Odin's Raven Engraving on Hand Forged Viking Seax

[RickFenlon]

I hand forged this Viking seax from 5160 spring steel. Immediately after forging I normalize the blade. I engraved the raven after normalizing the blade because it makes the steel soft enough to engrave. The blade is then edge hardened and tempered 3 times. After which I gun blued the raven engraving. The handle scales are marble wood. I used the stock removal method to make the brass guard and pommel.

I've been drawing my entire life and I really enjoy it. I've been looking for a way to incorporate my drawings into my love of making knives. Engraving seemed the perfect solution. As I do more engraving, I feel I'm getting better at it. Practice makes perfect, as the old saying go's. I intend to do much more practicing!