So I'm just looking to take a try with making a blade of my own. (I have limited experience with pre-made blanks) I have access to Farriers rasps and really like the looks of the ones I've seen on here. My question is can I soften the metal in order to work it to shape without a forge? I don't have a forge.

Also what type of metal is the Rasps made of?

Thanks in advance. I really enjoy looking at the pieces of art here.

Build a fire large enough to cover the rasp in coals. Leave overnight, come back in the morning and you are the proud new owner of an annealed rasp.

But, without having a forge you wont be able to retemper the knife, leaving it soft. It will still function as a knife, but it wont be as durable, or as sharp as youd probably like it to be. I suggest carefully working it without annealing. Dunk it in a bucket of water when it starts to get uncomfortable to hold.

Good luck. Dont forget some pictures when you get started.

Kid

I've read about alot of people tempering the knives in an oven. Will this not work with a rasp?

So I don't get confused, by "annealing" a rasp, it becomes soft and easier to work with right? That doesnt make it brittle and prone to breaking into lots of pieces?

Yes annealing is the softening of the steel. It wont be brittle at all.

Heat treating requires a forge to be more specific, you CAN temper in the oven. Youll need to get your blade to a nice red hot and quench in veggie oil. Then immidiately go to the oven at 400 degrees for an hour.

Atleast thats what I do with my rasp knives.

Kid

Thanks for the info!