Our Bookshelf
Sword / Blade smithing

Listed and reviewed here are some books on Sword or blade smithing that we consider well worth buying. The books are all ones that we own and have therefore read and can honestly recommend. You can also purchase any of the books by clicking on the "purchase" link by the book you are interested in. As time permits I will add more.

Archery    Swordsmanship / Fighting techniques   Period life Sword / Blade smithing
Swords Cannon / Gunpowder  Wood working, etc. Blacksmithing etc.
The Complete Bladesmith, forging your way to perfection

By  Jim Hrisoulas ISBN 0873644301

Jim Hrisoulas has published information some knife makers refuse to share. He not only knows how to create beautiful knives and swords, he also knows how to write, so the novice to experienced knife maker can comprehend the content. He also provides excellent diagrams of the subject matter, from the steels, tools, and techniques, to some trade secrets, it is all here. For the novice to experienced knife maker, there is something for you to discover. The forging basics are spelled out in a clear and concise format. Most anything that has to do with the forging of blades is covered thoroughly in this volume. This Book is a must for the serious forger of the steel blade, and should be required reading. Every time I look at this book I find more of use inside.

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The Master Bladesmith, advanced studies in steel

By  Jim Hrisoulas ISBN 0873646126

Jim Hrisoulas follows his first work with another masterpiece. This advanced study of steel reveals forging secrets that for centuries have been protected by guilds. Never-before-seen instructions, diagrams and photos explain the tricks behind using Japanese mokume gane, differential heat treating, power hammers, and other techniques to make kukris, wavy blades, spears and swords that bear the master's mark. This is a great follow on work and should be required reading.

 

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The Pattern Welded Blade, artistry in Iron

By Jim Hrisoulas ISBN 0873647734

Pattern-welded blades are among the most beautiful and durable creations to emerge from the blade smith's forge. Now, Jim Hrisoulas, reveals the secrets of this ancient craft, from the welding of the starting billet to final assembly of the completed blade. Basic patterns and stunning, complex designs are all shown. This book is not intended for a novice at forge work and it is advised that you read the other two books and practice the techniques therein before starting on pattern welding . This book gives you all the information you will ever need about making forge welded blades. This book is an absolute must have for anyone who wants to start making pattered blades. 

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The Craft of the Japanese Sword

By Leon Kapp, Hiroko Kapp, Yoshindo Yoshihara  ISBN 087011798X

This book takes you on a journey from raw steel to tempered blade, this text presents a visual account of the ancient craft of sword making as practiced in modern Japan. This book taught me a lot but not everything I wanted to know about Japanese sword making. A well researched, written and presented book. Excellent for the beginner and collector alike.

 

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