Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 Review

Reviewing the Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155: Beyond Marketing

Navigating the world of blank knife blades can be a surprisingly complex endeavor, especially when you’re looking for a reliable foundation for your own creations. My search for a versatile, yet affordable, blade led me to the Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155. This particular model, from Knifemaking, presents itself as a straightforward, full-tang stainless steel blade designed for the aspiring or seasoned knifemaker. The allure was simple: a compact, ready-to-handle canvas for customization without breaking the bank.

My need arose from a growing backlog of custom handle projects. I found myself with an abundance of materials but a shortage of suitable, economical blade blanks that didn’t require extensive modification before starting the fun part – shaping the handle. Many premium blanks were simply overkill for the types of EDC (Everyday Carry) and utility knives I typically create for friends and family, and cheaper, unbranded options often came with disappointing quality control. I was looking for something in the middle, a blank that offered good value and a solid starting point.

First impressions of the BL155 were positive, if understated. The satin finish on the 3.5-inch blade felt decent, and the full tang construction was immediately apparent, offering confidence in its structural integrity. It felt like a substantial piece for its size, a good balance for smaller, more nimble knife designs. While I considered a few generic, unbranded stainless steel blades from online marketplaces, their inconsistent reviews and lack of specific details gave me pause. Ultimately, the Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 seemed to strike the right chord between perceived quality and accessible pricing. My initial reaction was one of quiet satisfaction; it felt like a sensible choice, a tool that was ready to be put to work.

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

First Use Experience

My testing environment for the BL155 has primarily been my workshop bench and various field-testing scenarios that mimic common utility tasks. I began by fitting a simple, ergonomic handle made from stabilized walnut and brass pins. The initial shaping of the handle material revealed the blade’s ability to withstand moderate pressure without flexing, a promising sign for its intended purpose.

During this initial setup, I also took the opportunity to perform some light duty cutting tests. This included slicing through various materials like thick cardstock, paracord, and even some thin leather scraps. The blade performed admirably, producing clean cuts without any noticeable snagging. Its relatively compact size made it easy to maneuver for detailed work, and the satin finish proved resistant to minor shop dust and fingerprints during this phase.

There were no major surprises or quirks encountered during this initial phase. The blade’s profile is straightforward, and its intended use as a blank for customization meant that its primary function was to be a stable and robust base. The lack of any pre-drilled holes or complex features meant it was perfectly suited for immediate handle work, which is exactly what I wanted.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use and several more handle projects completed, the Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 continues to impress with its resilience. It’s become my go-to blank for a specific range of EDC-style knives that require a balanced and reliable blade. The stainless steel has held up remarkably well; despite being exposed to various workshop environments, including occasional contact with light moisture and common shop solvents, there’s been no sign of rust or significant corrosion.

The full tang design has proven its worth, with no hint of loosening or weakness developing between the blade and any of the handles I’ve attached. Even after sharpening it multiple times to a razor’s edge, the steel retains its keenness well. The satin finish, while not completely impervious to fine scratches from heavy use, has maintained its aesthetic appeal and doesn’t detract from the overall presentation of the finished knives.

Maintenance is pleasantly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and a light oiling, standard practice for any blade, keeps it in pristine condition. Compared to some cheaper blanks I’ve used in the past, which sometimes exhibited an undesirable ‘orange peel’ texture or inconsistent grind lines, this BL155 has been a consistent performer. It doesn’t have the exotic steels or complex geometries of premium blades, but for its intended purpose, it performs reliably and without fuss.

Breaking Down the Features of Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155

Specifications

The Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 measures an overall length of 8.25 inches (20.96cm), with a blade length of 3.5 inches (8.89cm). It is constructed from stainless steel, featuring a satin finish. A crucial aspect of its design is the full tang, meaning the steel extends the entire length of the handle, providing superior strength and balance. The total weight of the blade blank is approximately 0.38 lb.

These specifications translate directly into practical benefits for the user. The 3.5-inch blade length is ideal for versatile everyday carry knives, offering enough cutting surface for most tasks without being overly cumbersome. The stainless steel composition ensures good corrosion resistance, making it suitable for a variety of environments and reducing the need for constant, intensive maintenance. Its full tang is perhaps its most significant feature for durability, as it significantly reduces the risk of the blade breaking under stress, a common failure point in lesser designs. The 0.38 lb weight contributes to a well-balanced feel when a handle is attached, preventing the finished knife from feeling too blade-heavy or handle-heavy.

When compared to some smaller, more specialized blades, this 3.5-inch model offers a greater degree of utility. It strikes a happy medium, avoiding the limitations of very small blades and the bulk of larger ones. The satin finish is also a practical choice, as it doesn’t glare excessively and hides minor scuffs better than a polished finish.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 is to serve as a robust and reliable foundation for creating a finished knife. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The steel takes a keen edge consistently, and once sharpened, it holds that edge through moderate cutting tasks with commendable tenacity. Its performance as a blank means its functionality is directly tied to the skill of the user in shaping its handle and its edge.

Its strengths lie in its simplicity and integrity. The full tang design is a major strength, providing inherent durability that allows users to focus on aesthetics and ergonomics without constantly worrying about structural failure. The consistent grind lines also make the sharpening process straightforward. A minor area for improvement, inherent to any blank, is that the user must achieve the final cutting geometry themselves. This requires skill and the right tools to unlock its full cutting potential.

Considering its price point, this blank far exceeds expectations for basic functionality. It reliably fulfills its role as a dependable starting point for custom knife projects, offering a level of quality that belies its accessible cost.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 is intentionally utilitarian, focusing on form following function. The 8.25-inch overall length is achieved through a substantial handle tang section, providing ample space for various handle materials and grip styles. The satin finish is applied evenly, presenting a clean, professional look that serves as an excellent base for custom embellishments or simply for a no-frills, functional appearance.

In terms of ergonomics, the blade blank itself is not designed for direct handling but rather for attachment of a handle. The ample full tang area is perfectly suited for creating comfortable and secure grips. The straight profile of the blade makes it predictable and easy to work with when grinding bevels or creating the final edge geometry. There are no sharp or uncomfortable edges on the blank itself, ensuring safety during the handle-making process.

Practical design details include the consistent width of the tang, which simplifies handle material shaping. The rounded spine of the blade adds a touch of user-friendliness for when the knife is eventually in use. The overall feel of the steel is solid and dependable.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability for a knife blade blank, the Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 is built to last. Made from stainless steel, it is inherently resistant to corrosion, a significant factor in long-term usability, especially when compared to carbon steels that require more diligent care to prevent rust. The full tang construction is the cornerstone of its durability, ensuring that the blade is mechanically sound and unlikely to fail under typical use, provided the handle is securely attached.

Maintenance is straightforward. For the blade itself, standard cleaning with soap and water followed by drying is sufficient. Occasional light oiling can provide an extra layer of protection, particularly if the knife will be exposed to harsh environments. Unlike some lower-quality blanks, the stainless steel used here does not tend to develop pitting or discoloration easily.

The primary concern for durability lies in the handle attachment, not the blade itself. Ensuring a strong bond between the tang and the handle material is paramount for the longevity of the finished knife. There are no inherent failure points in the blade blank itself beyond what would be expected from any steel tool under extreme misuse.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 is intentionally minimalist, coming as a single blade blank ready for customization. It does not include any accessories in its boxed packaging, which is typical for this type of product. Its primary customization lies in the selection and shaping of handle materials, such as wood, Micarta, G10, or bone.

While no specific accessories are included, its standard dimensions and full tang design make it compatible with a vast array of handle-making supplies available from various crafting and knifemaking vendors. Users can choose from an extensive range of epoxies, pins, liners, and decorative elements to personalize their knife. The simplicity of the blank means it can be adapted to almost any handle style imaginable, from classic EDC shapes to more specialized ergonomic designs.

The true “accessory” for this blade is the creativity and skill of the knifemaker. There are no proprietary systems or required add-ons, making it an open canvas for personal expression.

Pros and Cons of Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155

Who Should Buy Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155?

The Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 is ideally suited for hobbyist knifemakers, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone looking to craft their own custom EDC or utility knives. It’s perfect for those who enjoy the process of handle making and want a dependable, cost-effective blade as their starting point. This blank is excellent for beginners learning the ropes of knifemaking due to its straightforward design and forgiving material.

However, serious knife collectors or those seeking high-performance blades for demanding tasks like bushcraft or tactical applications might want to consider blanks made from more advanced steels. If you require a pre-made knife with a finished handle or are looking for specialized blade geometries, this blank would not be the right choice. It’s also not suitable for those needing a sterile, medical-grade instrument.

For those looking to make the most of this blank, I’d recommend pairing it with high-quality handle materials like stabilized hardwoods, durable Micarta, or G10. Investing in good epoxy and appropriate pins will ensure the longevity and structural integrity of your finished knife. A quality sharpening system or stones are also essential to fully realize the blade’s cutting potential.

Conclusion on Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155

The Knifemaking Knife Blade BL155 stands out as a superb option for anyone venturing into custom knife creation. Its robust full tang construction, practical 3.5-inch stainless steel blade, and affordable price point make it an outstanding value proposition. It consistently performs its intended role as a reliable foundation, allowing for a wide range of customization without sacrificing structural integrity.

The $12.95 price tag is more than justified by the quality and utility offered. It’s a testament to Knifemaking providing an accessible entry into the craft. I would readily recommend this blade blank to anyone looking to build their first custom knife or to experienced makers seeking an economical yet dependable option for everyday carry projects. If you appreciate the satisfaction of crafting your own tools and want a solid, no-nonsense starting point, the BL155 is an excellent choice to consider.