Blade twisted while forging

[Belstain]

I forged a big ol' bowie yesterday and it came out with a slight twist to it. about 1/8" over an 18" blade. What is the easiest way to straighten it out? What causes that? I have never had this problem before. Of course I've never forged an 18 inch knife before either. This was the first time I ever tried to forge a knife from barstock. The only other times I have forged a blade to shape was if I made the damascus.

 

[Bearclaw]

Belstain, On larger blades try forging one side then the other with each heating cycle. Then alternate hammering lightly down each side (flat on anvil) to keep blade straight as you forge. On big ones it's much easier this way and you don't wind up with a slight twist after you've finished forging.

 

[NickWheeler]

I used to just hammer on it till I was sure it was straight...but in Bill Moran's video he just puts the blade in a vise and uses an adjustable wrench to straighten a slight twist.

I have done it that way ever since I watched that, and it works great!

Of course a guy tries to keep it as straight as possible during forging...but sometimes I think blades have a mind of their own.

Nick

 

[Belstain]

Do you do that with the blade hot or cold?

 

[Belstain]

Well I couldn't find my big crescent wrench so back in the fire it went. A few taps with a light hammer and some twisting in the vise at red heat and she's all better.