I’m interested in teaching a class on making a letter opener from 1/2 inch square stock. It will allow me to qualify makers on the DMS cutoff saw, KMG, induction forge and hydraulic press tools in the blacksmithing area. It will also involve a little anvil time to put a point on the stock before using the press. (Although, you can use the hdraulic press to put a tip on the stock, too) As an option we can put a twist in the shank of the letter opener using the post vise, turning wrench and the induction forge.
Recently, we’ve been making chisels in this class, but we could also make letter openers in about the same amount of time. The only real difference between a letter opener and a knife is the sharpness and durability of the blade so we will be using mild steel for the project. A letter opener doesn’t have to hold an edge like a regular knife blade. We can discuss what steels would be more appropriate for a more durable and edge holding blade.
If you would find this project more to your liking than making a chisel look for it to appear on the calendar in July some time. It will likely replace the current chisel making class.
I did, however, just put another blacksmithing qual class to make chisels, last night. It should appear on the schedule in 72 hrs from almost midnight last night. The class will be taught Tuesday June 21st at 7:30PM.
