Hi all - looking for some help. I took an old file I had and used a benchgrinder/grinder/handfile/etc to make a "knife". I have the basic shape cut out and the blade started and I am ready to drill holes and get started on the wood for the handles. Problem is I cannot get a hole drilled for pins no matter what I try. I started with a drill bit I had and a drill press. Wont make a dent. Purchased a cobalt drill bit and still cannot get the bit to start cutting. I know file's are hard but the youtube bladesmiths don't seem to have any problem drilling holes.

What am i doing wrong?

You have to anneal the file, it's too hard to drill.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=atq0Scj1gaY

Use the big red wrench. Your torch. Heat just the drill locations.

...then let it air cool slowly....don’t quench it after you heat it.

Awesome. I will try those suggestions. Thank you.

Torch worked like a charm. I knew you guys would know the secrets.

This project was a "can I do it" type and while the knife is not a work of art or razor sharp I can say that I did make a knife out of a file. I had a blast doing it and have already started another. I used barn wood off the family farm (probably 70-80 years old) for the handle. This knife means a lot to me.

Good job!

BOSCH granite bits will drill through hardened knife steel - done it many times.

Well, where were you when we needed you?