dude you don't understand how long I have been waiting for another one of your videos. You're undoubtedly the best at this, even watched your episodes of Forged in Fire. Please keep making these, you're highly talented.
I don't know how old you are but the fact that you understand what it takes to make such a beautiful blade and to actually make it is unreal. I'm very impressed!
Indeed this did cross my mind, not also the fact that he has the circumstances to fulfill this art: it would be a different story being born with poor parents in a council flat in Scunthorpe, I'd wonder how well this would have even been able to happen at all. Don't believe everything you see.
@@infinitesimotel This was definitely brought forth by his own determination and curiosity. He said he was self taught and bought a lot of his equipment because of money he made from a show he was on called Forged by Fire. He also mentioned that his first knife was made from very basic/homemade equipment/materials. Being poor does provide a different set of challenges but it does not mean one can't accomplish something like this. It's very limited thinking to think that one can only be truly successful had they been rich. It's more so about the character of the person and their determination, not so much what's in their pockets. Yes, having money makes certain things easier but taking the easier path does not mean you're better. For example, I'm a welder and in tech school we had ok welders. They welded but they weren't anything fancy. But I know how to be more accurate of a welder and read the puddle better because of the equipment I was using. It's easier to do things when you have all the bells and whistles but can be harder or impossible when you don't have the fancy stuff rendering you incapable. Some of the greatest minds and most wealthy people came from poverty. Just look at a ton of historical figures.
@@infinitesimotel Yeah I don't understand this attitude where people defend to death the notion that no one has advantage and privilege and everything is determined by merit and effort that you put in, when it's so clear that half the world runs on nepotism. At the very least coming from wealth gives you a huge advantage to generate your own wealth and success and to pursue your passions, something you will struggle to do if you're from a less fortunate background.
What I like about your video is that you show the whole process. Even the setbacks and difficulties you had. This gives you a much deeper insight into the process and a much better feeling for the work you put into this katana. That's what I hate about most of the others, it seems too easy! Keep it up, you're going to be great!
This never happened to me. I literally watched the whole thing without a pause, like I was frozen in time. The amount of skill, dedication and precision is insane, my mouth got super dry because I had it open the whole time 🤣Really insane job man. Much respect!
Do a differential temper with a torch after you temper in your kiln. You'll never break another blade in your jig again, it will bend 90 degrees back with only a 10 degree offset, and you can temper at lower temperatures for a harder edge which mimics a clay quench but with more spring. Would look something like this: - Temper 325 degrees - Torch back of spine while keeping edge in water - Heat 1/4 of spine to red hot, should result in the blade width in 3 colors, from black near the spine to blueish in middle and no color on the edge. This will produce the ultimate katana. Stay sharp!
Was thinking something similar. He also needs to pay more attention to his grinding. Heating up an area too much or grinding less in certain areas and not having a straight piece to start with can lead to warping as well.
Just a quick pointer. Never sand across the grain. It breaks the consistency of the wood (sanding with the grain smooths the fibres, sanding across the grain cuts the fibres). The process takes longer because you then have to sand with the grain to remove the cross grain scratches and fibre damage. This means you sanded twice for nothing. That said awesome result on the Katana 👌
A beautiful blade! You should be honored, and I appreciate that you're continuing the craft. I have a 3 piece set (Katana, Wakizashi, and Tanto) and while nice - is cheaply made. It's just a decoration, and none of the blades could cut warm butter. So in the end, I just enjoy it for what it is - a memory of my trip to Kentucky.
I think it’s great that you even recorded a failure and worked because nobody else would have done that, they would have just skipped over that. So mad props!
Honestly, I have always been intimidated by making a hidden tang, but after watching several of your videos, it inspires me to do a change up from handle scales to a hidden tang! Hands down, best videos!
Great work, really came out beautiful! You can use a couple of straight boards like a 2x4 to straighten your sword after quench. Burn the blade shape into the wood during your normalization phase. Then after quench immediately clamp the blade in the wood and let it cool to room temp. Much less warping this way. When using your 3 prong straightening jig you can use a map gas or propane torch to heat the back of the blade and relieve stress as you gradually put tension on your jig. Almost like blue backing but I try not to let it get past straw color. You can use the jaws of the vice to protect the blade edge from the torch. I’ve used leather or wet rags clay etc to protect the Temper on the edge if needed.
@@devisiveone seems like they used it right. like to fail really badly, which could be interpreted either as a double negative (therefore not failing), or abysmal used as some form of measure /advert on the level of failure. how did you interpret it?
yeah... 99% of people can't make these katanas even with all the tools. You have to have dedication and knowledge and skill. Most people fail at dedication even with knowledge or skill to do it. So you are not wrong. This is so amazing to watch !! I just watched a previous video of the traditional way of making swords in Japan and then watch this guy do it America like its easy. No sir -- you just have a talent for this along with being a genius.
There was so much to learn from this video. And I love that there was no explanation for the break other than breaks happen sometimes. This video was fantastic all around.
48:26 You might want to consider your placement of your band saw controls here, you're reaching across the table, past the cutting edge of the blade to reach them with probably the softest part of your arm. You do you ultimately, but do protect yourself from the "ah it'll never happen" happening. Great video though, glad you left in the first attempt, and great to see you learn from it. Very cool to see what can be done in such a small space.
Jesse Hu vs Ben Abbott - both undefeated on Forged in Fire. With Jesse's skills & experience having improved so much over the last year, I think you could the prize.
Your work is so beautiful. I love Damascus. I had the opportunity to watch you on forged in fire and was very impressed by your work. Thank you for showing your talent. From a grateful eastern Canadian.
I truly appreciate how much care you gave towards having a proper yokote. And I'm glad to know I'm not the only one obsessed with Ilya's katana builds.
The moment of saying that 'I love my JOB' is precious! it is so satisfying seeing a person one of a few who loves what they are doing! Keep shining my brother! 😇😎
Jesse, When removing a warp instead of using a 3 prong jig while the blade is cold make one with two pieces on angle iron, some pin stock and c-clamps then only bend the blade slightly and stick the whole thing in the temper oven. Pull out after 30 mins and correct the warps slightly more. Keep doing this until all warps are gone.
I've watched one minute and eight seconds of this video and instantly subscribed. The sheer amounts of positive comments and previews of the beautiful knives are staggering. Then I saw the workshop - clean, focused, efficient. Instant follower. I'm excited to watch the rest of this video.
Looks amazing! One criticism, the painting doesn’t look bad; however, it’s not on par with the rest of the work. In the future you may consider outsourcing that aspect to a professional. I bet you could find a tattoo artist nearby that also paints and would do it for $2-300.
@@sigmamale6128 They're not pro nihontou bladesmiths, they wouldn't have access to the sort of professionals needed to make good fittings. It's good enough, and they can always replace them with better stuff, that's the magic of swords.
I Agree. Perhaps some custom stenciling and spray paint the way those guys on UA-cam who only use spray paint and bowls or cuplids and fire for the added depth. There are many painting techniques, perhaps even spinning the blade with paint ontop then using a hair dryer to push the paint as a nod to the Wind. Just some ideas that I know for sure you're talented enough to learn and quickly master as you've demonstrated here. Nice video. I subbed when you cut the toilet paper roll.
Really impressive to see you craft such a thing. One feedback I'd like to give you for the video is, that for all the non.Katana specialists (like me) you could give a short explanation of the technical terms e.g. "Kashira, that small cap on the end of the handle [...] which does this and that..." .That makes it a bit easieer to understand what you are working on. Keep up the good work!
I really appreciate you showing the mistakes you made, and discussing how you dealt with them. Many smiths just skip over them, don't want to show them or when they do they don't go into detail. But as the viewer and a fellow bladesmith, seeing other peoples mistakes is just as helpful in the learning process as seeing their successes. Edit - The only thing I'd have loved to seen on this blade would be a rainfall pattern on the habaki, especially considering the theme of the sword, and it being made for a retired meteorologist lol. Awesome piece though man. Well done!
This is pure gold. Never change anything about your videos. This is the best thing to watch when failing to fall asleep or relaxing or just lying down. Also, the ending made me very happy!
For your push-ups, try to tighten your stomach so that there isn't a bend in your back. This makes your back more straight, which means that you can do more push-ups in one go, and this also reduces back pain.
These videos are just a true delight Jesse. Also i love how you make these comparisons to other everyday things so that we normies can relate to how things may feel, look or smell, like the belt polishing the Tsuba was like the upside of a sponge. Sometimes its like im just here thinking out loud "thats so cool!" really feels like im very included in every part of the process. Much appreciated
I'm a orthopedic polisher for a living, belting down onto the blade edge upwards made me really surprised it didn't catch and cause some serious damage. Maybe next time rotate and use your less dominant hand for support. It sucks, but you'll get used to it as long as you have a solid grip. 240 grain would work just as well taking off material, it's safer imo but you may use more belts. Cross your lines like an X with a 500 grain and finish off with a greased 500. You'll love the results. Just my opinion. Really awesome video bro, love your work.
You know, It's not just about the final product, but how it got there as well. I have seen and held some really nice Damascus blades made by some very talented artists and metal workers. I do not exaggerate when expressing that this blade is hands down one of the best I've seen so far. I haven't held it, or seen it in person. However, judging from what I can see on the final shots, the contrast and pattern in the blade is absolutely beautiful. The thought put into putting this blade together is so genuine and amount of care put into every piece really means a lot to everyone, not just anyone who a piece is made for. My absolute favorite feature is how well the Habaki matches the blade. The shade and color of both pieces are perfect for each other. They compliment everything about the other, all the way down to the edges. I personally feel that using a different metal for the Fuchi and Kashira would have been better suited. While sheet metal can be almost perfect for this, and still fits well within the design, the color of the metal does contrast quite a bit from the rest of the Katana. Not only this, sheet metal is quite easy to scratch and dent. Plus, a lot of the accent for the project is centered around that gold-ish color. In a future project, maybe you could try working with shakudo (a copper and gold alloy)! This might have been perfect due to the richness of the color. Some protection can be done to help with oxidization over time too. I truly appreciate it if you took the time to read this entire comment. Your work on this project must have been a huge learning experience, even in its already impressive form. We all look forward to seeing any future work from you.
I'm turning 24 this year and for sure I'm going to order with this guy my retirement trophy katana when I get old. Imagine how much experience this man will have lmao. PERFECT work is the word for this video.
Marvellous. Not only the finished precious but the whole way of fabricating and letting us take part. Your intense focus on any detail that could be worth noticing. Your learning from failures instead of getting angry. Your inbrokable will to not only succeed but to master the challenge. Your joy that almost allows to grip it, in any case feel it by ourselves. I am speechless and simply bow in respect and gratefulness.
Seeing you mention watching Ilya, I'm sure you've heard him explain this before, but the curve of the blade in a katana is the result of the differential hardening in the traditional forging. The clay applied that creates the hamon line on the spine keeping the spine from cooling as fast as the rest of the blade to give it more spring. The blade prior to that is forged straight and this method of quenching (done in a horizontal bath instead of a vertical) causes the curve. From your comments you've watch a lot of Ilya making katanas and he's incredible. They will often use two 2x4's with several clamps along the length to let the blade finish the final cooldown after quench to reduce warpage. Also if you have a good line you want to preserve, I think there's also a masking you can do with just tape...but I don't remember if that's all they would do. Matt Stagmer from the same things you've seen Ilya is an insane grinder.
When you showed blade one in two pieces like that my heart sunk to the floor, I may not be a blacksmith but I’ve had things I’ve put time effort and love into like that and to lose it like that is the most horrible feeling in the world.
@jhublades - I thought I'd sit down and enjoy a morning coffee while watching a craftsman do his thing. Truth is, I watched your entire video from end to end and forgot to even boil the sodding kettle, until you pulled out a jar of instant coffee. Great work and I'm sure your client was 'over the moon' with his uniquely themed Damascus katana. Definitely worth a sub! 👍
Things to improve: 1. Sand the sheath to a finer grit so it doesnt look so grainy. 2. Use a base coat of spray paint, or just a single coat of spray paint, rather than hand brushing the sheath. Will fix the textural issues and give it a much more consistent glossy sheen. 3. Sand the habaki and guard to a finer grit or at least make it homogeneous rather than single direction.
As a fellow male Jesse, we rooted for you all through FiF and have been really enjoying your videos. I have my kids watch these with me so I can watch something beautiful and inspiring for me to get off my butt to build my own stuff and they can learn and fall asleep with me. Thanks for the video
Love how precise you were throughout the build of this blade. I want to say two things for future builds. First, when you're filing, file in one direction and that's in the push motion only! Resist pulling back on the material your filing (unless using a rat tail file that is). In doing so, you won't be damaging or clogging your files. Almost everyone uses files in a back and forth motion most of the time, but your actually making the filing process take longer now. So resist keeping contact on the metal when bringing the file back towards you. Try this with a brand new file next time and you'll notice the difference. Keep a brush close by to clean the file up. Second thing I want to ask is would a burn through work on the wood? Idk if you can do this even but would a burn through on the handle and saya work? Might want to try doing a burn through and see how snug you can actually get that wood. Just a thought is all. But great work on the blade, could use a few more folds tbh but looks great.
6:40 out of all the things done in a blacksmith's forge, this is, to me, the most important. That there twisted hunk of metal is the start of technology. The humble screw.
The entertainment value of this one hour plus video by far - by far - exceeds the last couple of hundred movies at similar length, I've seen. The skill, the dedication, the patience... Incredible. Hats off.
For grinding, look around for grinding jigs that hold the piece or the grinder. Also practice on mild steel to get correct angles. Use short piece first then try longer pieces, but a well made jig helps with repeated consistent grinding, especially when grinding at angles. For wood work: If its a chunk of wood, use CA glue and activator and clamp it down (be careful it glues fast). For a scratch use sawdust and wood glue and spread over. Let cure and then sand flat. But the best thing to practice is posture of your body. Don't bend over and don't overstretch. When working on a workpiece you should place machines and workpieces so you don't overstrain the body. Best investment is a bench that you can raise or lower the top, so its comfortable to you to work on projects. Or you make a platform(s)to raise/lower your body when the work is higher/lower than normal. You will probably find these ideas in a woodworking channel than a metal channel.
Tip for the jewelry saw, grab a clamp to assist on holding what you are cutting. Way more control, less movement of the object you are cutting, and way less stress on your hands
this was truly an artistic masterpiece, the beauty and the aura that this blade generates is impeccable and mind boggling, i hope in future i can buy a similar craft, like this blade made by Jesse, this 1 long hour was so intense and informative, utterly incredible, i'm so glad i subscribed to this channel back some time.
It might sound crazy, but I’ve been making swords and knives since I was eight years old and I was given a piece of very valuable information by an old timer that has helped me many times, and I’ve never had a bent blade since after a quench. when you quench point the tip of the blade in true north, and quench it horizontally, and when the high carbon steel remagnetizes, it will not pull one way or another if you have Even material and Even heat distribution. You are so talented and are a better Smith than me but I hope that information helps. Thank you for making your videos. I truly enjoy watching them.
I just bingewatched ALL of the content I could find that includes you, forged in fire episodes as well. I loved all of it. Beautiful handcrafting with the exact amount and type of humor I like. Keep it up man, excited to see more!
Every time I see a blade or sword or specifically katana I always want them, it was an obsession. After watching your video now I want to build one, because you are just like me obsessed with sword. You are learning while building the katana. It is a promise to myself, even it takes me 10 years I will forge my own katana.
18:46 when I saw you cooking that glove I KNEW you were going to put it in and say “that’s hot” 😂 I have done that so many times as a welder/fabrication guy 😂 loved the process and voiceover.
Sir Jesse Hu, I've watched a few (some of the best) do what you did here, and I also REALLY ENJOYED your explanation as to why, how and what you were doing. I'm a teacher and thoroughly enjoyed this time watching you at your craft. I was excited along with you. This is truly a WORK OF ART, and you ARE A CRAFTSMAN AND ARTISIAN! If I had the means, I would be calling you to make me one of those; maybe a set.
Hey Jesse I saw you on Forged In Fire Competition where you won straight 3-4 challenges... Hat's off to you man.. Even you were tired you gave such a tough competition to everyone!!!!!
Amazing work! Didnt even mean to open this video, it started playing while my phone was in my pocket. Ended up watching the entire thing without skipping after it immediately got my attention lol!
In the future, when making the saya, if you leave the excess on, and setup a few dowel pegs on each end, it will help center for gluing and can be cut out during shaping. It will enforce alignment.
The best thing to use when working with stainless is water, plain old water to keep it cool. No machine oil - just water. Cheers bro and thank you for sharing your journey.
I've watched all the video with passion and love. I want to say a few things with respect to your blacksmithing skills. I saw some mistakes. After the sword reaches its final form, local heating and forging processes cause the sword to become weak. I had predicted that the sword would break (It was satisfying to see it break in the video ty for putting it in the video). My English is not good enough, I don't fully understand what you said (maybe you said it yourself in the video); When the sword is left in the horizontal oil pool during the hardening phase, it takes on its own slope. The katana curve comes from there, no special forging effort is needed actually. It would be better if the oil did not catch fire, but a small flare is also normal. However, it is not normal for it to turn into a flamethrower like yours. Maybe high temp or maybe bad oil. This is critical on hardening. Great work, great effort brother.Thanks for creating the best videos on UA-cam. It is also very nice to see that you keep all the tools and equipment spotlessly clean and still.
Hey, I stumbled upon your channel by chance, but already spent couple of hours watching you work since yesterday. Just wanted to mention that a good way to ventilate your workplace might be a good idea (I apologize if you already have something in place). I think your work and storytelling is amazing and wouldn't want to see this cost you troubles with your well-being. Keep up the good work!
You are so incredibly talented, man. This is an amazing piece. I’m 39 and looking at taking on forging as a hobby. All I’m saying is, if you made a separate tutorial channel that went into detail about the processes you take and why, I would subscribe. 😂🤙🏻
A blade any thousand year old katana maker would be jealous of ! People always complain about prices but a crew of men can’t build a home in 4 weeks but you made a perfect katana! With every bell and whistles .
I am a woodworker by trade I do a lot of carved furniture but I picked up a few good ideas from watching you work the steel. Fascinating watching your process! I hope I'm not out of line with one safety observation that you were quenching in oil and the vapors which are obviously flammable we're right next to your open door furnace which could cause a flashover
Use code JESSEHU50 to get 50% OFF your first Factor box plus 20% off your next month of orders at bit.ly/454CZCe
Also thanks for watching :) lmk what you want me to build next.
Do a Santoku
@@jhublades Damascus cumai katana or knife with a black core and make the copper crimson red. (then give it to me :] )
@@jhublades I don't know if this is your thing, but can you make a pair of daggers or short swords?
@@jhubladesI would love to see new kind of blade
AN HOUR LONG??? Bro actually blessed us today
Hope you enjoy :)
After 4 months 😢
Yes man, lets take it to the cinema! 😂🤘
Also take your time dude, as long as you make enough to live off, we will wait 👌
i put the rest of my life on pause to sit alone for an hour and 16 minutes to watch this masterpiece, where i actually learned a lot
dude you don't understand how long I have been waiting for another one of your videos. You're undoubtedly the best at this, even watched your episodes of Forged in Fire. Please keep making these, you're highly talented.
Do you know which season/epiodes that was please?
Same
@@marktvcturner2448 ua-cam.com/video/j6pD8hDHCqE/v-deo.html
I'd like to know as well!
@@juansanchez-tr1dq he has a link in his video section to the play list of appearances on forged in fire.
I don't know how old you are but the fact that you understand what it takes to make such a beautiful blade and to actually make it is unreal. I'm very impressed!
Indeed this did cross my mind, not also the fact that he has the circumstances to fulfill this art: it would be a different story being born with poor parents in a council flat in Scunthorpe, I'd wonder how well this would have even been able to happen at all. Don't believe everything you see.
@@infinitesimotel This was definitely brought forth by his own determination and curiosity. He said he was self taught and bought a lot of his equipment because of money he made from a show he was on called Forged by Fire. He also mentioned that his first knife was made from very basic/homemade equipment/materials. Being poor does provide a different set of challenges but it does not mean one can't accomplish something like this. It's very limited thinking to think that one can only be truly successful had they been rich. It's more so about the character of the person and their determination, not so much what's in their pockets. Yes, having money makes certain things easier but taking the easier path does not mean you're better. For example, I'm a welder and in tech school we had ok welders. They welded but they weren't anything fancy. But I know how to be more accurate of a welder and read the puddle better because of the equipment I was using. It's easier to do things when you have all the bells and whistles but can be harder or impossible when you don't have the fancy stuff rendering you incapable. Some of the greatest minds and most wealthy people came from poverty. Just look at a ton of historical figures.
Lol what a dumb comment
@@snowstar2561 Yea well background matters a lot, and also having money behind you.
@@infinitesimotel Yeah I don't understand this attitude where people defend to death the notion that no one has advantage and privilege and everything is determined by merit and effort that you put in, when it's so clear that half the world runs on nepotism. At the very least coming from wealth gives you a huge advantage to generate your own wealth and success and to pursue your passions, something you will struggle to do if you're from a less fortunate background.
Words cannot explain the multitude of emotions I went through for the finished product. Thank you.
Thanks for watching :)
What I like about your video is that you show the whole process. Even the setbacks and difficulties you had. This gives you a much deeper insight into the process and a much better feeling for the work you put into this katana. That's what I hate about most of the others, it seems too easy! Keep it up, you're going to be great!
This never happened to me. I literally watched the whole thing without a pause, like I was frozen in time. The amount of skill, dedication and precision is insane, my mouth got super dry because I had it open the whole time 🤣Really insane job man. Much respect!
I feel the same hahaha ur not alone😂😂
Do a differential temper with a torch after you temper in your kiln. You'll never break another blade in your jig again, it will bend 90 degrees back with only a 10 degree offset, and you can temper at lower temperatures for a harder edge which mimics a clay quench but with more spring.
Would look something like this:
- Temper 325 degrees
- Torch back of spine while keeping edge in water
- Heat 1/4 of spine to red hot, should result in the blade width in 3 colors, from black near the spine to blueish in middle and no color on the edge.
This will produce the ultimate katana. Stay sharp!
Was thinking something similar. He also needs to pay more attention to his grinding. Heating up an area too much or grinding less in certain areas and not having a straight piece to start with can lead to warping as well.
Also, if you put it on cold steel it will draw the warp out to the other side. Effectively straightening it.
I was gonna say something similar, he's getting the heat treat to hot for sure.
Just a quick pointer. Never sand across the grain. It breaks the consistency of the wood (sanding with the grain smooths the fibres, sanding across the grain cuts the fibres). The process takes longer because you then have to sand with the grain to remove the cross grain scratches and fibre damage. This means you sanded twice for nothing. That said awesome result on the Katana 👌
A beautiful blade! You should be honored, and I appreciate that you're continuing the craft. I have a 3 piece set (Katana, Wakizashi, and Tanto) and while nice - is cheaply made. It's just a decoration, and none of the blades could cut warm butter. So in the end, I just enjoy it for what it is - a memory of my trip to Kentucky.
Now take it to an actual Japanese Katana Blacksmith and get it reviewed
I would want to see that
I think it’s great that you even recorded a failure and worked because nobody else would have done that, they would have just skipped over that. So mad props!
There are a bunch of blade makers that have shown failures...
@@Adaephonable He's corny and this is his first time on the internet
This looks awesome!! I'd recommend a black stain instead of a paint for the wood, it brings out the grain and looks super sleek
I think a nice clear coat over the tsuba to seal it all in and give it a gloss effect would look top notch as well
@@davienstrong I agree with both of these points. Unless your art work is top top tier, keep it simple and let the wood do what it does.
@@davienstrongthis is what i thought as well.
@@davienstrong totally! Natural wood always looks good
the paint job could use some improvement, but heck this kid can cook!
Honestly, I have always been intimidated by making a hidden tang, but after watching several of your videos, it inspires me to do a change up from handle scales to a hidden tang! Hands down, best videos!
Totally SICK sword! An awsome watch to see you work!
I'm glad youre kitty helped you out too!
Great work, really came out beautiful! You can use a couple of straight boards like a 2x4 to straighten your sword after quench. Burn the blade shape into the wood during your normalization phase. Then after quench immediately clamp the blade in the wood and let it cool to room temp. Much less warping this way. When using your 3 prong straightening jig you can use a map gas or propane torch to heat the back of the blade and relieve stress as you gradually put tension on your jig. Almost like blue backing but I try not to let it get past straw color. You can use the jaws of the vice to protect the blade edge from the torch. I’ve used leather or wet rags clay etc to protect the Temper on the edge if needed.
the putting down of youre prized project with the classic approval head nod- this is life- this is what we live for
It's called a humble brag where I am from. We think it's stupid.
this is definitely a hobby I can see myself failing abysmally in my 40s, love watching the process
i dont think you know what abysmal means. lol
@@devisiveone seems like they used it right. like to fail really badly, which could be interpreted either as a double negative (therefore not failing), or abysmal used as some form of measure /advert on the level of failure. how did you interpret it?
@@devisiveone to fail in a very bad way.
yeah... 99% of people can't make these katanas even with all the tools. You have to have dedication and knowledge and skill. Most people fail at dedication even with knowledge or skill to do it. So you are not wrong. This is so amazing to watch !! I just watched a previous video of the traditional way of making swords in Japan and then watch this guy do it America like its easy. No sir -- you just have a talent for this along with being a genius.
There was so much to learn from this video. And I love that there was no explanation for the break other than breaks happen sometimes. This video was fantastic all around.
i have a crazy short attention span yet i can sit an hour and 15 mins to watch this your videos are always so interesting well donee
Well done brother!
Thanks!!! Excited to see that blade of yours at bladeshow👍
@@jhublades at this point im just excited to be done with it. :D
bro you must take of the katana the best of your ability the amount of work that was put in 💀
48:26 You might want to consider your placement of your band saw controls here, you're reaching across the table, past the cutting edge of the blade to reach them with probably the softest part of your arm. You do you ultimately, but do protect yourself from the "ah it'll never happen" happening.
Great video though, glad you left in the first attempt, and great to see you learn from it. Very cool to see what can be done in such a small space.
Jesse Hu vs Ben Abbott - both undefeated on Forged in Fire. With Jesse's skills & experience having improved so much over the last year, I think you could the prize.
Jesse beats ben ,
I could honestly watch these katana forging videos all day everyday, really enjoyed this one and the enma one
Stay tuned! I have a big one coming out middle of next year :)
Your work is so beautiful. I love Damascus. I had the opportunity to watch you on forged in fire and was very impressed by your work. Thank you for showing your talent. From a grateful eastern Canadian.
I truly appreciate how much care you gave towards having a proper yokote.
And I'm glad to know I'm not the only one obsessed with Ilya's katana builds.
The moment of saying that 'I love my JOB' is precious! it is so satisfying seeing a person one of a few who loves what they are doing! Keep shining my brother! 😇😎
Jesse, When removing a warp instead of using a 3 prong jig while the blade is cold make one with two pieces on angle iron, some pin stock and c-clamps then only bend the blade slightly and stick the whole thing in the temper oven. Pull out after 30 mins and correct the warps slightly more. Keep doing this until all warps are gone.
Was going to suggest this as well. Tyrell Knife Works, which he mentions as a reference, does this so I'm surprised he didn't do it for this piece.
I've watched one minute and eight seconds of this video and instantly subscribed. The sheer amounts of positive comments and previews of the beautiful knives are staggering. Then I saw the workshop - clean, focused, efficient. Instant follower.
I'm excited to watch the rest of this video.
Phenomenal work! Such talent at a young age, can’t even imagine the level of skill you will have after decades of experience. A master in the making.
Looks amazing! One criticism, the painting doesn’t look bad; however, it’s not on par with the rest of the work. In the future you may consider outsourcing that aspect to a professional. I bet you could find a tattoo artist nearby that also paints and would do it for $2-300.
the only part of the build that looks good is the blade honestly the rest looks like garbage.
@@sigmamale6128 They're not pro nihontou bladesmiths, they wouldn't have access to the sort of professionals needed to make good fittings. It's good enough, and they can always replace them with better stuff, that's the magic of swords.
I think you should of etched the compass instead of dremeling it. It would of looked cleaner like you signature.
I Agree. Perhaps some custom stenciling and spray paint the way those guys on UA-cam who only use spray paint and bowls or cuplids and fire for the added depth. There are many painting techniques, perhaps even spinning the blade with paint ontop then using a hair dryer to push the paint as a nod to the Wind. Just some ideas that I know for sure you're talented enough to learn and quickly master as you've demonstrated here. Nice video. I subbed when you cut the toilet paper roll.
The world doesn't need more internet criticism
Suggestion: for a smoother finish on the saya paint, prime it, wet sand it to 600 grit, repeat but go to 2000 grit. Same thing with the topcoat.
WOW just the thumbnail alone is INSANE. I can't wait for this video to drop today!
How the actual hell
Really impressive to see you craft such a thing. One feedback I'd like to give you for the video is, that for all the non.Katana specialists (like me) you could give a short explanation of the technical terms e.g. "Kashira, that small cap on the end of the handle [...] which does this and that..." .That makes it a bit easieer to understand what you are working on. Keep up the good work!
Bro's edging me
Ayo
Lmao 👀🤣
Errr bruh
Your work environment cleanliness is a testament to your work, well done, my man. Also, the katana is a bute.
I really appreciate you showing the mistakes you made, and discussing how you dealt with them. Many smiths just skip over them, don't want to show them or when they do they don't go into detail. But as the viewer and a fellow bladesmith, seeing other peoples mistakes is just as helpful in the learning process as seeing their successes.
Edit - The only thing I'd have loved to seen on this blade would be a rainfall pattern on the habaki, especially considering the theme of the sword, and it being made for a retired meteorologist lol. Awesome piece though man. Well done!
Hah...Bro, you are too soft! Lend him to reality....he has invetory of master, but no skills. It's not buy in a shop kraftmann skills😂
@@raptor_il89lv learn to speak English before attempting it.
28:00 I've never made a sword but I have re-finished some knife blades by hand and the "what did I watch while sanding" comment is so nostalgic.
This is pure gold. Never change anything about your videos. This is the best thing to watch when failing to fall asleep or relaxing or just lying down. Also, the ending made me very happy!
For your push-ups, try to tighten your stomach so that there isn't a bend in your back. This makes your back more straight, which means that you can do more push-ups in one go, and this also reduces back pain.
Also, tighten your butt as well. This does make it harder to do push-ups, but it makes your push-ups look better, and this also reduces back pain.
proper form is also good for your core.
We need more builds 🙌 you and Kyle Royer are my 2 favorite Blade smiths hopefully the next build isn't that far away. I'm loving this build
26:02 What a beautiful cameo, thanks for this!
u mean cameow?
It would be awesome if a real Katana master could evaluate your creation.
It's a lot of work and sacrifice. That is why those people making this thing would be honored in Japan. You are one of a kind bro.
んなわけねえだろｗ
アメージングするのは勝手だけど、日本でも称えられるとかアホなこと言わんといてｗ
These videos are just a true delight Jesse. Also i love how you make these comparisons to other everyday things so that we normies can relate to how things may feel, look or smell, like the belt polishing the Tsuba was like the upside of a sponge. Sometimes its like im just here thinking out loud "thats so cool!" really feels like im very included in every part of the process. Much appreciated
reading through the chapters in the description, I'm psyched
your face and reaction at 1:15:35 sums up all of your viewers' satisfaction after watching this entire process
True that!
I'm a orthopedic polisher for a living, belting down onto the blade edge upwards made me really surprised it didn't catch and cause some serious damage. Maybe next time rotate and use your less dominant hand for support. It sucks, but you'll get used to it as long as you have a solid grip. 240 grain would work just as well taking off material, it's safer imo but you may use more belts. Cross your lines like an X with a 500 grain and finish off with a greased 500. You'll love the results. Just my opinion. Really awesome video bro, love your work.
You know, It's not just about the final product, but how it got there as well. I have seen and held some really nice Damascus blades made by some very talented artists and metal workers. I do not exaggerate when expressing that this blade is hands down one of the best I've seen so far. I haven't held it, or seen it in person. However, judging from what I can see on the final shots, the contrast and pattern in the blade is absolutely beautiful. The thought put into putting this blade together is so genuine and amount of care put into every piece really means a lot to everyone, not just anyone who a piece is made for. My absolute favorite feature is how well the Habaki matches the blade. The shade and color of both pieces are perfect for each other. They compliment everything about the other, all the way down to the edges.
I personally feel that using a different metal for the Fuchi and Kashira would have been better suited. While sheet metal can be almost perfect for this, and still fits well within the design, the color of the metal does contrast quite a bit from the rest of the Katana. Not only this, sheet metal is quite easy to scratch and dent. Plus, a lot of the accent for the project is centered around that gold-ish color. In a future project, maybe you could try working with shakudo (a copper and gold alloy)! This might have been perfect due to the richness of the color. Some protection can be done to help with oxidization over time too.
I truly appreciate it if you took the time to read this entire comment. Your work on this project must have been a huge learning experience, even in its already impressive form. We all look forward to seeing any future work from you.
I'm turning 24 this year and for sure I'm going to order with this guy my retirement trophy katana when I get old. Imagine how much experience this man will have lmao. PERFECT work is the word for this video.
Jesse, I have no words to say besides... That sword is absolutely stunning!!!
Marvellous.
Not only the finished precious but the whole way of fabricating and letting us take part.
Your intense focus on any detail that could be worth noticing. Your learning from failures instead of getting angry.
Your inbrokable will to not only succeed but to master the challenge.
Your joy that almost allows to grip it, in any case feel it by ourselves.
I am speechless and simply bow in respect and gratefulness.
Seeing you mention watching Ilya, I'm sure you've heard him explain this before, but the curve of the blade in a katana is the result of the differential hardening in the traditional forging. The clay applied that creates the hamon line on the spine keeping the spine from cooling as fast as the rest of the blade to give it more spring. The blade prior to that is forged straight and this method of quenching (done in a horizontal bath instead of a vertical) causes the curve.
From your comments you've watch a lot of Ilya making katanas and he's incredible. They will often use two 2x4's with several clamps along the length to let the blade finish the final cooldown after quench to reduce warpage. Also if you have a good line you want to preserve, I think there's also a masking you can do with just tape...but I don't remember if that's all they would do. Matt Stagmer from the same things you've seen Ilya is an insane grinder.
When you showed blade one in two pieces like that my heart sunk to the floor, I may not be a blacksmith but I’ve had things I’ve put time effort and love into like that and to lose it like that is the most horrible feeling in the world.
Right?!? Me too. I felt his pain 😞
When people say what is talent and hardworking, I show them this vid
I appreciate it :)
@jhublades - I thought I'd sit down and enjoy a morning coffee while watching a craftsman do his thing. Truth is, I watched your entire video from end to end and forgot to even boil the sodding kettle, until you pulled out a jar of instant coffee. Great work and I'm sure your client was 'over the moon' with his uniquely themed Damascus katana. Definitely worth a sub! 👍
Things to improve:
1. Sand the sheath to a finer grit so it doesnt look so grainy.
2. Use a base coat of spray paint, or just a single coat of spray paint, rather than hand brushing the sheath. Will fix the textural issues and give it a much more consistent glossy sheen.
3. Sand the habaki and guard to a finer grit or at least make it homogeneous rather than single direction.
As a fellow male Jesse, we rooted for you all through FiF and have been really enjoying your videos. I have my kids watch these with me so I can watch something beautiful and inspiring for me to get off my butt to build my own stuff and they can learn and fall asleep with me. Thanks for the video
Love how precise you were throughout the build of this blade. I want to say two things for future builds. First, when you're filing, file in one direction and that's in the push motion only! Resist pulling back on the material your filing (unless using a rat tail file that is). In doing so, you won't be damaging or clogging your files. Almost everyone uses files in a back and forth motion most of the time, but your actually making the filing process take longer now. So resist keeping contact on the metal when bringing the file back towards you. Try this with a brand new file next time and you'll notice the difference. Keep a brush close by to clean the file up. Second thing I want to ask is would a burn through work on the wood? Idk if you can do this even but would a burn through on the handle and saya work? Might want to try doing a burn through and see how snug you can actually get that wood. Just a thought is all. But great work on the blade, could use a few more folds tbh but looks great.
I'll be catching it later on in the day, but I can't wait!
Man open youtube, man see sword, man happy
Man IS primitive, Can not speak Ouga, bouga.
Stop that non sens
I wish I had the cash to commission work like this. Outstanding work, have a subscriber.
EDIT: the chisel ASMR 👌
Beautiful, elegant, and exquisite craftsmanship! I love how this video showed every step of the process. It was fascinating. Great work.
6:40 out of all the things done in a blacksmith's forge, this is, to me, the most important. That there twisted hunk of metal is the start of technology. The humble screw.
Use the broken pieces to make two tanto to match. There’s only happy accidents remember? 😊 “words of Bob Ross”
The entertainment value of this one hour plus video by far - by far - exceeds the last couple of hundred movies at similar length, I've seen. The skill, the dedication, the patience... Incredible. Hats off.
"Looks like you guys owe me a sub"
Fair enough, subbed
For grinding, look around for grinding jigs that hold the piece or the grinder. Also practice on mild steel to get correct angles. Use short piece first then try longer pieces, but a well made jig helps with repeated consistent grinding, especially when grinding at angles.
For wood work: If its a chunk of wood, use CA glue and activator and clamp it down (be careful it glues fast). For a scratch use sawdust and wood glue and spread over. Let cure and then sand flat.
But the best thing to practice is posture of your body. Don't bend over and don't overstretch. When working on a workpiece you should place machines and workpieces so you don't overstrain the body.
Best investment is a bench that you can raise or lower the top, so its comfortable to you to work on projects. Or you make a platform(s)to raise/lower your body when the work is higher/lower than normal. You will probably find these ideas in a woodworking channel than a metal channel.
Tip for the jewelry saw, grab a clamp to assist on holding what you are cutting. Way more control, less movement of the object you are cutting, and way less stress on your hands
You could make a wakizashi from the broken blade, to complete a daisho for the customer.
Yes 👍
Indeed!
This
That part 💯
or a couple of tanto one for him one for the customer.
Ты проделал огромную работу, молодец. Лучшая катана, которую я видел, продолжай удивлять
これ刀の形してるだけで刀じゃないよ
じゃあ、何が刀なわけ? 確かに一般的な日本刀の製法じゃないけど、「片刃の湾曲した剣」という刀の語義には合致していると思うが?
俺が言ってるのは芸術品としてのほうね。
そりゃ刀として認識してもなんも思わんが、文化庁が定めてる刀の基準が折り返し鍛錬して焼き入れした物だけ。
芸術品としての刀ではないよ。
ただの片刃の刃物
@@手羽先-t6t 『日本刀とは、武用または鑑賞用として、伝統的な製作方法によって鍛錬し、焼き入れを施したものです。 日本刀制作の工程を経て製作されたやり・なぎなた・ほこ等も含まれます。 原則として刃渡り15センチメートル以上のものが対象です。』
↑そういう定義見たことあるなぁ…でもそれ「日本刀」のことだよな…と思ってググったらやっぱ日本刀でしたまる。はい、本動画の刀は日本刀ではありません、でも刀です。お疲れっした〜
いやホント、模造刀でもサーベルでも青龍刀でもシャムシールでも刀は刀なんだよね。
@@手羽先-t6t 『日本刀とは、武用または鑑賞用として、伝統的な製作方法によって鍛錬し、焼き入れを施したものです。 日本刀制作の工程を経て製作されたやり・なぎなた・ほこ等も含まれます。 原則として刃渡り15センチメートル以上のものが対象です。』
↑そういう定義見たことあるなぁ…でもそれ「日本刀」のことだよな…と思ってググったらやっぱ日本刀のことでしたまる。はい、本動画の刀は日本刀ではありません、でも刀です。お疲れっした〜
いやホント、模造刀でもサーベルでも青龍刀でもシャムシールでも刀は刀なんだよね。
@@手羽先-t6t 『日本刀とは、武用または鑑賞用として、伝統的な製作方法によって鍛錬し、焼き入れを施したものです。 日本刀制作の工程を経て製作されたやり・なぎなた・ほこ等も含まれます。 原則として刃渡り15センチメートル以上のものが対象です。』
↑そういう定義見たことあるなぁ…でもそれ「日本刀」のことだよな…と思ってググったらやっぱ日本刀のことでしたまる。はい、本動画の刀は日本刀ではありません、でも刀です。お疲れっした〜
いやホント、模造刀でもサーベルでも青龍刀でもシャムシールでも刀は刀なんだよね。
申し訳無いですが、それは刀じゃ有りません。
刀は折り返し鍛造した物が刀と定義しています。
それは、刀の形をした剣ですね、刀とは全く違う物です。
刀（かたな）は、武器（刀剣）の一種であり、剣の内でもとくに片側にしか刃のない物を指す。
↑語義をよく見ろ。よく「それカタナ違う」的なコメントを見かけるが、日本刀って言ってるわけじゃないし別にいいだろうよ･･･
それに、折り返し鍛造は現代に伝わってる製法なだけで、日本で作られた刀が全部その製法じゃないことに注意な?
@oz2157
浅はかな人ですね〜(笑)
@@高橋広憲 自己紹介で返されるとは思わなんだw
this was truly an artistic masterpiece, the beauty and the aura that this blade generates is impeccable and mind boggling, i hope in future i can buy a similar craft, like this blade made by Jesse, this 1 long hour was so intense and informative, utterly incredible, i'm so glad i subscribed to this channel back some time.
It might sound crazy, but I’ve been making swords and knives since I was eight years old and I was given a piece of very valuable information by an old timer that has helped me many times, and I’ve never had a bent blade since after a quench. when you quench point the tip of the blade in true north, and quench it horizontally, and when the high carbon steel remagnetizes, it will not pull one way or another if you have Even material and Even heat distribution. You are so talented and are a better Smith than me but I hope that information helps. Thank you for making your videos. I truly enjoy watching them.
これは刀ではありません。
刀の製造方法とは全く違う。
「日本刀」という括りならそうだろうけど、単に「カタナ」だったらサーベルも青龍刀もシャムシールもタルワールも刀だよ。
刀に対する理解が全く無い。酷い偽物だ。
いや、理解も何も「片刃の湾曲した剣」だからこれが刀なんだろ? 伝統的な日本刀のことを言ってるなら筋違い。
The shape of the blade looks really legit!
Love the "patterning" on the steel.
Overall great success
Not a single word at the end. Just a nod of accomplishment and a walk-off.
I just bingewatched ALL of the content I could find that includes you, forged in fire episodes as well.
I loved all of it. Beautiful handcrafting with the exact amount and type of humor I like. Keep it up man, excited to see more!
Every time I see a blade or sword or specifically katana I always want them, it was an obsession.
After watching your video now I want to build one, because you are just like me obsessed with sword.
You are learning while building the katana.
It is a promise to myself, even it takes me 10 years I will forge my own katana.
18:46 when I saw you cooking that glove I KNEW you were going to put it in and say “that’s hot” 😂 I have done that so many times as a welder/fabrication guy 😂 loved the process and voiceover.
Sir Jesse Hu,
I've watched a few (some of the best) do what you did here, and I also REALLY ENJOYED your explanation as to why, how and what you were doing. I'm a teacher and thoroughly enjoyed this time watching you at your craft. I was excited along with you. This is truly a WORK OF ART, and you ARE A CRAFTSMAN AND ARTISIAN! If I had the means, I would be calling you to make me one of those; maybe a set.
Hey Jesse I saw you on Forged In Fire Competition where you won straight 3-4 challenges... Hat's off to you man.. Even you were tired you gave such a tough competition to everyone!!!!!
Amazing work! Didnt even mean to open this video, it started playing while my phone was in my pocket. Ended up watching the entire thing without skipping after it immediately got my attention lol!
In the future, when making the saya, if you leave the excess on, and setup a few dowel pegs on each end, it will help center for gluing and can be cut out during shaping. It will enforce alignment.
Nice job from an amateur knife maker in montana. I totally understand those moments of testing that feel so perfect. Again good job man.
I'm honeslty lost for words. The enitre combination of all the skills you used is mind bending. Absolutely incredible work
The best thing to use when working with stainless is water, plain old water to keep it cool. No machine oil - just water. Cheers bro and thank you for sharing your journey.
This video was so well done that I felt left wanting to watch more of your content Jesse. You're so talented!
This deserves 70,000 likes. Come on team, we're almost there.
I've watched all the video with passion and love.
I want to say a few things with respect to your blacksmithing skills. I saw some mistakes. After the sword reaches its final form, local heating and forging processes cause the sword to become weak. I had predicted that the sword would break (It was satisfying to see it break in the video ty for putting it in the video).
My English is not good enough, I don't fully understand what you said (maybe you said it yourself in the video); When the sword is left in the horizontal oil pool during the hardening phase, it takes on its own slope. The katana curve comes from there, no special forging effort is needed actually.
It would be better if the oil did not catch fire, but a small flare is also normal. However, it is not normal for it to turn into a flamethrower like yours. Maybe high temp or maybe bad oil. This is critical on hardening.
Great work, great effort brother.Thanks for creating the best videos on UA-cam. It is also very nice to see that you keep all the tools and equipment spotlessly clean and still.
Hey, I stumbled upon your channel by chance, but already spent couple of hours watching you work since yesterday. Just wanted to mention that a good way to ventilate your workplace might be a good idea (I apologize if you already have something in place). I think your work and storytelling is amazing and wouldn't want to see this cost you troubles with your well-being. Keep up the good work!
I love long form videos. Great job working thru the issue and by that learning/increasing new skills.
This is by far, the best creation-type video I've ever seen. (I've been using youtube for quite a while)
You are so incredibly talented, man. This is an amazing piece. I’m 39 and looking at taking on forging as a hobby. All I’m saying is, if you made a separate tutorial channel that went into detail about the processes you take and why, I would subscribe. 😂🤙🏻
A blade any thousand year old katana maker would be jealous of ! People always complain about prices but a crew of men can’t build a home in 4 weeks but you made a perfect katana! With every bell and whistles .
Your skills are top class, glad the 50 grand from forge in fire has given you a proper boost. Greetings from South Africa.
I am a woodworker by trade I do a lot of carved furniture but I picked up a few good ideas from watching you work the steel. Fascinating watching your process! I hope I'm not out of line with one safety observation that you were quenching in oil and the vapors which are obviously flammable we're right next to your open door furnace which could cause a flashover
First time seeing your work. It looks B-E-A-utiful!!! And your dedication to even the small stuff is intriguing as well! Thanks for the show!