Forging A Classic Hidden Tang Belt Knife, Elk Antler Shed Handle - Blacksmithing And Knifemaking

I want to make a classic looking belt knife. I'm using 52100 steel and elk antler shed. The guard and butt are brass.
First, I'll cut pieces of stock from a bar of steel and then forge the blade from this. After forging a series of heat treatments are employed for optimum steel condition prior to hardening, and finally tempering. This makes a tough blade that holds an excellent edge, and sharpens easily.
Next, I'll grind the blade to finished dimensions using my KMG belt grinders. This process takes practice to achieve an even and consistent bevel on either side of the blade. After grinding, hand sanding creates a finished look that is only achieved by hand, giving the blade a truly heirloom quality fit and finish.
The guard and butt are made from brass stock, and must be carefully fit to the blade. This is also time consuming and tedious, but the results are worth it.
Finally, the main handle is installed. Antler or "stag" is a timeless knife handle material that's been used for hundreds of years, and I'm using a piece of elk shed for this knife.

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