Ironclad Seax Blade Set 9" Handmade Damascus Steel Blade Blanks for Knife Making

Blade blanks give knife makers the forged foundation without dictating the final handle design, letting each maker finish the piece according to their own vision. The Ironclad Seax Blade Set continues that same maker-focused tradition as every Handcrafted Seax Set we forge. The broken-back seax profile reflects genuine Viking-era blade geometry, giving custom builders an authentic historical shape to work from.

Pattern-welded Damascus steel adds real forging tradition to these blanks. Skilled smiths fold layers of high-carbon steel together to build strength and pattern, giving each blade a wave-like look that connects modern craftsmanship to centuries-old technique.

Introduction

If you're building custom seax knives and want an authentic starting point, the Ironclad Seax Blade Set delivers two matching Damascus blade blanks ready for handle work. At 9 inches overall, with an 8-inch blade, each piece follows the traditional broken-back seax profile. As a Forged Steel Blade Set, these blanks come unsharpened and without handle, guard, or pommel, giving you full control over the final build.

This Custom Seax Collection works well for knife makers, bushcraft enthusiasts building their own gear, and collectors who want to complete a historically accurate seax from the ground up.

Ironclad Seax Blade Set Blade

This Traditional Seax Blades set features two 8-inch pattern-welded Damascus blanks, each with a flat grind and acid-etched Damascus pattern. As an Artisan Forged Set, the hidden tang design (1 inch) is built for a stick-tang handle construction, common in traditional seax builds. Each blade measures approximately 1.5 inches wide and 4 to 5mm thick, weighing 250 to 350 grams per piece.

Uses and Safety

The Ironclad Seax Blade Set is intended for custom knife making, bushcraft projects, hunting knife builds, and collection pieces. Since these blades arrive unsharpened, handle with care during handle fitting and sharpening. Store the blanks in a dry place to prevent rust from forming on the Damascus pattern before your build is complete.

Specifications

• Set Includes: 2 blade blanks

• Blade Type: Viking seax blade blank

• Overall Length: 9 inches

• Blade Length: 8 inches

• Tang Length: 1 inch

• Blade Material: Pattern-welded Damascus steel

• Blade Thickness: 4 to 5mm

• Blade Width: 1.5 inches

• Blade Style: Broken back seax

• Blade Grind: Flat grind

• Edge Type: Plain edge, unsharpened

• Blade Finish: Acid-etched Damascus pattern

• Tang Type: Hidden tang

• Weight: 250 to 350 grams per blade

• Handle/Guard/Pommel: Not included

FAQs

Q: Is this a finished knife or a blade only? 

This is a blade blank set, no handle, guard, or pommel is included, giving knife makers full control over the final build.

Q: What does hidden tang mean for handle building? 

It's designed for a stick-tang style handle, where the narrow tang inserts into a drilled handle material rather than being sandwiched between scales.

Q: Are these blades sharp out of the box? 

No, they arrive with a plain, unsharpened edge, since the final grind and sharpening is typically part of the maker's custom finishing process.

Q: What is broken back seax blade geometry? 

It refers to a spine that angles sharply near the tip, a defining feature of authentic Viking-era long seax construction.

Q: Is this blade set good for gifting? 

Yes, it makes a thoughtful gift for knife makers or bushcraft hobbyists who enjoy building and finishing their own custom knives.

Product Care for JW SteelCrafts Hand-Forged Products

To ensure the longevity and beauty of your hand-forged JW SteelCrafts products, follow these essential care instructions:

1. Regular Cleaning
   Wipe your knives, swords, axes, and rings with a soft cloth to remove dust and debris. For deeper cleaning, use a mild soap solution and a non-abrasive cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives that could damage the steel’s finish.
2. Dry Thoroughly
   After cleaning, ensure your product is completely dried. This helps prevent water spots, rust, or corrosion, particularly on blades and steel surfaces exposed to moisture.
3. Proper Storage
   Store your hand-forged products in a dry, cool place to prevent oxidation or rust. For long-term storage, consider applying a thin layer of oil (e.g., mineral oil or gun oil) to the metal surfaces, or using a rust inhibitor. When storing knives and swords, keep them in protective sheaths or pouches to prevent contact with other materials.
4. Avoid Impact
   While designed for strength and durability, avoid dropping or striking your steel products against hard surfaces. This can cause damage to the blade, edge, or overall integrity of the piece.
5. Edge Maintenance (For Knives & Swords)
   Periodically sharpen the blades to maintain their cutting edge. Use a proper sharpening stone or take your product to a professional for maintenance. Always sharpen in the correct direction to preserve the blade’s integrity.
6. Routine Inspection
   Regularly inspect your products for any signs of wear, rust, or damage. If you notice any issues, reach out to us for maintenance, restoration, or repair services.

By following these care instructions, your JW SteelCrafts products will retain their craftsmanship, functionality, and beauty for years to come.