. Can you ship to Singapore via FedEx, UPS ? If you can, we would like pay my order with credit card, are you accept credit card ? Please confirm us as soon as possible. Best Regard

[Here's yet another credit card scam inquiry. Do you suppose I get lots of these? Yes, I do, and they're all pretty much the same. They don't know or care who I am, or even what I sell. They simply mass email to web and email addresses hoping to snag some prey on their hooks. The questions alone give them away. "Just send anything, we'll be happy to give you a stolen credit card number and get anything we can to sell on the black market." I left the guy's name on this one, but it's probably an alias...]

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am looking for website and i want to order your Product,

But Before I continue my order, I have some question below :

1. Can you Ship to Singapore ?
2. Do you accept major credit card as the payment ?
3. Do you use shipping method for FedEx or UPS freight service?

I'm waiting for your confirmation as soon as possible.
Looking forwards to doing bussines with you. Thank's in advance.

Best Regards,
Dennis Jocelyn
Singapore

[they don't want to bother with a lot of email and back and forth information or details about their order; they just want to know if you'll be gullible enough to send them some stuff]

Remember, My responses are in green text. My thoughts are in green bold italics. I won't bother correcting their spelling or punctuation, it gives the emails such an original flavor-

Here's another block of emails from folks who have completely ignored the page detailing what I do and don't do. They can't email me without seeing the page link. The scary thing is (as one friend reminded me), these people might vote!

Hi Jay,

I'm gonna take a chance, and I'm a woman, so I guess the "be a man" doesn't apply. I have made Cabochons for a while. I do have a complete shop, or so I thought until I tried making a handle for an existing blade. Your knife on page 1 #2 (brazillian agate) has an inside curve. How do you do that? I have a trim saw, (I can only make straight cuts) and I have a Diamond Pacific 6 wheel cabbing machine. I even tried my husbands Fordham with "some" diamond blades, but even if I could get the inside curve cut correctly, how do you shape and polish an inside curve? I have other equipment I'll list in case it will help, but I at least can't figure this out. I have a 16" Covington slab saw, a Covington flat lap polisher, Sphere maker (covington, I think). Thanks if you have time.

Carole F.

I really feel for Carole. She's working hard, trying to finish those pesky gemstone handles, but she just can't get those inside curves. If I would only just give her the secret recipe of technique, results would happen. It's taken me decades to learn how to do this. Practice, practice, practice. Read and study lapidary carving books. Practice some more. But leaning on your femininity to be given the answers? Say it isn't so...

Dear Mr. Fisher

My name is L. M. I am a student at T. university studying art, specifically art dealing with metal, such as jewelry, decorative blacksmithing, and of course art in your field. This year I will be allowed to do something that I have loved since I was young, to make blades as art. Unfortinately, thought I have read many books and have tried many times on my own, I have never really done anything hat I would consider well crafted. I was wondering if you would be willing to allow me to visit you for a couple of hours and chat about what it is that you do? I would also like to, if you don't mind, take a look around your shop and possibly ask questions about how you do your work. I will understand if you are too busy, or unable to do this. Just know that I would very much appreciate learning more about the logistics involved and any other advice you could offer. I greatly admire your work and appreciate your time.

Thank You, L.M.

Hello, Mr. M.

I'm sorry, as quoted on the web site, I do not teach knife making. Due to liability issues and the extent of ongoing projects, I also cannot accommodate visitors in the studio. Also, you'll find most of the answers you seek on my website, more than I could convey verbally in a few hours.

Your best bet is to acquire some of the many books on custom knife making available, and study and make knives. It sounds like you are in the right courses to become a fine metals artist.

Good luck on your journey!

Jay Fisher

[At least Mr. M. is polite. A few hours of my time taken away from clients who've paid for my time is a small price to pay for educating a metals arts student. Wait a minute. Isn't the university he's attending getting paid for that? Why aren't they answering his questions about a metal arts career? What does the university professor get paid for, anyway? And doesn't that prof get paid more than I do? Much more, with bennies? Evidently, the university has no real world information on what is one of the oldest professions known to man: making knives and cutting tools. Not to worry, I'll be answering a lot of his questions in my coming book. Oh, no, I just reread his email. He hasn't had any luck with books. How will a "visit" help him create something "well crafted" on his own? That one has me stumped.]

Hi,

I have a 6" / 16 oz walrus tusk that I would like to sell.  I had a verbal appraisal several years ago and was told that this piece is over 50 yrs old.  I found this in my grandmother's possessions which I received after her death.

Thanks, L. T.

[Walrus tusk is a tricky item, mostly illegal all across the country. The only people who can be legally in possession of non-fossil or partially fossilized walrus tusk are Native Americans. Though her piece of tusk may be over 50 years old, how do you prove it? Possession of this material opens one up of all kinds of liability issues.]

Hi Jay .

Greetings from New Zealand Great site ! I realize you time is precious , but just a query . Bought a knife Recently (Pic attatched ) Rather Heavier than I wanted ,, but so well made couldn't resist and it has a Copper filet at the base of the spine , Why ?

All I could think was to hit if trying to cleave a bone or the like .

Regards Bill

I know it's a stretch to say this has to do with your knife making, but you showed up on Google when I went looking for people who make knives out of sawzall blades. [What?] I started making knives out of them last year, but given the hardness of the steel, I can't find anything that will actually put a fine edge on them. Now I'm up to cutting blanks out of circular saw blades, but the steel doesn't seem a whole lot softer. I like knowing that whatever edge I do put on them is going to last, but that doesn't really help if the edge isn't worth having. I was wondering if you remembered what you used.

E.P.

[Oh, I get it. He's talking about when I just started making knives back in the late 1970's when I was still a teenager. Whew. Had me concerned there for a bit associating me with making knives out of sawzall blades.]

Dear Sir, We hope you are well as us. We are the real manufacturer of camel bone and buffalo horn knife handle. We have sent many e malis But you did not any reply. We will give you offer with best prieces. If you like any samples it.Please tell me. I will send. Please confirm Best Regards Rashid m.

[I had no idea that bones were manufactured. Wonder what kind of machine is used to make bone? And I do want the best prieces...]

What a self involved dick.

[yes, I get these emails too. Anonymous addresses, sometimes threatening. Why, of course I'm "self-involved" on the website domain www.jayfisher.com that is about me and my work... what, I should be writing about ... you?]

Sir Me and a buddy have made 7 knives to send to a combate unite at guam andersen afb   would like to cold blue the blades any help would be graet . what kind and best way of doing it   thanks D. K.    My son is in the unit

Hi Jay, I am just learning knife making, and right now working with deer antler for handles. Can you give me any info on suppliers for - Stick Fast glue, antler/ horns, leather, and knife blanks, and guards etc. The only catalog I have so far is Jantz supply. Any info is greatly appreciated. Thanks, Fred, Your knifes look beautiful, but out of my league right now. Perhaps one day I can learn how to make one with a gem handle. Thanks Again. Fred. I will be reading more of your site on my days off from my regular job.

Hello,

Could you tell me where i can go in florida to learn the art of sharpening knives etc. Thank You,
W.W.

HI, nice work. I have a question about quenching a 17" kukri blade that I am making. I know that some people use water and pour it on just the edge, or you could use clay and put it on the back of the knife to harden just the blade. I guess I am wondering what you would recamend to a first timer?  So how to quench the blade to a hardness of 59 over the whole curve of the blade.

thank you for any help you can give, Steve

Mr. Fisher,

    I came across your page while searching for custom sheaths and scabbards. Your page is wonderfully executed... and your work is amazing. All I can say is that I envy your position of being able to build or create anything with an edge or without and even, in so doing, take all aspects and processes under your own two hands.

At first, in all honesty, reading some of the text on your page, i found it to be prideful. I took a look at your work and also at the techincal aspects you've posted on your page, and I must say, I feel you validate the claims, thus far. "Best on the planet," and such, I'm sure is the most constant opinion of any of your previous customers.

    I guess all I really mean to say is that your work is wonderful and your site isnt too shabby either, but most of all... I wish I had half the skill.

Thanks, sir, and fare well, J.

Yes, I'm proud of my work. So are my clients. Okay, NOWHERE on my site does it say "Best on the planet, and such." The recognition of "Best Living Knife Maker" was an honor by The Best of the West magazine. I did not solicit them for this recognition, it came out of the blue. Their judgment is their committee's own subjective opinion, and other makers have been so honored over the years. They clearly state why they recognized my work. Gees, am I supposed to ignore the recognition? At least this guy thinks my work is decent.... sigh.

hey jay i want a curved knife you know the shape of a throat with a black rubber handle and a full tang how much would it cost i dont have any money now but i still want to know please

                                    p.s. you are the best knife craftsman ive ever seen!
                                        sincerely j.c.

[Shape of a throat? Uh, some people shouldn't have knives.]

There was a posting on one of the knife forums, where a new maker was trying to find out how to use gemstone on a knife handle. Someone suggested my work. Another member cut and pasted this text from my "What I do and Don't do" page: "This is not a tutorial site, no matter what you may see here. There are a never ending amount of questions people have, and they figure that since I have such a voluminous site, I'm bound to know the answer to their technical knife questions. I probably do, but if I answer any of those emails, I'll invite a flood of questions and answers, all which cost precious time and do nothing but benefit what could be a competitor! How crazy is that?"
Another member took exception to the comment posted on MY OWN SITE! His post:

I guess Jay Fisher isn't as willing to help out as some others. Remind me not to buy anything from him, not that the knives he makes appeal to me.

[How dare I not help out other makers. After all, isn't that what Jay Fisher exists for, to answer their questions and make their lives easier by giving up what he's struggled to learn over all these years? Is that so much to ask? And if my knives don't appeal to this guy, why is he even on my site looking at them?]
[Someone went on to give the advice to use