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BLADE Show KNIVES THAT WILL ROCK ATLANTA

Issue
AUGUST 2003

AUGUST 2003

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CONTNEWS.qxd 5/12/03 5:11 PM Page 2

August 2003

BLADE
THE WORLD'S #1 KNIFE PUBLICATION
®

FEATURES
12 War Winners!
Inspect the knives that helped the USA win Operation Iraqi Freedom.
By MSG Kim Breed

20 Now Piquing Interest: Silver Pique

Rediscover an ancient, delicate knife art. By Mike Haskew

28 What To Look For At The BLADE Show

Here’s a list—check it twice and add your own must-see stuff! By BLADE® staff

38 Why Do You Carry A Knife?

Everyday knife users are quizzed and their answers are instructive. By James Ayres

90 44 Find of a Lifetime
Feast your eyes on a treasure-trove of Scagels. By B.R. Hughes

BLADE 67 Nothing Could Be Finer

SPOTLIGHT 82
Meet the man to know in antique arms and armor. By Jim Phillips

Party Time in Puukko Land!

6 Readers Respond Relive the Kauhava Knife Festival, Finland’s showcase of sharp.
7 Cover Story By Harriet Mars-Kellokoski
10 Unsheathed
18 The Knife I Carry
53 Ed Fowler’s Knife Talk 90 Super Seven Salute 9-11 Firefighters
56 Blades in the Movies Benefit knife set will be displayed at the BLADE Show. By BLADE staff
60 Profile in Steel: Bobby Branton
72 Wayne Goddard’s Q&A 118 Pressure? What Pressure?
76 Factory Focus: Ontario/Queen Could you handle the stress of ABS testing? By Darby Neaves
80 Spec Sheet
93 Solder/Braze How-To 131 Do Not Open Until The BLADE Show
96 Show Calendar These factory debuts are dynamite! By Joe Kertzman
97 Where To Net ’Em
98 Next In BLADE 138 The Passion of Peroni
99 BLADE Shoppe
112 BLADE List Consider top handmades through the eyes of a leading collector. By Pierluigi Peroni
113 Classified Ads
114 Where To Get ’Em
146 The Growing Breed of User/Collector
115 Ad Index Do you know one—or are you one? By Mike Haskew
116 What’s New
126 Knifemaker Showcase 152 Testing Their Metal
128 Your Knife Rights Ring the anvil at the 15th Annual Batson Bladesmithing Symposium.
160 Handmade Gallery By Steve Shackleford
162 Hot Handmade

4 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

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High grade pocket knives that illustrate

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162

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 5

RESPOND.qxd 5/7/03 10:43 AM Page 2

readers respond
readers respond
This Is Your Column! And we want to know what you think. BLADE, P.O. Box 789, Ooltewah, TN 37363-0789, or visit our
Do you like what you’ve read in BLADE®? Do you have a Web site: www.blademag.com or e-mail: blademagazine@
complaint? A suggestion? An opinion you’d like to share with krause.com. We reserve the right to edit your comments to fit
the largest knife audience in the world? Mail your comments to: the space available.

Liquidmetal Cautions LETTER OF THE MONTH bution of these knives. Filipino seamen
were ever present during Spanish times and,

F olks, I don’t want to be a wet blanket but

I do want everyone who’s considering T he story on butterfly knives (“Swing
Things,” June BLADE) caught my atten-
tion. The cover of that issue with the BOSS
no doubt, introduced the knife and other
weapons and martial arts skills to Mexico,
California, Florida and Louisiana, and quite
working with Liquidmetal to be fully aware
of the hazards associated with it. butterfly knife was very attractive. possibly even to Spain, as well as other
The Liquidmetal alloy that’s causing The origin of the butterfly knife is places. They still do to some extent.
such a stir (“Liquidmetal Splashdown,” May somewhat controversial. My take on its I would also like to comment on a state-
BLADE®) is a bulk metallic glass that origins are a bit different. For one thing, ment made in the sidebar about Balisong
contains significant quantities of nickel and prior to the Spanish arrival in the Philip- being a city in the Filipino province of
beryllium. While the hazards of pines, the people in the southern parts of Batangas. Unless I’m mistaken, Balisong is
grinding/cutting/welding nickel are well the Pacific Ocean, including what is now not a city. I think the confusion over this
known, beryllium is a much more difficult Malaysia, Indonesia, etc., were skilled in comes from the fact that Batangas City is in
material to work safely. metal working. Moreover, the influence of the province of Batangas.
Beryllium is considered one of the most Hindu-Arabic culture cannot be minimized I could go on and on but will stop now.
dangerous industrial metals. Protecting any more than can the contributions of the It's good to see an article on butterfly
workers from becoming exposed to dust or Chinese. My point is that the technology to knives, though. Regardless of the idiotic
fumes from beryllium is critically impor- make such a blade existed in that part of the bans on the knife that have targeted another
tant. Small exposures may result in a condi- world prior to the Spanish arrival in the product of the Philippines—there are
tion called Chronic Beryllium Disease. The Philippines. others—the truth is that U.S.-made butter-
disease is still not well understood but may My further contention is that the butter- fly knives will always lack something found
develop even with exposures below the fly knife was essentially a concealed in the Philippine-made ones. I know.
OSHA Permissible Exposure Limits. weapon. It was made crudely with the blade
“Preventing Adverse Health Effects positioned between two wooden or bamboo Halford E. Jones, executive editor, Filipino
From Exposure to Beryllium on the Job” is halves, sort of a sword cane, if you will, Martial Arts Magazine
OSHA’s bulletin on how to work with beryl- and perhaps quite lengthy. The unsuspect-
lium and beryllium alloys safely. It’s on the ing person would see merely a “bamboo Editor’s note: The name Bali-Song® is a
Web site staff,” though the blade would be contained registered trademark of Benchmade Knife
http://osha.gov/dts/hib/hib_data/hib1999090 within. Co. As far as U.S.-made butterfly knives
2.html. I somehow fail to see how the French lacking something found in Filipino-made
The Department of Energy and the enter into the development of the butterfly ones, BLADE prefers to think that individ-
manufacturers of beryllium bronze tools knife as postulated in the sidebar of the ual butterfly knives should be judged on a
have worked with beryllium and beryllium BLADE story. Of course, I agree that case-by-case basis rather than by one of
alloys safely, but they have learned the hard seamen most certainly did help in the distri- country of origin.
way and their workers have suffered for it. If
you’re a knifemaker and/or are associated BLADE Show June 13-15 at the Cobb Credit Where Credit Is Due
with a knife company considering making Galleria Centre in Atlanta. For more on the
blades from Liquidmetal, please take the
time to educate yourself on the dangers
associated with beryllium and how to work
seminar and the show, see the special
BLADE Show stories this issue. T hank you for featuring me and my knife
in the “Knifemaker Showcase” of the
November ’02 BLADE. An oversight on
with it safely. my part, however, in the description of the
What Life’s All About knife pictured wouldn’t have pleased one
Mike Crenshaw, Knoxville, Tennessee of my mentors of many years ago. Hence,

Editor’s note: Jerry Croopnick of Liquid-

metal Technologies (LT) recommends using
IBLADE.
tip my hat to James Ayres, author of “Lost
Charm Of Old World Knives” in the June
Too seldom do I see writing such
to give credit where credit is due, the
description properly should have read, “a
Bob Engnath blade of ATS-34 reproduced
respiratory equipment whenever working on as this. His story is a real keeper. A pretty in a Loveless design.” In his catalog, Mr.
Liquidmetal. He added that LT puts stickers girl, a bottle of wine, a laguiole, a Triumph Engnath always credited Loveless where
on its Liquidmetal blade blanks warning of motorbike—isn’t this what life is all about? applicable.
the dangers, and provides Materials Safety I hope to see more stories in BLADE illus-
Data Sheets outlining Liquidmetal’s trating people’s lives and travels. Merle Spencer, Wheeler, Oregon
contents with each initial purchase of the By the way—I hope Ayres didn’t let that
material. Mike Crenshaw, meanwhile, will dark-eyed girl get away!
give a seminar entitled “Hazardous
Substances In The Knife Shop” at the Rick Thompson, Dekalb, Illinois

6 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

CVRSTRY.qxd 5/12/03 4:46 PM Page 2

cover cover story

story
T he MTMOD10 Mawhinney Sniper
Knife from Strider Knives is named
in honor of retired Marine Corps Sgt.
Chuck Mawhinney, who was credited
with 103 confirmed kills and 216 proba-
ble in Vietnam and is recognized as “the
most accomplished Marine Corps scout NEW! Model 520 AXIS™ folder. A cool
sniper.”
Sporting a 5.475-inch blade of CPM Mel Pardue design with the look, feel and
S30V stainless steel with a Rockwell
hardness of 59-60 Rc, the MT features a function of a high-performance cutting
Mil-Spec 550 cord handle wrap and a
cordura sheath with a Kydex® liner tool for the 21st century. All
configured for multiple carry. Manufac-
turer’s suggested retail price: $325. The the muscle and macho
official versions of the knife for applicable to get things done.
Marine Cor ps personnel are marked
“USMC 8541,” the 8541 being the Marine
sniper’s “MOS”—Military Occupational
Specialty.
According to Strider’s Duane Dwyer,
the knife is presented as the “Instructor’s Unique handle
Choice Award” to special graduates of treads offer
four U.S. Marine sniper schools, and, at secure grip
both ways.
press time, was in the process of being
Shipping later
approved as same for one sniper school this year!
each of the Army and Navy.
For more information, see the story on
page 12 or contact Strider Knives, attn: D.
Dwyer, Dept. BL8, 120 N. Pacific St.,
Unit L-7, San Marcos, CA 92069 (760) NEW! Model 310 Benchmite™
471-8275 [email protected].
The cover photo is by Bob Best. folder. It’s mind teasing innovation in motion
with the LEVITATOR™ mechanism from
Bill McHenry and Jason Williams.
See ‘em live at
the BLADE Show
in Atlanta!

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AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 7

MASTHEAD.qxd 5/8/03 12:54 PM Page 2

BLADE
®

WORLD'S #1 KNIFE MAGAZINE

Vol. XXX, No. 8, August 2003
Publishers Of

And Cutlery Retailer

Staff
Divisional Publisher
HUGH MCALOON
Editor
STEVE SHACKLEFORD
Managing Editor
JOE KERTZMAN
Advertising Manager
BRUCE WOLBERG
Advertising Sales
MISSY BEYER, EXT. 642
JASON SMITH, EXT. 809
800-272-5233
Advertising Assistant
MARY ANN RICE
Art Director
STEVE MASSIE
Graphic Designer
JEROMY BOUTWELL
Field Editors
ED FOWLER, WAYNE GODDARD, MSG KIM
BREED, ALFRED PENDRAY, PETE HAMIL-
TON, LOWELL BRAY, STEVE SCHWARZER,
DEXTER EWING, BUD LANG
Correspondents
RICHARD D. WHITE—COLORADO
B.R. HUGHES––ARKANSAS
JIM BATSON—ALABAMA
BILL HERNDON––CALIFORNIA
e-mail address
[email protected]
Web address
www.blademag.com
Subscription Services
(715) 445-3775 EXT. 257
BLADE® (ISSN 1064-5853) is published monthly, including the direc-
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tions, Inc. All rights reserved except where expressly waived. POST-
MASTER: Send address changes to BLADE, 700 E. State St., Iola, WI
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ing a manuscript and/or material shall constitute as expressed by the
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ers, expressed or implied herein, are not necessarily those of the
publisher, editor, or Krause Publications and they assume no responsibil-
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and sale of certain types of knives is restricted or prohibited by federal,
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8 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

937509_BL.qxd 5/8/03 7:46 AM Page 1
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unsheathed
unsheathed
■ By Steve Shackleford

The
Last
Chop
Off
T
he Last Chop Off may sound more
like Marie Antoinette’s swan song
than a cutting competition, but that’s
Jerry Fisk—here cutting multiple water-filled cans in one pass—will devise some
the nickname the principals have lovingly cutting events the contestants have never seen before for the “First American Blade-
given the “First American Bladesmith smith Society World Championship Cutting Competition: The Finals” during the
Society World Championship Cutting BLADE Show June 13-15 at the Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta.
Competition: The Finals,” which promises
to be one of the more memorable events in [see story on page 152].) “And in this As for the knives themselves, each
BLADE Show history. corner, weight unknown, John ‘Fist of contestant may enter only one and it must
The inaugural ABS cutting champi- Fury’ Fitch. And in this corner, from be of his construction. The blade can be no
onship will be held during the 22nd Tornado Alley, the Tahlequah Terror, Ray longer than 10 inches and the overall knife
Annual BLADE Show June 13-15 at the Kirk. And, in this corner, the Michigan length cannot exceed 15 inches. The knife
Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta—on Mauler, Mike Bauer. And finally, in this handle must have one visible pin and a
Saturday, June 14, at 1:45 p.m. in “The corner, the Mountain View “Manster,” Jim hole for a lanyard.
Courtyard” (a.k.a. the parking lot of the Crowell.” Except for the 2x4 chop—an event high
adjacent Renaissance Waverly Hotel). Be that as it may, while many of you on the action/excitement scale—the events
It will be the first time the ABS has know how credible the WWF is—or isn’t— for the ABS cutting championships will be
ever brought together the winners of its there will be no credibility issues with The those that the contestants have never seen
major cutting competitions conducted over Last Chop Off. All the events in the ABS before. Fisk’s prowess at devising the most
the past year to face each other in a single cutting championship will be monitored challenging and exasperating cutting and/or
event. closely by experienced judges who have chopping events is legend in the ABS.
The contestants will be ABS master done this kind of thing before. If the judges Of course, there are cutting competi-
smith Kevin Cashen of Hubbardston, determine that the blade of a competing tions where a single event may be more
Michigan; ABS journeyman smith John knife incurs a chipped or rolled edge or daunting, such as rope cuts in which the
Fitch of Clinton, Arkansas; ABS journey- other flaws after each cut, the offending contestant must sever, in one swipe, multi-
man smith Ray Kirk of Tahlequah, Okla- knife and contestant will face disqualifica- ple 1-inch ropes all taped together.
homa; Michigan bladesmith Mike Bauer; tion. In addition, a point system will deter- However, the events in the ABS cutting
and a wild card, ABS master smith Jim mine the winner. As with all ABS cutting competitions are so diverse that they
Crowell of Mountain View, Arkansas. competitions, there will be no subjective require a knife that’s much more versatile
Sophomoric and jaded as it might be, judging in this one, folks. The winner will than one that will simply cut rope, for
my first reaction to the announcement of be decided fair and square in the arena. instance. Moreover, the events are
the championships was to visualize some- In case you’re unfamiliar with the ABS arranged in such a sequence that each
thing straight out of the World Wrestling cutting competitions, they include such succeeding one increasingly dulls the blade
Federation (WWF). I could almost hear the events as chopping a 2x4 in half, cutting a edge so that it makes it that much more
competition’s organizer, ABS master smith 6-inch length of free-hanging 1-inch diff icult for the blade to excel in the
Jerry Fisk, barking into the wireless mike, rope—sometimes dangling by a thread for follow-up event. Let me tell you, when it
“In this corner, from parts unknown, added difficulty—and a variety of others comes to concocting new cutting events,
weighing in at 185 pounds, General in which the knives participate to gauge Fisk isn’t considered a “devious genius”
William Tecumseh Sherman Cashen.” their sharpness, edge holding, edge geome- for nothing!
(General Sherman was the name of try, overall handling, etc. Of course, the Viewing the event will be restricted to
Cashen’s winning knife at the Batson physical ability of the contestant is also a BLADE Show ticket holders only. You
Bladesmithing Symposium this past April key factor. won’t want to miss this one!

10 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

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iraq.qxd 5/9/03 8:43 AM Page 12

freedom blades
freedom blades
The M.O.D. Hawk (left, below) and Spyderco Civil-
ian are just two of the knives that saw action in
Operation Iraqi Freedom. The author said the
Civilian “cuts just about everything.” Formerly the Lady Hawk—
it’s designed by Black-Belt-Hall-of-Famer Graciela Casillas—the
“Lady” was dropped and the newly christened “Hawk” experienced
a healthy increase in sales among military personnel, M.O.D.’s Jim
Ray chuckled. MSRP: $189.98 ($270 in auto version).

A destroyed Iraqi howitzer

sits silent among other
enemy wreckage in Basra.

By MSG Kim Breed

5th Special Forces Group (retired)

12 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

iraq.qxd 5/9/03 8:45 AM Page 13

uring Operation Iraqi Freedom, I well and most models sharpen easily. to the soldier’s lack of standard tools, the

D again found myself watching the

actions of my fellow men in arms.
Along with millions of other television
Because of their widespread use, they also
are the most abused. They’re used for
everything from prying to stabbing to
multi-tool is used almost every day.
Whether fixing gear, equipment or vehi-
cles, there’s always a use for one.
viewers, I received the special privilege of throwing. In fact, the blade tips on at least As for the demolition knives, they’re
seeing live reports from the battlefields of 60 percent of them are broken as a result often “unofficially requisitioned” from the
Iraq thanks to the reporters who were of the knives being thrown. Blades break at demolition chest, which really ticks off the
embedded with some of the military units. the guard from prying or digging but most demo man because he’s the one who signs
It enabled many to experience the sights soldiers will have another kabar in their for them. They’re made from a non-spark-
and sounds of war through a soldier’s point bags “just in case.” ing stainless steel to guard against acciden-
of view. It wasn’t glamorous but it was a The Swiss Army knife is just plain tally detonating explosives. They don’t
chance to see America’s finest in action— handy to have around. The SwissChamp hold an edge very well but they are free—
the men and women of the U.S. Armed seems to be the favorite model because of as long as the demo guy doesn’t find out
Forces doing their job. its many tools. A very f ine tweezers about it.
The news coverage was good enough located in the handle is worth its weight in As far as the soldier’s personal choice
that I could recognize a lot of the ground I gold whenever bothersome stickers, thorns, for knives, the sky’s the limit, meaning
covered with my fellow combatants in etc., need to be removed. Meanwhile, due some like them big such as the Katz
1991 during Operation Desert Storm.
However, Operation Iraqi Freedom was
different from both Desert Storm and the
war in Afghanistan. This time, our troops
pushed the offensive and didn’t have to
deal with Pan-Arab coalition forces. You
would have thought that after Desert Storm
Iraq would have complied with the rules
set by the United Nations. With the United
States being the “big boy on the block”
now, it will have a hand in policing every
corner of the world. I know that this puts
our sons and daughters in harm’s way, but
they have the training and the equipment to
come out on top.

Knives In Action

n addition to the knives mentioned

I in the story, other factory pieces
seeing action in Operation Iraqi Free-
dom include: the Gerber Trident;
M.O.D. Scorpion; Emerson CQC-7;
Camillus/Becker Knife & Tool Model
7 (in both regular black and desert
camo); Chris Reeve Knives Green
Beret; Smith & Wesson S.W.A.T.
knives; Ontario RTAK; tomahawks,
especially the spike models, including
those from American Tomahawk Co.
and Ryan Johnson; and the
GATCO/Timberline Lightfoot
Zambezi. There are others.

The Soldier’s Choice

Even though a lot of units are issued bayo-
nets, when it comes to equipment, knives
are the soldier’s choice. Special Forces The so-called body-
units used to be able to sign for M-3 bayo- guard pieces 6 inches
nets, though I only saw two in the field. long and under included
Most of the guys “in Group” carry knives such as Gino Denning’s
suited to their liking. Four knives are the utility (left). Meanwhile, as
most common—the generic kabar or the brass banned larger
knives among some of the
USMC fighting utility, Swiss Army knife,
troops, folders such as the
a multi-tool and the demolition knife. Al Mar Knives SERE,
The kabar has been a soldier’s blade for already popular, became
a long time. Its low price makes it even more so.
extremely affordable to all soldiers. It cuts

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 13

iraq.qxd 5/9/03 8:52 AM Page 14

Most Accomplished Marine Sniper’s Knife

freedom blades
freedom blades
Aristo-Kat, Mercworx Equatorian and
ue to the friendship between Strider and elk without sharpening it, which is Cold Steel Trailmaster bowie. Kraton
D Knives’ Duane Dwyer and legendary
Vietnam War sniper Chuck Mawhinney,
impressive.”
The civilian version of the knife has
handles are preferred and Micarta® comes
in second. Big is better, though it’s best for
the new Model MTMOD10 Mawhinney Mawhinney’s signature and “Sniper” on soldiers if they use a gun in a knife fight
Sniper Knife from Strider Knives might the blade, while the official knives to the with the enemy.
be termed a “buddy blade”—though it’s military have “USMC 8541” on them. Mid-range knives include the Ka-Bar
so much more than that. The “8541” is the military occupational USMC fighting/utility, TOPS Firestrike,
Dwyer has known Mawhinney— specialty (MOS) of the Marine sniper. assorted Strider knives (see sidebar) and
credited with 103 confirmed kills and “[The 8541] is something we try to hold the Randall No. 1. Most of the mid-range
216 probable in Vietnam, “the most back because it only goes to guys who pieces are fairly straightforward in design.
accomplished Marine Cor ps scout are bona-fide 8541s,” Duane said. This size is the most popular. A few are
sniper”—for some time. “I became According to Dwyer, the knife is made with double edges for primary fight-
involved professionally with Chuck awarded as the “Instructor’s Choice ing but they’re all used for utility—chop-
because I’ve known the guy for years Award” at the 1st Marine Division Scout ping wood, cutting rope, prying and
and he liked this particular [MT] model Sniper School; 1st Marine Expedi- throwing. Mumblety-peg games break out
of Strider knife—the size, the shape—so tionary Force Special Operations Train- with all soldiers no matter what their unit.
I asked him if he was interested in ing Group, Urban Sniper School; 2nd All the variations come into play with
endorsing it,” Duane said. Mawhinney Marine Expeditionary Force Special the 6-inch-and-under group. These are the
agreed. His favorite is the 10-inch Operations Training Group, Urban so-called bodyguard knives, where you’ll
model, which comes with a 5.475-inch Sniper School; 2nd Marine Division find most of the handmade pieces, such as
blade of CPM S30V stainless steel and a Scout Sniper School; and, at press time, Geno Denning’s utility and Bison Blades’
cordura sheath with a Kydex® liner plans were under way to make the award neck knife. I’ve seen a lot of John Greco
conf igured for multiple carry. “Two of the knife to the U.S. Army’s Sniper knives among the troops in recent years,
years ago, Duane gave me the knife,” School and the U.S. Navy’s Naval too. These smaller knives use higher-end
Mawhinney noted. “I used it for hunting Special Warfare Sniper School. For blade materials, such as CPM S30V, S90V
and liked the feel, balance and the way more on the knife, contact Strider and S60V in the stainlesses, and
it handles. One of the things that Knives, attn: D. Dwyer, Dept. BL8, 120 Talonite®, Stellite® and titanium. Most of
impressed me most of all is the steel the N. Pacific, Unit L-7, San Marcos, CA the sheaths are worn close to the body and
blade is made of. I field dressed a deer 92069 (760) 471-8275 slim. Kydex and leather are the materials
[email protected]. of choice. A few of the factory knives that
fit this category are the SOG Field Pup,
Fallkniven F1 and Camillus Arclite.
Soldiers in Special Forces have never
had any restrictions placed on their knives.
As the war was heating up, another unit
had passed the word that no big knives
would be allowed. Give the soldier a
loaded weapon but tell him that he can’t
take a big knife to war—makes no sense to
me. They have to carry it so let them use
what they want. As a result of the big knife
The Chuck Mawhinney MTMOD10 ban, pocketknife and neck knife ownership
from Strider Knives boasts a 5.475- rose dramatically among the troops. The Al
inch blade of CPM S30V stainless Mar SERE 2000, Columbia River Knife &
steel and a MIL-SPEC 550 paracord Tool Kit Carson M-16, Buck 110, Masters
handle wrap. MSRP: $325. of Defense (M.O.D.) folders—including
the Hawk—and the Spyderco Police and
Civilian models all are in regular use.
Some soldiers carry a handmade folder
from a knifemaker they know. The style
usually is a utility blade, though a few—
including me—like the dagger style or
“sticker.” You will still see a few of the $5-
$10 knives but most soldiers buy the high-
est-quality piece they can afford.

The Auto Question

Now it’s time to discuss the automatics.
You know as well as I that plenty of Liner-
Locks® are faster opening but it’s just
“cool” to push a button or slide a liner and
have a blade jump out. Benchmade auto-
matics are in the inventory in Group, so a
lot of the troops carry them. The Microtech

14 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

940435_BL.qxd 5/8/03 7:52 AM Page 1

UC1356GSNB WRIGHT BROTHERS™

100th ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATIVE FOLDER

THE WRIGHT BROTHERS

and other marks™ and © by
The Wright Family Fund
www.wrightbrothers2003.com

HD0047 HARLEY-DAVIDSON®
100th ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATIVE FOLDER

©2003 H-D
Harley-Davidson® is a
registered trademark of
Harley-Davidson Motor Co.

FD0002GSNB FORD® ©2003 Ford Motor Company.

Ford Motor Company Script, Ford Oval,
100th ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATIVE FOLDER & Mustang, are trademarks used under
license from Ford Motor Company.
©2003 The Beanstalk Group.

Additional versions of each commemorative are also available.

See our full line of Harley-Davidson®, Ford®, Wright Brothers™ and First Flight Centennial™ knives at knife dealers
worldwide. Dealer inquiries invited, call 1-800-548-0835 and ask for Dept. BL8, or fax 865-428-2267.
Visit our website at www.unitedcutlery.com. Exclusively from United® Cutlery Brands.
1425 United Blvd.
Sevierville, TN 37876 ©2003 United Cutlery Corp.
iraq.qxd 5/9/03 8:53 AM Page 16

freedom blades
freedom blades
Among the hawks that reportedly were
most popular among the troops in Iraqi
Operation Freedom were such models as
the spike, here by Joe Flournoy. Steel is
S-7 and the haft is curly maple.
(KnifeShop.tv photo)

SOCOM and Mini SOCOM are excellent

performers. M.O.D. automatics hold up
well, Pro-Tech’s Godfather is a nasty look-
ing sticker and, of course, Charles Ochs’
Black Knife has been in special operations
units for a long time.
On the Iraqi side, you might see an
AK-47 bayonet similar to a German-made
version I obtained through channels or a
knife made from a sharpened piece of 55-
gallon drum. Very few knives were being
conf iscated from the Iraqis. Guns and
bullets were their concerns. They just
weren’t equipped very well—Saddam
needed gold-plated toilets instead.

Conclusion
My heart bleeds for the lives of lost loved
ones and my prayers go out to the friends
and families of our fallen soldiers. This is
the price that a soldier is willing to pay to
defend his/her country. No soldier thinks
about it but that is his/her job. From a clerk
typist to Special Forces, everyone is issued
a rifle and knows how to use it effectively,
so show them your support. They fight for Mid-range knives fairly
straightforward in design,
your right to have the freedom you enjoy such as the Becker Knife &
each and every day. Whether or not you Tool Model 7 (also available in
agree with the war, the right to disagree is desert camo) and TOPS Fire-
what was being fought for. Don’t forget it. strike (right), were the most
popular among U.S. troops in
For the contact information for the knives Operation Iraqi Freedom. A
illustrated herein, see “Where To Get ’Em” few are made with double
on page 114. edges for primary fighting but
all are used for utility—chop-
ping wood, cutting rope,
prying and throwing.

16 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

931398_BL.qxd 4/14/03 7:48 AM Page 1

© 2003 Gerber Legendary Blades, a Fiskars Brands Company

F R E E M A N ™ F I X E D H U N T E R . WITH
GERBERBLADES.COM

A DROP POINT, FULL TANG STAINLESS

STEEL BLADE, AND POLISHED PEAR WOOD
HANDLES, THE FREEMAN IS THE PERFECT
SKINNING KNIFE FOR GETTING YOUR LADY
THE CUDDLY FRIEND SHE'S ALWAYS ASKING
FOR. AND THEY SAY WE NEVER LISTEN.
KNIFEICARY.qxd 5/9/03 9:08 PM Page 2

the knife i carry

the knife i carry

“I’m a big Emerson fan. I love my handmade CQC-6 and

my everyday carry knife is a Mini-Commander from
“The knife I’ve carried every day for 20 years is a Schrade LBS Emerson Knives, Inc.”
lockback with a 2 1/8-inch stainless-steel blade. On one special occa-
sion this ‘ordinary pocketknife’ saved my youngest daughter, —Rei Maruoka, Charlotte, North Carolina
Stephanie, who was 3 at the time, from injury or worse. On her way
home from pre-school, she fell asleep in the back of her grand-
mother’s car. As Stephanie dozed, her hair became entangled in the

in
retractable rollers of a seat belt. When she woke up, she was unable
to get free and began to cry, at which point I pulled out my Schrade

WKn ife!
and cut her hair free. Stephanie had a new haircut and her grand-
mother was furious at me for using my knife.”

—Terry Warner, Ojai, California

“ The knife I carry is a Benchmade 710 McHenry

& Williams Axis Lock with M-2 steel. Everyday I
A Just tell us briefly what knife you
carry. Add a little history or an
find a reason to use it and it's never let me down. interesting anecdote. Tr y to
On days I need a little less knife in my pocket, I include a sharp photograph of
carry a Klein 44033. This is an excellent pock-
etknife and it's sad that it doesn't get much notice
you and your knife. We’ll publish
from the knife press. With the wood inserts, it's your comments in an upcoming
also a very attractive knife that elicits a lot of “The Knife I Carry.” Your name
compliments. Both knives will hold an edge will then be entered in a drawing
almost forever and should I ever lose or wear to win a free stag-handle

”
either out, I won’t hesitate to replace it with an Robeson two-blade pocketknife.
identical one. The drawing will be held Nov.
15, 2003. Mail to: Blade Maga-
—J.M. Williams, Richland, Washington zine®, P.O. Box 789, Ooltewah,
TN 37363-0789, or e-mail
[email protected].

18 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

939156_BL.qxd 5/9/03 7:38 PM Page 1

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• Limited Production of 600 For Each Pattern
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C. 042196 3 5/8” Physicians knife with clip point master blade & spatula blade. MSRP $129.62
D. 043299 3 1/2” Equal end Split back spring whittler with lined and pinched bolsters and spear point master blade. MSRP $153.38
E. 041131 4 1/2” Mountain Man folding lockback hunter with clip point master blade and lanyard tube. MSRP $137.42
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silverpique.qxd 5/7/03 10:21 AM Page 20

silver studs
silver studs

Time consuming and challenging,

applying silver pique to knife
handles is one stylish selling point
By Mike Haskew

Combining pique work with another popular knife embellishment—check-

ering—involves placing the pique pins, and then using a file to create a
checked pattern around the pins in the handle. Knife purveyor Gary Shaw
says, “Certainly, this is a selling point on a Rick Browne knife, because a
big deal has been made of it. Not only is it checkered pearl, but in the
center of each check is a silver pin. That took a huge amount of work, and
people appreciate the effort.” Browne’s traditional three-blade folder also
features a handle shield and carved bolsters. (PointSeven photo)

20 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

silverpique.qxd 5/7/03 10:23 AM Page 21

“Ken Steigerwalt uses pique, and

his pieces display a strong, tradi-
tional influence,” said knife
purveyor Gary Shaw. Steigerwalt’s
double-edged folding damascus Technology with an Edge
dagger also features a checked
mother-of-pearl handle and carved
gold bolsters. (PointSeven photo)
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Blade......3 1/4 in. (8.4cm.)

Steel.......440A stainless,
ti-nitride-coated
Handle...Polyamide
o some, it may have been lost. To “It was, for a time, a lost art,”

T others, it simply maintained a low

profile. Today, the artistry of silver
pique is receiving plenty of attention in the
commented Gary Shaw, purveyor of hand-
made knives, “but there were certain
knives that the public had been made
Closed....4 1/2 in. (11.3cm.)
Weight ...3.5 oz.

greater realm of knives. aware of, and those pieces led to more
In layman’s terms, silver pique, as it silver pique work. People have collected
relates to knives, involves the arrange- old pocketknives forever, but all of a
ment of silver pins into ornate, decora- sudden the English exhibition knives have
tive designs on knife handles. The come forward as the “créme de la créme.”
technique was extremely popular during One of the reasons for this is that pique
the heyday of Sheffield knifemaking and work is among the aspects of quality that
provided those skilled English artisans are seen in great antique works. Silver
with another venue for showcasing their pique has always been around, but this is For information or a dealer near you, call:
talent. Sheffield-style silver pique was the first time that I have seen guys doing it 1-800-325-2891
typically found on ivory or mother-of- on reproduction bowies, for example, and www.kershawknives.com
pearl knife handles. so many knifemakers are tackling that kind
AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 21
silverpique.qxd 5/7/03 10:24 AM Page 22

silver studs
silver studs

Barry Davis combines pique with a checked-mother-of-pearl

handle, a gold bail, and a damascus blade and bolsters.
(PointSeven photo)

of work.” also quickly discovered that the silver izes in making multi-blade folders. A
It was, in fact, photographs of vintage pique process was painstaking. First, former certified public accountant who
bowie knives made by Samuel Bell that where did the patterns originate? Remem- changed careers, Rogers enjoys building
inspired Ken Durham to try his hand at bering something he heard about Bell at a traditional pocketknife patterns, such as
silver pique. Bell was a knifemaker who bowie symposium during a North Carolina the English jack, sowbelly, stockman and
worked during the early 19th century and knife show, Durham realized that the fruit knife. “The pique suits the older
lived, at times, in both Tennessee and maker’s work with watches had probably patterns,” he said, “and that book [of
Texas. Bell was a watchmaker and silver- facilitated his pattern accuracy. Using the Sheffield exhibition knives] has been a
smith who combined his talents to produce gears from watches, and the movement of major influence for me and for other
outstanding knives with decorative those gears, as possible patterns provided people. It shows what the Sheffield makers
handles. insight into Bell’s work. used to do and how complicated and
“Jim Batson and Alex Daniels showed ornate it was. There is some amazing stuff
me some pictures of Bell’s work,” said in [the book].”
Durham. “These knives were bowies and Applying silver pique to five or six
large dirks. I had not seen a lot of silver “All of a sudden, the replica Sheff ield pieces per year, Rick
pique, but Alex had been doing it for some Browne has been making knives for nearly
time. Well, I looked at those pictures and English exhibition three decades. His introduction to the
then I thought about it for a year. When silver pique process came through photos
you’re working with something an inch knives have come in a jewelry manufacturing book. “I was
wide and you miss it [putting in a hole] by
ten-thousandths-of-an-inch, you don’t
forward as the allowed to play with an original pre-1837
Sheffield exhibition knife that had never
really see that, but when you’re working
with something twenty-thousandths-of-an-
créme de la créme.” been photographed,” he commented. “A
couple years after seeing that piece, I
inch and you miss by that much, you’re —Gary Shaw started doing my own silver pique work.
halfway off the mark. I just couldn’t see There are a lot of knifemaking techniques
how they did silver pique so well.” that I want to learn.”
Browne is not so sure that the art of
The Gears Were Turning The Sheffield Exhibition Knives book silver pique ever really disappeared. He
When Durham took the plunge into work- by Bill Claussen, Brad Watts and Peter prefers to consider its renewed popularity
ing with silver pique, he knew his focus McMickle brought silver pique to the as a changing trend, and he even correlates
would be on decorating bowie knives. He attention of Richard Rogers, who special- the downfall of Victorian-era pique, in

22 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

939387_BL.qxd 5/12/03 12:10 PM Page 1
silverpique.qxd 5/12/03 5:06 PM Page 24

silver studs
silver studs
part, to advances in technology at that
time. “I don’t know if it was ever a lost
art,” he reasoned, “or if it went out of style.
It was popular in the Victorian era, but
tastes do change. Of course, late in the
Victorian era, we became a machine-
oriented society that could pump out 5,000
pieces of something at the lowest cost.
Labor-intensive processes like pique work
were probably reserved for a few high-end
pieces.”

“If something were

to happen on the
187th pin, that is
when you cry.”
—Richard Rogers

From the creative point of view, “labor

intensive” is a good description of the
pique process. Some knifemakers have
learned the art from others, but it is fair to
say that nearly as many have been self-
taught through trial and error.
“I have only done silver pique on ivory
and wood,” noted Durham. “The only thing

EXQUISITEKNIVES.COM
about pearl is that you have to drill so
many holes in it, and the process takes a
long time. Some handles have as many as
300 holes. You’ve got to spin the drill bits
pretty fast, especially on African black-
wood. African blackwood is oily, so that
when you insert a pin, it sticks. The silver
pins are hard enough that you can drive
them, but soft enough to fill the hole. I use
a small ball peen hammer to tap them into
the holes.”
Browne taught himself the silver pique
technique, drilling holes as small as .008-
inch, but typically using .015-inch sterling
silver wire. “It is time consuming and frus-
trating,” he acknowledged. “I figure, on a
good day, that I can drill 18 holes an hour.
My loss rate in [ruined] handles is about
20 percent, so about one in every five.
They [handle slabs] come in matched sets,
See us
and if you stick a drill in that sucker [one
at the
slab of mother-of-pearl, for example] and
Blade Show
make a mistake, then bye-bye mother-of-
Table 4-P
pearl. When that happens, you stare at the
wall with a cup of coffee for a few
minutes.”

The 187th Pin

REPRESENTING THE OPPORTUNITY OF A LIFETIME Rogers agrees that the silver pique process
FOR THE DISCRIMINATING COLLECTOR is tedious, requiring an extensive invest-
ment in time and patience. The technique,
DAVID ELLIS – ABS MASTERSMITH – PURVEYOR he says, is not complicated in itself.
380 S. Melrose Dr., Ste 407 • Vista, CA 92083
Daytime Ph: (760) 643-4032 Evening Ph:(760) 945-7177• E-mail: [email protected] “Depending on the complexity, the time
can add up, especially when you have the
24 / BLADE AUGUST 2003
933964_BL.qxd 4/14/03 1:14 PM Page 1

THEY HAVE FOUGHT WARS,

BUILT ENTIRE CITIES,

HELD THEIR GRANDCHILDREN

AND WIPED AWAY TEARS.

THEY DESERVE A REWARD.

Introducing the sintered titanium blade of the 188 Zeta. It’s more than a knife, it’s a Boker.
For a free catalog of nearly 200 knives, call 1.800.992.6537 ext.20 or www.bokerusa.com.
silverpique.qxd 5/7/03 10:25 AM Page 26

silver studs
silver studs

Leave it to knifemaker Dan Burke to

figure out a way to mesh Simon
Lytton engraving with a tortoise-
shell handle and silver pique.
(PointSeven photo)

risk of loss,” noted the maker. “If some- material, mainly because the sizes of their
thing were to happen on the 187th pin, that pique holes are so small and the duration
is when you cry.” of the drilling is short. “I take a small,
Most makers have experienced little malleable wire and force it into a hole
trouble with scorching or chipping handle drilled in a natural material,” related

See us
at THE Tomonari Hamada checked the
BLADE SHOW mother-of-pearl handle of his
wharncliffe whittler, finishing it
with fine silver pique work.
(PointSeven photo)

26 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

silverpique.qxd 5/8/03 12:50 PM Page 27

Browne. “Then, I take an embossing punch

and form something like a rivet head on UNDERSTATED OPULENCE...
top of it. A lot of people will file the rivet
heads flat, but I like them because they never goes out of style.
make the grip more interesting.”
Browne advises the use of sharp drill
bits to avoid handle-material breakage, and
he runs a continuous air stream to keep the
drilled holes free of debris, and to avoid
binding the drill.
While silver pique has become less
prominent in recent years, Shaw points out
that it is a part of knifemaking history and
that many knife collectors are familiar
with the technique to an extent. It does
add value to a piece. Combining pique
Chesapeake Knife & Tool is proud to present
work with another popular knife embel- a William Henry exclusive that defines style in
lishment—checkering—involves placing modern gent’s folders. This 100 piece limited
the pique pins, and then using a file to edition of the world-renowned model T10 uses
create a checked pattern around the pins in dramatic gold inlay against black in a highly
the handle. “Certainly, this is a selling wearable and collectable pocket knife.
point on a Rick Browne knife,” said Shaw,
“because a big deal has been made of it.
Not only is it checkered pearl, but in the
center of each check is a silver pin. That Features:
took a huge amount of work, and people Koftgari 24K gold inlaid bolsters.
appreciate the effort. Arizona Ironwood handles over a
titanium frame.
Tungsten DLC coated blade with
24K gold logo.
“I figure, on a good Tiger’s eye thumbstone and leather lanyard. www.chesapeakeknifeandtool.com
day, that I can drill Retail $499.99 1-800-531-1168
18 holes an hour.”
—Rick Browne
“Ken Steigerwalt uses pique, and his
pieces display a strong, traditional influ-
ence,” continued Shaw. “Likewise, last
June, I did some judging at the BLADE
Show, and Harvey Dean won Best Fixed
Blade with a copy of a Daniel Searles
bowie that is on display at the Alamo. That
knife also has pique work.”
An old favorite has become new again
in silver pique, adding a grand and artistic
dimension to any knife. Silver pique gives
knife collectors still more pride of owner-
ship, and the current demand for it indi-
cates that those collectors who were
previously unaware of it are showing inter-
est. “I sell knives with silver pique as fast
as I can make them,” Durham said.
Similarly, Browne jokes that recently
he kept a new silver-pique knife for “a full
five days.” “The only reason I had it that
long,” he admitted, “is because I didn’t tell
anybody I made it so I could take it to a
knife show.”

For the addresses of the knifemakers in this

story, see “Where To Get ’Em” on page
114.

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 27

bladeshowpreview.qxd 5/9/03 11:41 AM Page 28

BLADE show
BLADE show

By BLADE® staff

The ABS board-of-directors knife will be one of several pieces

sold at the ABS auction during the BLADE Show. The 12-
inch blade of the Southwestern-style bowie is forged of
5160 by Bill Moran. Jerry Fisk ground the blade, Bert
Gaston heat treated it and Greg Neely finished it.
Rick Dunkerley forged, fileworked and blued the
guard. Jay Hendrickson made the leather-
covered wood sheath (not shown), and Jim
Batson fashioned the throat and tip,
which is fileworked and blued by
Dunkerley to match the guard. The
winning bidder will also receive
original concept sketches of the
knife drawn by Moran—accord-
ing to Don Fogg, a first-ever
feature for the board knife.
(PointSeven photo)

(From left) John Fitch, Jim Crowell and Mike Bauer

will be among the five entrants—Kevin Cashen and
Ray Kirk will be the other two—in the BLADE Show’s
much-anticipated “First ABS World Championship
Cutting Competition: The Finals” or, as the contest-
ants call it, “The Last Chop Off.”

28 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

bladeshowpreview.qxd 5/9/03 11:50 AM Page 29

hen cutlery enthusiasts from all

W parts known and unknown

converge on the Cobb Galleria
Centre in Atlanta, Georgia, for the BLADE
Show June 13-15, they will be pleasantly
surprised at the maturation of their favorite
annual rendezvous of sharp. Among the
show’s growth spurts:
•More custom knifemaker tables and
factory knife booths—and thus knives—
than ever before;
•An overhauled slate of seminars that
will include the first-ever American Blade-
smith Society world championship cutting
competition finals; a chance to meet and
question David Morrell, the creator of the
Rambo character, and Blade Magazine
Cutlery Hall-Of-Famer® Gil Hibben, one
of the makers of the Rambo movie knives;
the opportunity to meet and quiz Tom
Brown, tracker and survivalist who brain-
stormed The Tracker knife for the hit
movie, The Hunted; a discussion of a new
steel laminating process for blades called
diffusion-bonded damascus; an instruc-
tional on bladesmithing for children; one
on how to buy and sell your knives on the
Internet; and more;

“An overhauled
seminar slate will
include the first-
ever ABS world
championship
cutting competition
finals.”
—the author

•A new Blade Magazine Knife-Of-

The-Year Award® and two new BLADE
Show Custom Knife Awards (for more on
them, see sidebar);
•Perhaps the most impressive lineup of
knives in the history of the show’s ABS
knife auction, including what ABS master
smith Jerry Fisk said may be the best-ever
ABS board-of-directors knife. As Bill
Moran put it, the knife “sure is a wicked-
looking thing”;
•A special group of multi-talented
Swedish knifemaking exhibitors, including
Jonny Walker Nilsson, Jörgen Sundström,
Anders Hogstrom, Conny Persson and
Johan Gustaffson;
•A landmark exhibit of seven knives in
memory of the 9-11/World Trade Center
tragedy will be showcased in the center
display of the main show hall. The knives
are made by seven of the world’s top knife-
makers and will be auctioned later this

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 29

bladeshowpreview.qxd 5/9/03 8:02 PM Page 30

BLADE Show Seminar/Event Schedule BLADE show

BLADE show
year, with the proceeds going to the New
Friday, June 13 York Firefighters Burn Unit at New York
11:30 a.m. ABS Knife Auction—Room 103 Presbyterian Hospital Weill Cornell
Medical Center (for more on the knives,
Saturday, June 14 see the special story this issue);
8:00 a.m. Randall Knife Society Meeting—Room 103 •A display of a one-of-a-kind collec-
9:00 a.m. 30-Minute Yoga Intro For Deep Relaxation & Stress Reduction tion of knives made by Blade Magazine
—Jot Singh Khalsa, Room 107 Cutlery Hall-Of-Famer® William Scagel
10:00 a.m. How To Throw Knives & Tomahawks—Bobby Branton, (for more on it, see the special story this
The Courtyard issue);
10:30 a.m. Status Of The High-Performance Knife—Ed Fowler, Room 110 •David Morrell, creator of Rambo and
11:00 a.m. Diffusion-Bonded Damascus—Grace Horne, Room 107 author of the new book, The Protector,
11:30 a.m. Bladesmithing For Kids—Joe Keeslar, Room 108 featuring Ernest Emerson’s CQC-7B, will
12:00 p.m. The Knife From The Hunted—Tom Brown, TOPS Knives, be at the Emerson Knives, Inc., booth for
Room 107 much of the show selling and autographing
12:30 p.m. How To Forge Knives—Bill Moran & Jay Hendrickson on the Ken copies of the new book;
Mankel Mobile Forge, The Courtyard
12:30 p.m. Buck Collectors Club—Room 103
1 p.m. Rambo & Me—David Morrell and Gil Hibben, Room 107
1:45 p.m. First ABS World Championship Cutting Competition: The Finals
—The Courtyard
“Jerry Fisk said it
2:00 p.m. Ask Pete Hamilton About Randall Knives—Pete Hamilton, Past
Randall Shop Foreman, Room 110
may be the
2:30 p.m. Knives of Operation Iraqi Freedom—MSG Kim Breed, Room 108
3:30 p.m. Chain-Mail Cutting & Choreographed Sword Fighting—
best-ever board-of-
Hank Reinhardt & Eddie Floyd, The Courtyard
4:00 p.m. ABS Cutting Demonstration—Bill Moran, Room 103
directors knife.”
Sunday, June 15
—the author
8:00 a.m. Worship Service—The Rev. W.D. Pease, Room 103
9:00 a.m. 30-Minute Yoga Intro For Deep Relaxation & Stress Reduction
—Jot Singh Khalsa, Room 107
10:00 a.m. How To Forge Knives—Bill Moran & Jay Hendrickson on the Ken •An intriguing selection of door prizes,
Mankel Mobile Forge, The Courtyard including the f inest in handmade and
10:30 a.m. Hazardous Substances In The Knifemaker’s Shop—Mike Crenshaw, factory knives, postcards of the new
Room 109 Morrell book, The Protector, signed by
11:30 a.m. Japanese Sword-Cutting Demo—James Williams, The Courtyard both Morrell and Emerson, and much,
12 p.m. Using The Internet To Buy/Sell Your Knives—Henry Okleshen, much more!
Room 109
1 p.m. Knife-Throwing Competition—John Bailey, The Courtyard Biggest, Best Yet
The BLADE Show is the world’s most
comprehensive assemblage of sharp—
factory, handmade, military, antique and
exotic knives and swords, and the makers,
sellers and buyers of same—all under one
Among the new factory knives to look for at roof, plus knife accessories, knifemaking
the BLADE Show will be the Buck/Mayo TNT supplies and equipment, steel and handle
frame-lock folder. Designed by Tom Mayo materials, knife publications, purveyors,
(inset), the piece sports a CPM S30V stain- Internet knife retailers, knife photogra-
less steel blade and a titanium handle. phers and much more. It attracts the top
Closed length: 4 1/8 inches. MSRP: $296. names from all sectors of the cutlery
industry, both national and international,
and the 22nd annual version promises to
be the biggest and best BLADE Show yet.
The latest in knives (for some of them,
see the special story this issue) are always
a highlight of any BLADE Show, and the
people and events round out what is the
most satisfying three days in knifedom.
The BLADE Show isn’t just the world’s
biggest knife show, it’s the world’s most
important annual cutlery event, period!
Among the highlights will be:
•The annual competition for the Blade
Magazine Knife-Of-The-Year Awards®,

30 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

925937_BL.qxd 3/7/03 5:58 PM Page 1

© 2003 Gerber Legendary Blades, a Fiskars Brands Company

GERBER © EMERSON ALLIANCE ™ IT’S OUR FIRST

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bladeshowpreview.qxd 5/9/03 11:51 AM Page 32

BLADE show
BLADE show
the factory knife industry’s most coveted
honors;
•The f inest in handmade knives,
including those of the ABS, a special
Knifemakers’ Guild section and the best of
other affiliated and non-affiliated makers;
•The annual meeting of the ABS,
where the society holds tests for its ratings
of journeyman and master smith,
announces its annual awards, elects new
officers, and much more;

KNIFE/SWORD BLADE STEELS David Morrell, author of the Rambo

N ew Expanded Stocks For Blade Needs books and the new novel, The
Protector, featuring the Emerson
CQC-7B on the cover, along with Gil
• Stainless – ATS34 – 440C –154CM–BG42–303–304– 410– 416– 420 Hibben, maker of one of the Rambo
movie knives, will join forces to give
• Alloy – S30V – S60V – S90V – A203E – 5160 – 52100 (round / flat) a seminar entitled “Rambo & Me.”
• High Carbon – 1050 – 1075 – 1080 – 1084 – 1095 Morrell also will be selling and auto-
graphing copies of his new book at
• Low Carbon – 1008 – 1010 – 1020 the booth of Emerson Knives, Inc.
• Tool Steels – L6 – I5N20 – O1 – A2 – D2 (precision ground)
• 6AL/4V Titanium – Nickel 201 •Row after row of some of the finest
• Damascus – Admiral Hi Quality – Random / Twist Patterns knife collections anywhere, including
displays by the Buck Collectors Club; the
Randall Knife Society; antique bowies of
All bar sizes & full sheets in stock – Small quantities welcome the Antique Bowie Knife Association;
Quality Steels Quality Service Quality Value military knives from the American Mili-
tary Edged Weaponry Museum; the inter-
national blades of Eiler Cook; the
Custom Knife/Sword Blades handmade knife displays of Duncan
Rutherford and Johnny Perry; and the
Lasers Cut to your specifications. antique knives of Floyd Ritter, Jim and
Cindy Taylor, Tony Foster, Bruce Voyles,
4152 West 123rd Street
Send drawings for fast quotes. Alsip, Illinois 60803-1869
Bill Adams and many others;
•Such leading purveyors and dealers as
800-323-7055 • Fax: 708-388-9317 Paul Basch, Bob Neal, Les Robertson,
Call or write for free catalog.
www.admiralsteel.com Jer ry Schroeder, Tom Clinton, J.W.
e-mail: [email protected] Denton, Roy Fazalare, Jack Feder, Hank
Online ordering – See web site. Rummell, Gary Shaw, Rhett and Janie

32 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

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BLADE show
BLADE show
GATCO/Timberline will unveil the
Timberline/Lightfoot Pistol Grip Tacti-
cal at the BLADE Show. Designed by
Greg Lightfoot, the ergonomic
folder features a 3.2-inch
blade of AUS-8 stainless
steel and a Zytel handle.
MSRP: $80. Lightfoot
also will have a
table at the show.

BLADE Show Awards—NEW CATEGORIES!

he BLADE Show is the site of the recognizing knifemakers who have the
T The Blade Magazine 2003 Knife-
Of-The-Year Awards®, the factory
best award-winning performance in one
or more categories at participating knife
industry’s most coveted knife honors. shows over a one-year period. The
It’s also the site of the show’s custom BLADEhandmade Awards will be
knife awards. Both categories will have presented at the BLADE Show West
additions this year—one new Knife Of Sept. 19-21 in Ontario, California.
The Year and two new custom awards. New for this year are the categories
Chris Reeve of Chris Reeve Knives of Best Sword and Best of the Rest. Best
mentioned that one way to grow the Sword is self-explanatory. Best of the
BLADE Show would be to attract Rest includes such pieces as ulus, cigar
kitchen knife manufacturers. To help cutters, butterfly knives, tomahawks,
draw the household cutlery crowd—as etc., that don’t fit in any of the existing
ATS-34
well as recognize the largest knife cate- categories. To make room for the new
BOS gory in the world—the BLADE Show awards, the Best Miniature Fixed Blade,
has instituted the Blade Magazine Best Miniature Folder and Best Overall
888 Strider Solution Kitchen Knife Of The Year®. Miniature awards have been consoli-
The Blade Magazine Knife-Of-The- dated into the new Yvon Vachon Best
Year Awards are: Overall; Most Innova- Miniature Knife Award.
tive American; Manufacturing Quality; The comprehensive lineup of awards
American-Made; Most Innovative includes (those with asterisks are
Imported; Best Buy; Imported; BLADEhandmade categories): Hugh
Investor/Collector; Knife Collaboration; Bartrug Best In Show*; Best Handmade
Failure is not an option. That's the
idea behind the Buck/Strider collab- Kitchen; Accessory; Industry Achieve- Art*; Best Fantasy*; Best Fixed Blade*;
oration. Finely tuned design details, ment; and Publisher’s. Best Non-Damascus Handforged*; Best
high-end steels and G10 handles
assure that no matter how tough a While the factories go toe-to-toe, Utility Hunter*; Best Damascus
situation you find yourself heading
into, a Buck/Strider Tactical knife is knifemakers will compete for the show’s Design*; Best Fighter*; Best Folder*;
tough enough to get you out. custom knife awards. Augmenting the Yvon Vachon Best Miniature*; Best
significance of winning a BLADE Show Knife Collaboration; Best Handle
custom knife honor is that selected cate- Design; Most Innovative Design; Best
gories at the show count toward the Sword; Best of the Rest; and Best New
prestigious BLADEhandmade™ Maker.
Awards. The latter are the only honors
1.800.326.2825 www.buckknives.com

34 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

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Among the cutlers of The Knifemak-

ers’ Guild exhibiting their wares at
the BLADE Show will be Steve Jerni-
gan, maker of this ribbed wonder in
stainless steel damascus and black-
lip mother-of-pearl. Closed length: FOR
~4 inches. (PointSeven photo) 2003
SOGTWI-7
Blade . . . . 1.9”
S.A.T.
SOG Assisted Overall . . . . . . . . 4.75”
Technology
Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 oz
Steel . . . . . AUS 8 Stainless, Rc 57-58
Handle . . . . . .6061-T6 machined aluminum

SOGTWI-8
S.A.T. Blade . . . . . . . 2.7”
SOG Assisted
Technology Overall . . . . . . . . . . 6.2”
Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 oz
Steel . . . . . AUS 8 Stainless, Rc 57-58
Handle . . . . . .6061-T6 machined aluminum

Johan Gustaffson will be

among a large contingent
of leading Swedish S.A.T.
SOGCTFSA-98
makers displaying at the
SOG Assisted Blade . . . . . . . . 3.5”
Technology
show. His mosaic piece Overall . . . . . . . . . . . 8”
boasts a mother-of- Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 oz
pearl handle and gold Steel . . . . . AUS 8 Stainless, Rc 57-58
and diamond insets. Handle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Camo Zytel
Closed length: ~4 3/4
inches. (PointSeven
photo)

from selected BLADE Show exhibitors

(see the BLADE Show office at the show
for more information); SOGSTRT71
Blade . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.75”
Overall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8.37”
Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 oz
Steel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ATS-34, Rc 58-60
“As Bill Moran Handle . . . .Zytel (with dual stainless steel lin-
ers)
put it, the knife
‘sure is a wicked-
looking thing.’”
SOGREV-7
—the author Blade . . . . . . . . . . . 4.75”
Overall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10”
Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 oz
Steel . . . . . AUS 8 Stainless Steel Rc 57-58
Handle . . . . . . . . . . . Glass-Reinforced Zytel
•The announcement of the latest
inductee into The Blade Magazine Cutlery
Hall Of Fame®;
•The world’s top embellishers, includ-
ing engravers, scrimshanders, carvers and
etchers, and a whole lot more. 5625 Copley Dr.,San Diego, CA 92111
Ph: (800) 367-5900 or (858) 715-2500
Sharp School Is In Fax: (800) 367-5903 or (858) 715-2525
The BLADE Show seminars address Email: [email protected]
subjects both traditional and contemporary, w w w. M o t e n g . c o m
from the forging demonstration by Bill Dealers Only Please !
AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 35
bladeshowpreview.qxd 5/9/03 11:54 AM Page 36

One of the ABS master smith pieces—the other is a folder by Tim

BLADE show
BLADE show
Hancock—that will be sold during the show’s ABS auction is Don
Fogg’s Dha-Chi sword. The handforged 1095 blade is 26 inches long
and 1.5 inches wide. The hamon is set off by a working polish and
the handle sports a copper habaki, gold-plated seppa and custom
damascus tsuba in carved relief. The handle is Laotian flamewood
with a custom fushi kashira. (PointSeven photo)

Hendrickson have done it at the show—to Don’t Miss Out!

such late-breaking news as the blades of As the BLADE Show grows in importance
Operation Iraqi Freedom, as discussed by as the annual international rendezvous of
“A landmark retired 5th Special Forces Master Sgt. Kim
Breed. (For a complete list of the what’s,
the knife, blade brethren from everywhere
will once again renew acquaintances in
exhibit of seven when’s and where’s of the seminars, see the Atlanta.
accompanying schedule.) Will this be the year you join the
knives in memory On Friday at 11:30 a.m., the annual world’s sharpest family?
ABS Knife Auction will be held. As noted,
of the 9-11/World highlighting the auction is the ABS board- For more show-specific information, see
Trade Center of-directors knife. Other pieces to be
auctioned will include the annual ABS
the subscriber version of this issue of
BLADE®, which contains the official
tragedy will be master smith knives, forged this year by
Don Fogg (a Japanese sword) and Tim
2003 BLADE Show program that also will
be distributed at the show.
showcased.” Hancock (a gold-inlaid folder), and the
annual ABS journeyman smith knife, with For the contact information for the knives
—the author Terry Vandeventer doing the honors on his illustrated in the story, see “Where To Get
American bowie. Other blades also will be ’Em” on page 114.
auctioned, including a Southwestern-style
Moran and Jay Hendrickson on Ken bowie by John Fitch on behalf of The
Mankel’s mobile forge—this marks the Order Of The Mystic Brotherhood
17th consecutive year Moran and (TOMB).

36 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

BLJUL03 4/10/03 3:43 AM Page 5

-BL
whycarry.qxd 5/9/03 8:10 PM Page 38

the knife users

the knife users

By James Ayres

Kory Breitenbucher is a computer tech

who uses his Gerber Ridge folder to
open boxes and even to remove the
screws from computer cases. Kory says
he doesn’t always have a screwdriver
available and that the tanto tip of the
Ridge blade won’t break on the small
screws of a computer. (Justin Ayres
photo of Kory)

38 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

whycarry.qxd 5/9/03 8:40 PM Page 39

W
hy do you carry a knife? If you
are a regular reader of BLADE®,
the answer to this question could
consume an evening’s conversation. To
those of us who like and enjoy knives—the
“brotherhood of the blade,” if you will—
the more appropriate question is Why
wouldn’t you carry a knife?
To people who are not aficionados of
steel, the answer to the first question is not
so obvious. They don’t know why some of
us knife enthusiasts carry knives. Most of
us have been asked why we carry knives.
Sometimes the question catches us off
guard, resulting in a deer-in-the-headlights
look and a stammering reply. We are
regarded with suspicion, even hostility by
those who define all knives as weapons.
How should we respond to this question?
How do others respond?

A Time Not to Answer

'DIAMOND SHARPENERS'
Why You Carry a Knife
"For years you were told you needed the holes."
ince police off icers, customs
S agents or security guards ask
people why they carry knives, and Sharpens Quickly
because they often persist in defining
knives as weapons, the author also
Stays Flat
spoke with Evan Nappen, a lawyer Use on anything
who specializes in weapons law and Available in up to 5 different grits
writes occasional articles on the
subject for BLADE. He asked Evan
the best way to respond to someone in
a position of authority when asked
Why do you carry a knife?
“Do not answer the question,”
"Our Competitors have finally seen the light."
Evan said. “Consider the context. If
you are being asked the question by a
police officer, then the person asking
"Isn't it time that you did too?"
the question knows you have a knife,
which may mean you have been
searched, and he or she is trying to
decide whether you can or should be
charged with a crime. Nothing you
can say will help. Anything you say
can, and will, be held against you.
Therefore, it’s better not to answer any
questions. No authority can override
your Fifth Amendment rights.
“Further, it’s quite possible that
your words will be misunderstood or
twisted,” he added. “If a federal offi-
cer thinks you have lied to him, he Flat stones available in sizes ranging from 3/4"x2" to 8"x8"
can charge you with a crime. It is a
crime to lie to a federal officer. There- For Entire Product Line Go To www.eze-lap.com
fore, don’t lie. Don’t explain. If you
are charged, call your lawyer.”
3572 Arrowhead Drive
To find out, I emailed and talked to Carson City, NV 89706
friends and strangers. I especially wanted Phone: 1-800-843-4815
to hear from those who are not in the knife Fax: 775-888-9555
community. I talked to a television
producer, a landscape gardener, a computer MADE IN USA
technician, a girl behind the counter at the

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 39

whycarry.qxd 5/9/03 8:10 PM Page 40

corner store, people I encountered in my

the knife users daily life. Often, I first had to ask if they
the knife users carried knives before I could ask them why
Though it’s probably not the use they did so.
Spyderco originally intended in design- Tom Negrino, an author of many
ing the Military folder, landscape
gardener Mike Hernandez uses
computer books, such as Microsoft Office
the knife for trimming shrubs. for Dummies, turns out to be a long-time
“The serrations never get knife user.
dull, and it cuts through
branches easily,” he
noted, as he deftly
cut a rose for his
“I use the Al Mar
wife. (Justin
Ayres rose-
folder all the time
cutting photo)
to cut labels, tags
and stray threads.”
—Mary Lou, owner
of a children’s
clothing store
“I’ve carried a knife for years,” he said.
“I bought an Al Mar Eagle Ultralight with
a Talon blade when I saw it in a store. I
thought it was a great example of modern
design and carried it with me everywhere
for a year or so. But the ‘freak-out factor’
was too high in my work environment.
Every time I took it out to open a box,
people would gasp as if it was the Sword

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40 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

whycarry.qxd 5/12/03 7:20 AM Page 41

For the past three or four years, one

of the author’s daily carry knives has
been a Chris Reeve Mountaineer. He
has toted it since using the knife to
pry open a door when he got stuck in
an archaeological dig after everyone
else left, locking him inside!

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 41

whycarry.qxd 5/12/03 3:57 PM Page 42

the knife users

the knife users

United States
Distributor
of Espadas de Toledo

Under New Ownership

Shane Matherne Enterprise, Inc.
dba Toledo Swords USA
423 Oak Lane (Mailing Address)
Luling, LA 70070

Tom Negrino, an author of many computer books, such as

Microsoft Office for Dummies, has carried a knife for years.
“I bought an Al Mar Eagle Ultralight with a Talon blade when
I saw it in a store,” he said. “I thought it was a great example
of modern design and carried it with me everywhere for a
First year or so. But the ‘freak-out factor’ was too high in my work
environment. Every time I took it out to open a box, people
United States would gasp as if it was the Sword of Conan.”

Showroom.
Located in the Historic District,
(45 minutes from downtown
New Orleans, LA). New corpo-
rate office and distribution
center.
of Conan. ming shrubs. The serrations never get dull,
Over 700 items to choose from, “By then, I was used to the convenience and it cuts through branches easily,” he
imported directly from Toledo, of having a knife in my pocket,” Negrino noted. Mike deftly cut a rose for his wife
Spain, including swords, continued, “so I got a little Spyderco Delica. with a Spyderco Military. I don’t think the
medieval items, daggers, No one seems to notice it when I use it in folks at Spyderco had this use in mind
armor, helmets, displays, exec- the off ice. I broke the tip using it as a when they designed the tactical folder, but
utive gifts, & much more. New screwdriver, but I still carry it because it’s it worked just fine.
items being added regularly. so useful. As we are talking, I have realized
offering retail sales, wholesale that there is another reason why I carry it.”
and affiliate programs with Tom grinned and said, “I carry a knife
because man is a tool user, and its presence
“I carry a knife
drop shipping available.
reminds me that I’m human.” because man is
Mike Hernandez is a landscape
Web Sites: gardener and the father of a mob of happy, a tool user, and
laughing kids. “Why wouldn’t I carry a
www.ToledoSwords.com knife?” he asked in reply to my query. “I its presence
www.ToledoSwordsUSA.com wouldn’t know how to get through the day reminds me that
without one. I use my Swiss Army Knife
www.SpanishSteel.com for everything from fixing my kids’ toys to I’m human.”
taking apart a heater, or whatever else
Phone: 800.505.8646
needs fixing.” —Tom Negrino
Fax: 801.751.4021 Shrub-Trimming Spyderco
As we talked, we walked around his flow- Mary Lou owns a children’s clothing
ering yard. “I like this Spyderco for trim- company and carries a small Al Mar in

42 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

whycarry.qxd 5/7/03 9:54 PM Page 43

one pocket or another every day. “My dad some folder to slice some pâté and
always had a little pocketknife, and Camembert. I guess that’s how they end
maybe that’s why I car r y one,” she the workday in Tinseltown.
remarked. “I use it all the time to cut “You’ve got to have the right knife for
labels, tags and stray threads. At home, I an office picnic,” Alan said. “A friend gave
often use it in the kitchen instead of a me this and it’s already my favorite. It
paring knife. It’s always sharp and handy, looks delicate, but it’s tough. I like the
and I like the feel of it. I think of it as a engraving and the wood. I open mail and
small work of art. It’s jewelry as much as so forth with it, but mainly I just like the
my bracelet or necklace.” idea of having a bit of French art with me.”
I posed the knife-carry question to an Kory Breitenbucher is a computer tech.
old friend, John, who served in the U.S. I asked him why he carries a knife when I
Army Special Forces and as a contract noticed he was opening the case of my new
agent for a U.S. intelligence agency. “I’ve Toshiba with a Gerber Ridge folder. He
carried a knife since I was 5 years old. I gave me one of those looks teenagers
wouldn’t feel dressed without one,” he reserve for parents and other adults.
replied. John showed me his everyday “Well, obviously I use it to unscrew
carry knife. computer cases,” he remarked.
“I got this knife back in the ’70s, and I “Why not use a screwdriver?” I asked.
soon learned the little boot knife [an old “I don’t always have one handy,” Kory
Benchmark Ninja] was a good all-around replied. “Besides, this square tip [the
utility knife. I’ve done about everything Gerber Ridge has a tanto-style blade]
with it that you can do with a knife. When won’t break on screws.”
I first got it, it had an overly complicated We talked a little more and, after some
sheath. So I gave it to a cobbler in probing, he admitted that he had other
Guatemala, along with an old Bianchi reasons for carrying a knife.
IWB holster. He cut the clip off the holster
and nailed it to the sheath. That was over Fighting the Forces of Evil
20 years ago, and it’s still my favorite “The ‘cool factor’ is way higher with this
knife.” knife than with any screwdriver,” Kory
said. “I’m into computer games. I like to
imagine that this is my sword and I’m
fighting the forces of evil. I know I’m just
a computer geek, but everyone’s got to
“The ‘cool factor’ is have some fun.”
There it is, a wide sampling of people
way higher with who carry knives. None of them are collec-
tors or serious knife enthusiasts, but regu-
this knife than with lar folks who carry knives every day. They
do so because their knives are objects of
any screwdriver.” beauty to them, or because their fathers
carried knives. They use them to fix their
—Kory kids’ toys, and why not? Why should any
of us have to justify the possession of a
Breitenbucher simple tool?
For the past three or four years, my
daily carry knife has been a standard Chris
Reeve Sebenza or Mountaineer, depending
Kim, the cashier at the corner store in on where I am. The little Mountaineer is
my neighborhood, dangled her key chain hardly noticeable, and I have carried it
with a Spyderco Dragonfly clipped to it. since the time I used it to pry open a door
“For sure, I always have my little knife,” when I got stuck in an archaeological dig
she said. “My dad gave it to me. I don’t after everyone left, locking me inside!
use it much, only to open boxes, I guess. I I carry a knife for many of the same
just like it. It’s cool, and it’s really cool that reasons as the people I talked with do. I
my dad gave it to me.” like the graceful lines of a well-designed
Alan Baker is a television producer knife. I fix kids’ toys, cut flowers and slice
who works long hours in order to enjoy the tomatoes. My grandfather gave me my
good life. Alan said he has carried a knife first knife, and I’ve never been without one
since he was 8 years old growing up in the since. Like Kory, I have a little fantasy in
San Fernando Valley. “My first knife was a my heart. I like to think that the knight’s
Scout knife,” he noted. “I’m not a collec- tradition of the sword upholding the right
tor, but I have quite a few knives and I is embodied in the tiny sliver of steel in my
always carry one of them.” pocket.
Alan showed me his current favorite, a Why do you carry a knife?
French folder from Forge de Laguiole. He
used its corkscrew to pop the cork from a
bottle of Bordeaux and employed the hand-

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 43

scagel.qxd 5/7/03 10:30 PM Page 44

knife treasure-trove
knife treasure-trove

“Phenomenal” is the way one William Scagel knife

authority terms a recent cutlery discovery
By B. R. Hughes

According to the author, a sextet of original William Scagel knives

represents one of the most astounding cutlery discoveries of the
past century. Knife collector Buddy Thomason uncovered the rare
collection through a chance telephone conversation with a woman
who had no idea of its worth. Though William Scagel authority Dr.
James Lucie indicates he feels uncomfortable placing a value on
the knives, he suggests that any one piece in the group should be
worth at least $18,000.

44 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

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hen Buddy Thomason installed

W knife images as a screen-saver on

his office computer last year, the
collector and enthusiast of everything
sharp had no idea it would lead to one of
the most important cutlery finds of the
past decade—and of his life!
A visitor to Thomason’s place of busi-
ness in Colorado saw the knife images on
Buddy’s computer screen and asked if he
collected similar pieces. Buddy confirmed
that he did and, not long after, he received
a phone call from a lady who said, “I’ve
heard that you know something about
knives. Well, I have a collection, and I'd
like you to look at it.” Buddy visited the
caller’s home, where he found three bags
containing a number of knives. The owner
suggested that Buddy take them with him
if he were interested, study them and make
her an offer. Along with the bags, he also
took a leather case that reportedly held
more knives.
Welcome to the 34th International
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BLADE Show!
KNIFEMAKERS
P erhaps the best news for knife
enthusiasts and collectors is that
Buddy Thomason, owner of the newly
GUILD SHOW July 11, 12, 13, 2003
uncovered treasure-trove of William Marriott’s Orlando World Center, Canary Royal Ballroom — I-4. Exit 26A
Scagel knives, has granted permission
for Dr. James Lucie to exhibit the set, HUNTING • BOWIES • FOLDING
along with Lucie’s own Scagel collec- S P O R T I N G • M I N I AT U R E S • A R T • S W O R D S
tion, at the 2003 BLADE Show. See
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Not long afterward, he opened the For special Guild hotel reservations please call the following numbers.
well-made case and extracted a knife. Marriott Orlando World Center: 1-800-621-0638.
Buddy actually gasped as he made out the Outside the USA: 1-800-228-9290.
blade stamp: “W. Scagel Handmade.” “I
For more information contact: 1 Day Pass $5
had read enough knife journals,” Thoma-
The Knifemakers Guild 3 Day Pass $10
son explained, “to realize what I had. That 13950 N.E. 20th Street, FREE Parking
case contained six Scagel knives in mint Williston, FL 32696 Hours: Fri. 10am - 6pm
condition. Even though I knew little about 352-528-6124 Sat. 10am - 6pm
the maker, I did know that I was looking at or Fax 352-528-6124 Sun. 10am - 4pm
a veritable treasure!”
Buddy had previously made the Photos by Point Seven
acquaintance of R.D. Nolen, a veteran
knifemaker who lives in Estes Park,
Colorado, so Thomason called R.D. and
made arrangements to show him the set of
Maker: Bob Dozier
knives. Upon inspection, Nolen told Buddy
that he had something far removed from
the ordinary, but he confessed that he did Maker: Daniel Cannady
not know enough concerning Scagel
knives to tell him much about them. At that
point, R.D. called me. Maker: Joe Hytovick
In the past, I have had the pleasure of
hunting mule deer on several occasions
with R.D., and we have formed a warm
friendship. When he told me what was
involved, I urged him to call Dr. James Maker: Mike Yurco
Lucie, who is the ranking Scagel author-
ity today. When Dr. Lucie learned of the FREE ADMISSION WHEN YOU BRING THIS ADVERTISEMENT!

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 45

scagel.qxd 5/12/03 1:14 PM Page 46

knife treasure-trove
knife treasure-trove

A closeup of one of the blades in the rare collec-

tion of authentic William Scagel knives reveals
“W. Scagel Handmade,” accompanied by Scagel’s
signature kris-like knife stamp. The reverse side
of the blade bears the stamp “VL&A Chicago,”
which represents Von Lengerke & Antoine, a
Chicago firm owned by Abercrombie & Fitch.

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Knife and sheath priced at $299. email [email protected]

46 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

scagel.qxd 5/7/03 10:32 PM Page 47

find, he was, by his own admission, liter-

ally stunned. Soon, Lucie arranged a trip
to Colorado to examine the set, and after
spending considerable time inspecting the
knives and the case, he exclaimed, “It is
beyond my comprehension to even imag-
ine a set such as this [exists]!” He further
classified the discovery as “phenomenal!”

“It is beyond my
comprehension to
even imagine a
knife set such as
this exists!”
—Dr. James Lucie

At this stage of the story, a description

of the case and its contents seems in
order. The exterior of the leather case is in
excellent condition, with all stitching,
brass fittings, handle, buckles and straps
intact, without any signs of loosening or
cracking. Everything indicates that the
case was custom made to accommodate
the six knives it contains. It is marked
with the Abercrombie & Fitch stamp.

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AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 47

scagel.qxd 5/7/03 10:32 PM Page 48

knife treasure-trove
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Oosic inspects a set of mint-condition,
Precision Cutting/Quality
Ancient Mammoth Bone original Scagel pieces, found as a
Material
Black Lip Pearl Dealer Inquiries Welcome collection in an apparently-custom-
Ancient Stellar Sea Cow made leather carrying case.

There are a few scuff marks, and the brass

fittings show some patina. The interior
leather is soft and textured.
The blades of the six knives range from
7 1/2 to 7 3/4 inches, with overall knife
lengths between 12 1/2 and 13 1/2 inches.
The thickness of each blade is approxi-
mately 1/4 inch at the guard. Dr. Lucie
comments, “Their size takes them out of
the hunter category and is slightly less than
that of a typical Scagel camp knife. I
choose to term them ‘utility knives.’ The
blades are forged and are in the traditional
Scagel style. The reverse sides of the blades
are marked ‘VL&A Chicago,’ which repre-
sents Von Lengerke & Antoine, a Chicago
f irm owned by Abercrombie & Fitch
[A&E].”

No Two Knives Exactly Alike

The handles comprise three different
styles, all frequently employed by Scagel.
Two are stag handles; two are stacked-
leather-washer grips and forked-antler-tine
buttcaps; and the other two are stacked-
leather-washer handles with crown-stag
buttcaps. Dr. Lucie told me that these were
Scagel’s three favorite handle styles. No
two are identical. Indeed, it has been said
that, of the thousands of knives made by
Scagel, who died in 1963, no two were
exactly alike.
Pinpointing when the set was produced
is a difficult, if not impossible, task, but it

48 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

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has been determined that the knives in it

were made in 1929 or earlier. For a
number of years, Scagel sold knives
through A&F and VL&A, but in 1929,
with the Great Depression in full swing, a
representative of A&E suggested to
Scagel that he lower his prices to encour-
age sales. This so infuriated the artist that
he demanded the return of all of his
knives then in the stores’ inventories. He
never did business with the company
again!
It is interesting to note that, during
World War II, Scagel made a few knives
bearing the VL&A stamp for GIs. Yet, Dr.
Lucie explained, “Knowing how frugal
the old man was, he probably had some
blades that had been previously stamped
lying around the shop, and he simply went
ahead and finished them.” No one seems
to know exactly when Scagel began doing
business with A&F and VL&A, or when
he began dealing with the companies Von
Lengerke and Detmold (AL&D), of
Detroit, and Pacific Arms (PA), of San
Francisco. The earliest A&F catalog in Dr.
Lucie’s extensive collection is dated 1921,
and the firm was selling Scagel knives at
that time.

“Of the thousands

of knives made by
Scagel, no two were
exactly alike.”
—the author

The original owner of the knives in the

set, C.G. Dom, an avid outdoorsman who
made his fortune during the early years of
the 20th century in an oil-related business,
died in 1936. Did he have the set made up
as a custom order? Since the knives
possess no sheaths, it seems obvious that
they were meant to be carried in the leather
case, suggesting that there was no intention
for the pieces to be separated from each
other for any period of time.
Dr. Lucie’s best guess is that they
represent a salesman’s sample case. “I
know that both A&F and AL&A had men
on the road selling their wares, which
featured all types of sporting goods,” he
observed. It seems unusual that a sales-
man’s sample case would contain six
knives with the same basic blade pattern,
as well as duplicates of three handle styles,
but, at this time, no one has a better expla-
nation. Perhaps we’ll never know. We can,
however, speculate, and this is part of the
fun of knife collecting!
Dr. Lucie commented, “I had never
seen anything like this before, but this set
is 100 percent authentic.”

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 49

scagel.qxd 5/7/03 9:11 AM Page 50

knife treasure-trove
knife treasure-trove

One in a treasure-trove set of six

William Scagel knives, this piece
parades a stag handle and a 7
1/2-inch blade, the latter being
similar in length and style to the
other five pieces.

50 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

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Technology with an Edge

The pair of knives is part of a one-
of-a-kind set of original William
Scagel pieces, these two featuring The Technology.. Kershaw’s Ken Onion Chive & Scallion
stacked-leather-washer handles
and forked-antler-tine end caps.
The Edge.................
• Speed-Safe assisted-opening mechanism
• Ambidextrous Index-Finger opening
• Sized right for easy carrying
• Kershaw’s “shaving-sharp” edge
• Lifetime guarantee

Model 1600
MSRP $49.95

Blade.....1 15/16 in. (4.9cm.)

Steel......420HC stainless
Handle..410 stainless
Lock ......Frame
Closed...2 7/8 in. (7.3cm.)
Weight ..1.9 oz.

A natural question, obviously, is What almost always defer to those I consider the
is the set worth? When I posed the obvious nation’s top two, most ethical purveyors—
to Dr. Lucie, he replied, “The only advice I Gordon White and Paul Basch. I am a
feel comfortable offering is to actually collector, not a purveyor, and I also make
consider the present-day value of large, Scagel-style knives. But I did tell Buddy
mint A&F- and VL&A-marked Scagels. I that any one of the six knives would

Model 1620
MSRP $49.95

Model 1620ST
partially serrated
(not shown)
MSRP $49.95

Blade........2 1/4 in. (5.8cm.)

Steel.........420HC stainless
Handle.....Polyamide
Lock .........Locking liner
Closed......3 1/4 in. (8.4cm.)
Weight .....2.3 oz.

When Buddy Thomason opened a newly acquired

leather case, reportedly containing knives, six
original William Scagel pieces were revealed, each
For information or a dealer near you, call:
nestling into its own individual compartment. The
case and knives are in remarkably good condition. 1-800-325-2891
www.kershawknives.com
AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 51
scagel.qxd 5/12/03 5:00 PM Page 52

Three of William Scagel’s signature knife-handle styles

knife treasure-trove are represented in the set of six authentic Scagel knives.
knife treasure-trove Scagel knife authority Dr. James Lucie suggests the set,
complete with a leather carrying case, could have been
an Abercrombie & Fitch salesman’s sample. Do other
such sets exist, and where are they?

retail—not wholesale—for approximately worth, Buddy could have obtained them the set, much less any single knife from the
$18,000. I believe the case adds a certain for a fraction of their true value, but the leather case. As R.D. Nolen told him, “You
flavor and a percentage to the sum.” new owner told me that he would have had can have a lot of fun with these. Show ’em
Thomason subsequently purchased the a great deal of trouble sleeping under those around and let people see them. Just don’t
set for what Dr. Lucie termed “a quite circumstances, which I don’t doubt for a forget the part about havin’ fun!”
honorable figure.” Obviously, since the moment!
previous owner knew nothing of their Thomason has no intention of selling

Available At
Blade Show
Table #20B

4” Stainless
Damasteel Blade

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52 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

knifetalk.qxd 5/12/03 1:52 PM Page 53

knife talk
knife talk

Did Early American

Blacksmiths Make
Knives?

By Ed Fowler
BLADE® field editor
In the conclusion, the author
olks generally known as pioneers led
speculates on how frontier
F the way into the vast unknown that
would become America, and “civi-
lization” followed. The pioneers sought the
blacksmiths lived and on the
unknown or wished to escape from civi-
lization; when they found a place they
roles of the knives they made
liked, they settled down. Houses were built
and communities born. A new community
remote from the comforts of civilization more civilized communities. crops planted, cultivated and harvested.
easily could have consisted of several Most generally, frontier communities The busy time ran from first thaw until
homes, a small fort for defense and a depended on either harvesting what nature winter began. In a small community the
blacksmith shop. provided or growing their own, though blacksmith probably also had his own agri-
The greater the distance from civiliza- usually it was a combination of both. cultural interests to look after, if only a
tion, the more basic would have been the Summers were typically busy times for all small garden and milk cow. As the econ-
demands on the blacksmith’s talents. I inhabitants, from children to adults. Fields omy of the community expanded, the
don’t mean to imply that the blacksmith needed to be cleared, homes built, and blacksmith would have been able to
would have lacked skill—talents varied
with the individual—but, to be successful,
his ability needed to match the needs of his
community. Many times basic skills are the Though it’s missing some bits, this charming old dagger (above) exhibits an excep-
tional forged integral guard. The quillon tips are neatly shaped into miniature
most demanding, requiring knowledge and hearts. While the dagger is 9 1/4 inches long overall now, the blade originally was
technique unknown among such specialists some 6 inches long. The bone bird’s-head grip is a nice early design touch. (photo
as machinists, mechanics or blacksmiths in courtesy Gordon Minnis)

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 53

knifetalk.qxd 5/12/03 3:00 PM Page 54

INSURANCE
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knife talk
knife talk
Your homeowners insurance is rarely
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• Sample insurance rates for knife & edged weap- best cutting tool would have been in high
ons collectors: $3,000 for $13 per year, $10,000 for
$43, $25,000 for $108, $50,000 for $215, $75,000 for demand.”
$323, $100,000 for $430, $2.15 per $1,000 above
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—the author
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• Replacement value. We use experts/profession- one’s talents expanded in an area, his craft otherwise remain unrecorded.
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became the most efficient venue in which What today are prized antiques were at
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• See our website (or contact us) for full informa- profession encourages skill, skill promotes to blossom. Examples of frontier art are
tion, including standard exclusions. a quality product, and a market for the seen in the fine books on woodcarving,
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primitive conditions. Women would have winter lost its grip. One essential tool
exhausted any gossip and the men had known to all on any frontier is the knife.
nowhere to go. For many, this became a The farmer and the hunter both relied
time to pursue their special talents. Women on the knife to harvest and nurture prod-
sewed, spun wool, raised kids and kept the ucts for food and clothing. The man who
sought a livelihood in agriculture needed
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9” Discs 25 Species of Wood Blades tion from one cutting tool to another. The
9x11 Sheets skills of blacksmithing and bladesmithing
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Belt Grinders Exotic Skins tended to be of standard design. The knife,
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54 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

knifetalk.qxd 5/12/03 1:53 PM Page 55

however, would have provided exceptional

opportunities for creativity should the
blacksmith have been so inclined.

Archaeological Clues
The preceding examples mentioned herein
are all essentially aspects of human behav-
ior and creativity nurtured by time and
place. Another clue to the blacksmithing
trade comes from folks who make a living
digging in the garbage dumps of the fron-
tier.
I’ve read archaeological reports
concerning the exploration of the early
forts of the fur trade. At Bent’s Fort near
La Junta, Colorado, for example, many
artifacts have been unearthed, including
buttons, buckles, broken dishes, watches
and low-carbon gun parts. Obviously lack-
ing from these inventories are any broken
knives or other tools of high-carbon steel.
This seems rather strange when a knife
would have been the most common tool.

“One essential
tool known to all
on any frontier is
the knife.”
—the author
I strongly believe that any high-carbon
steel would have been in great demand, too
precious to throw away. Broken knives and
other high-carbon steel items such as files
and rasps easily could have been forged
into tools, some of which undoubtedly
were knives. Making a serviceable knife
would have been absolute simplicity for
the accomplished blacksmith of the time
and place. If the smith was motivated,
some of the knives could have been of
exceptional quality.
I believe the frontier knifemaker was
any individual blacksmith who sought to
develop and use his talents to their fullest
degree, and found the same fascination all
cutlery enthusiasts share in the knife.
Many early frontier blades sit forgotten in
dusty drawers or in thrift and antique
shops, waiting to be appreciated by those
who simply like knives.
Evidently, very few frontier-made
knives were signed, and there were very
few collectors at that time and place when
all investments were directed by necessity.
While the blacksmith-made frontier knives
lack the name stamps of their makers and
copyright or patent documentation, they
are no different from the child born on the
frontier without benef it of hospitals,
doctors and birth certificates.

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 55

movies.qxd 5/9/03 11:09 AM Page 056

movie blades
movie blades

As Joan of Arc, Ingrid

Bergman had—and has—
By Hank Reinhardt
no peer. Her combination
of beauty, strength and
vulnerability remains
unmatched in movie
history. Here she is astride
her steed (not shown) and
in full armor, sword
pointed skyward. (photo
courtesy Joe Musso)

56 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

movies.qxd 5/9/03 11:26 AM Page 057

hen I first heard of The Messen- The Messenger, they should get their

W ger, another movie version of the

Joan of Arc story, I thought it
best to ignore it. It just didn’t sound very
money back.
All the armor looks as if it’s straight
out of some cheap fantasy movie, and the
good. However, I caught a trailer on HBO same goes for the swords and other
about the film—directed by Luc Besson weapons. However, the war hats look
and starring Milla Jovovich as Joan and pretty good. As for the fighting, it’s more
John Malkovich as The Dauphin—and was ludicrous than anything else. After the fall
quite impressed. of the Tyrell, the camera pans somewhat
According to the trailer, the producers lovingly over the scene of “carnage.”
spent an enormous amount of time There’s one severed foot, a “tastefully
researching the era in which the story is arranged” group of what might be entrails
set, including the armor and weapons. and, I think, an arm lying about. In short,
They also researched Joan and reportedly it’s the most unrealistic battle scene since
would present a different portrait of “the the Saturday serials.
Maid of Orleans.” On this basis, my wife, Actually, I would be willing to over-
Toni, and I journeyed to the theater look a lot of the flaws and errors if the
prepared to see the new portrait, and to movie had anything else going for it, but
appreciate the research into the clothing this one doesn’t.
and the arms and armor. The Hundred Years War helped create a
One of the most notable things about time of deep cynicism that co-existed with
the movie was the popcorn. It was really a profound and strongly held religious
fresh and delicious. The drinks were well belief. Whatever one’s opinion of Joan of
mixed, and, as usual, the price was sky Arc—and whatever the reality actually
high—but the popcorn was worth it. was—she was able to lead and inspire
I regret to say, however, that I have a many men, those sincere in their religious
weak stomach. Oh, scenes of carnage don’t belief, as well as those quite cynical.
bother me, but really bad acting, directing On the other hand, this movie’s version
and outright falsehoods in a movie have a of Joan could, and did, inspire an exodus
tendency to make me want to heave! from the theater. Don’t waste your time
Nonetheless, I’m not a coward. I with this one. For one thing, I doubt that
walked to the rest room, threw some cold you’ll be as lucky with the popcorn as we
water on my face, steeled my nerves, and were.
went back to try to watch the rest of the
movie. The Definitive Version
I failed. After we left the theater from watching
I made it through the fall of the Tyrell The Messenger, I promised Toni that I
and the relief of Orleans. About 10 minutes would show her the definitive film version
later, though, my stomach quailed at what I of Joan of Arc. Produced by Walter
watched on the screen, and Toni and I had Wanger in the early 1950s, Joan of Arc
to leave. Meanwhile, a couple of my remains one of the most stupendous epics
friends braved the whole film. They told ever produced for the silver screen.
me that as the time approached for Joan to As Joan, Ingrid Bergman had a posi-
be burned at the stake, many in the audi- tively ethereal beauty that really hits home
ence were shouting, “Burn her! Burn her!” in the movie. She was also a tremendous
If the producers paid for research on actress and comes across as a confused

Joan of Arc features one of the best

siege battles ever on the big screen,
including the horrors of trying to
storm walls—men fighting their way
to the top of the ladder only to have it
hurled down or being speared from
the top. (photo courtesy Joe Musso)

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 57

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movie blades
movie blades
The two-hand sword was just beginning to come into vogue
in the time of the historic Joan of Arc. You couldn’t cut
plate armor with it, the author notes, but you could
crush the armor with it. This classic 39 3/4-inch
peas- European sword is by Kevin Cashen, Dept.
ant girl, BL8, 5615 Tyler, Hubbardston, MI 48845
driven by (989) 981-6780 [email protected].
forces she only (PointSeven photo)
partially understands
but in which she fully
believes. La Hire, one of
Joan’s great battle captains, is
well played by a bluff, tough Ward
Bond. Since I always liked what I read
about La Hire, I was pleased to see him
played so admirably. The Dauphin, a some-
what feckless and timid person, is well
handled by Jose Ferrar. I could go on and
on, as everyone in the movie does a superb The two-hand sword was just begin-
job and each is quite believable in his/her ning to become popular at that point in
role. history, and for two knights in full plate
The primary battle in the movie is the armor it was a handy weapon to have.
capture of the Tyrell and the relief of Certainly, you can’t cut plate armor with a
Orleans that’s besieged by an English army regular sword but you can crush it.
under the command of Sir William Glads- The movie is well acted and well done,
dale. This is one of Joan’s first battles and but even more impressive is the costuming,
in it she’s wounded by a crossbow bolt. right down to the haircuts of the men. The
She regains consciousness and insists on hair is worn thick and cut into the shape of
leading a final charge against the Tyrell, a bowl. This was done at first to provide
which falls in the ensuing battle. extra padding under the helmet but also
This is one of the best siege battles became the fashion for the dandies, even if
ever on the big screen, and is worth the they never fought. The armor is accurate
price of the movie rental alone. You see and so are the many swords, pikes,
arrows flying from crossbows and bows, fauchards, pole axes and battle axes. See
and the horrors of trying to storm walls— this one. It’s fun and a good movie as well.
men fighting their way to the top of the
ladder only to have it hurled down or being Editor’s note: Look for the author’s semi-
speared from the top. nar on chain-mail cutting and choreo-
As the Tyrell falls, La Hire climbs over graphed sword fighting at the BLADE
the wall and shouts for Gladsdale, and the Show. For more on it and the show in
two meet in the center and fight with two- general, see the special BLADE Show
hand swords. La Hire drives him back and, section this issue.
rather than surrendering, the Englishman
falls into some burning debris.

According to the author, the armor

in Joan of Arc is accurate, and so
are the many swords, pikes,
fauchards, pole axes and battle
axes. (photo courtesy Joe Musso)

58 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

937729_BL.qxd 5/12/03 12:06 PM Page 1
branton.qxd 5/8/03 8:48 AM Page 60

profile in steel
profile in steel

By Bud Lang

The Branton Brend Marauder Boot knife is a mid-tech knife

resulting from a collaborative effort between Branton Knife Co.
and Walter Brend. The piece features a recurved CPM S30V blade
with a hand-rubbed finish and a black-canvas-Micarta® handle.
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP): $249.

60 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

branton.qxd 5/8/03 8:56 AM Page 61

here are knifemakers, and then there

T are those special knifemakers who

take a little extra time finishing a
blade, those who build knives somewhat
Bobby Branton
Dept. BL8, 4976 Seewee Rd., Awen-
daw, SC 29429 (843) 928-3624 presents the
out of the ordinary, those who care. They www.brantonknives.com
make knives for servicemen going over-
seas to fight for freedom and democracy. BLACKJACK7
WARRIOR
They take time to teach knifemaking, or in Specialties Technical knives, hunters
Bobby Branton’s case, knife throwing, to and small-to-medium-size tactical
others. fixed blades, the latter largely for
Growing up in rural South Carolina,
Branton realized a passion for knives and
active servicemen
Blade Steels A-2, 154CM, 1050, D-2, $99
made them a part of his daily life. Like CPM S30V, O-1 and 5160 ($5 S&H) Warrior s
most country boys, when Bobby was Handles Micarta®, desert ironwood, blade is a
younger, the knives he employed were curly maple, “paraking” wood and brutally direct
tools, nothing more, nothing less. He used olivewood
them for skinning game, f illeting f ish, Marks “BRANTON js” (journeyman combination of point
smith) in block letters on forged knife and edge, eight inches
blades, and “Bobby Branton Awen- long, in AUS-8 steel, convex
daw, SC” on stock-removal pieces; all
semi-production knives are either
ground on all three edges. Grip is
marked “Branton Knife Company” or Kraton over a full tang. In ambidex-
“Bobby Branton ‘mid tech’ Awendaw, trous black leather sheath.
SC”
Sheaths Leather, Kydex® or
Cordura® with Kydex liners Phone orders accepted
Prices $125-$1,000
KNIFEWARE, INC.
P.O. Box 3
Greenville, WV 24945
304 832 6878
www.knifeware.com

Bobby Branton purchased

specialized knifemaking
equipment and the rights
to make Vorpal knives from
Tom Maringer, formerly of
Maringer Custom Cutlery.
The Vorpal Pal is a hand-
made knife showcasing a 3
3/4-inch, hand-rubbed D-2
blade and a maroon-
Micarta® handle. Maker’s
list price: $175.

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 61

branton.qxd 5/12/03 7:14 AM Page 62

profile in steel
profile in steel
doing chores and completing other tasks
around the house, and even for throwing,
the latter strictly for sport and entertain-
ment—in a safe manner!

“George Herron and

Walter Brend had an
impact on Branton
that has lasted until
this day.” —the author
Then, it happened. Twenty years ago,
Bobby discovered handmade knives at a
local shop he visited. Amazed at their
beauty and the craftsmanship involved, he
was simply floored. He began collecting
knives and reading the few books available
on the subjects of knives and knifemaking.
Branton says it was at this point in time
that his life changed dramatically.
In the course of his research on knives,
he noted one name appearing more than
once, and that gent happened to live in his
home state. The knifemaker receiving
mention in several publications was none
other than Blade Magazine Cutlery Hall-
of-Famer ® George Herron, who, at that
time, had a seven-year waiting list for the
purchase of his knives.

Wild Boar The Bobby Branton File

Blades is
the official Favorite Knives Loveless Big Bear or
any medium-size fighter.
distributor of Favorite Knifemakers George
Herron, Walter Brend, Jim Crowell,
Okapi in Ken Onion, Tom Mayo and Rick
the USA Hinderer.
Knife He Carries “One of my little
boot knives, but I hope to build fold-
Ray Simonson ers soon and to carry one of those.”
Renate Voss (Owner of
(Owner of Okapi SA) Favorite Knife Web Pages
Wild Boar Blades)
www.BladeArt.com and www.Blade-
Forums.com.
Come and meet the owners of Dream Knife To Make “I like large,
Walter Brend- or W.W. Cronk-style
Wild Boar Blades sub-hilt fighters, though I’ve never
made one.”
& Okapi SA at the Blade Show in
Atlanta June 13th-15th Bobby eventually bought a few knives
from Herron, and the two became good
friends. As is so often the case in the knife
WILD BOAR BLADES industry, Herron didn’t seem to mind the
KOPROMED USA youngster picking his brain for blade-
1701 Broadway PMB282, Vancouver, WA 98663 stock-removal tips and other knifemaking
PH: 888-735-8483 • FAX: (360) 735-0390 pointers. It was during those early years
E-mail: [email protected]
www.wildboarblades.com that Branton met Walter Brend, yet another

62 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

branton.qxd 5/8/03 8:56 AM Page 63

The beefy Branton/Brend

Marauder sports a 7 1/4-inch, presents the
full-tang D-2 blade that is 1/4-
inch thick, and a black-canvas-
Micarta® grip. MSRP: $325. BLACKJACK7
KUKRI II
$149 Sixteen
($5 S&H)
ounces of
AUS-8 steel,
12 inches in the
blade, curved as
kukris should be,
and convex-ground
to boot. It is
Blackjack Sharp7
and very quick. The
shealth works strong
side or cross-draw, is
U.S.-made in premium
leather.

Phone orders accepted

KNIFEWARE, INC.
P.O. Box 3
Greenville, WV 24945
304 832 6878
www.knifeware.com

Heinzelman
Heat Treating, LLC
“The first commercial hardener, 1915”

Chavar

BW

Services available to the custom

knife-maker:
Heat treating of: Carbon steels,
Pattern welded steels, Stainless steels,
veteran knifemaker willing to help the throwing knives, as well as the skills Tool steels, CPM steels, Ti.
novice in his quest to fashion fine knives. necessary to throw them. McEvoy also Additional services: Cryogenic and
Herron and Brend had an impact on Bran- walked the eager, young maker through the Deep Freezing, Color Case Hardening,
Bead Blasting, Staff Metallurgists.
ton that has lasted until this day. steps of handcrafting throwing knives of Building on over 85 years of heat-
Another chapter of Branton’s life Bobby’s own design. treating experience!
opened when, in 1987, he was introduced It wasn’t too far down the road that
to the late knifemaker Harry K. McEvoy, a Bobby made the acquaintance of ABS
Blade Magazine Cutlery Hall of Famer master smith Jim Crowell, who proceeded
Chavar
who specialized in throwing knives. to teach the willing student about blade
Recognizing Branton’s avid interest in steels and handforging. Ever eager to learn 790 Washington Avenue
Carlstadt, NJ 07072
“everything knives,” and, especially, in more, under Crowell’s guidance, Branton Phone: 201-933-4800 • 800-728-0433
knifemaking and knife throwing, McEvoy forged quite a bit of steel. Persistence paid Fax: 201-933-2575
www.heinzelmanht.com
taught Bobby the art of handcrafting off, and at the 1992 BLADE Show in
AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 63
branton.qxd 5/8/03 8:57 AM Page 64

presents the
profile in steel
profile in steel
BLACKJACK7
STAINLESS
SMALL
The
$115 proven
($5 S&H) Blackjack 7

pattern now in
AUS-10 stainless
steel, with grip of select
cocobolo and through-tang
construction. The three-inch
blade is convex-ground; the
weight is four ounces. The pouch shealth
is U.S. made. It s as much knife as can be Bobby Branton offers the
Vorpal Scalpel, an 8-inch, all-
made in just seven inches. 154CM-steel neck knife
Phone orders accepted equipped with a fitted-Kydex®
sheath and bead chain.
KNIFEWARE, INC.
P.O. Box 3
Greenville, WV 24945
304 832 6878
www.knifeware.com
Atlanta, Branton passed the American
Bladesmith Society tests to earn his jour-
neyman smith stamp.
Over the years, Branton has designed
and developed several patterns of throw-
ing knives, some of which have been used
to win major knife throwing competitions
around the country. He has become
acquainted with knife throwers Paul
LaCross and Kenneth Pierce (a.k.a. Che
Che Whitecloud). Branton says LaCross
was billed as “The World’s Foremost
Knife, Axe and Tomahawk Thrower,” and it
was due to his support and motivation that
Bobby would go on to produce his own
throwing exhibition that he still performs
throughout the southeastern United States.
While LaCross passed away 10 years
ago, Pierce makes an annual visit to assist
Branton when he puts on the annual Amer-
ican Knife Throwers Alliance (AKTA)
National Championships in South
Carolina. As if these activities don’t keep
him busy enough, Branton has become an
af icionado of the western arts of whip
cracking and traditional archery. In addi-
tion to serving as president of the AKTA,
Branton is a past president of the South
Carolina Association of Knifemakers.
In 1996, he was awarded the South
Carolina State Folk Heritage Award for
bladesmithing, a one-time offering
presented to deserving artists by the
General Assembly of the state of South
Carolina. It is given to practitioners of

64 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

927101_BL.qxd 2/26/03 6:52 AM Page 1

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branton.qxd 5/8/03 8:57 AM Page 66

profile in steel
profile in steel
presents the traditional arts deemed important to South now-defunct Maringer Custom Cutlery,
BLACKJACK 7 Carolina communities, and its presentation
is reserved for up to four artists and one
who was selling knifemaking equipment.
One of Maringer’s knife lines was Vorpal
advocate per year. The Folk Heritage knives, with which Bobby was familiar. “I
GRUNT Award recognizes artists who practice
crafts that have been passed down through
asked Maringer if I could start making
Vorpal knives and found out that he had a
$96 generations of families and shared among
community members.
few pieces of specialized equipment for
building them,” Branton says. “I then made
($5 S&H)
In 2000, Branton called upon longtime him an offer for all the equipment and
The Grunt friend Peter LaGana to resurrect the Amer- rights to make the knife designs. I have
offers a Ken ican Tomahawk Co. and bring back the only made a few pieces so far and plan to
popular “Vietnam Tomahawk.” In its pick up the pace as time from Branton
Warner blade design
heyday, the American Tomahawk Co. had Knife Co. allows.”
for maximum cutting with a state-of-the-art supplied tomahawks used by U.S. service- Branton Knife Co. is a semi-production
grip in a truly superior leather sheath. The men during the Vietnam War, and Branton facility that specializes in building mid-
blade (5 " x 1 5/8") is AUS-8 steel convex- played a major role in reviving the then- tech knives using the latest technology
ground. It is Blackjack Sharp¤ with a slicing defunct knife factory. Branton’s role at available, making it possible for a small
American Tomahawk, though, proved to be shop to function profitably. Branton also
curve a full 5 3/8" long. The grip is Kraton,
too much, preventing him from keeping up offers knives born from custom collabora-
molded over a full tang. The sheath is U.S.- with orders for his own handmade knives. tions between himself and Brend and
made, built in heavy leather like a pistol Bobby was forced to choose how best Maringer, as well as his own in-house
holster. to devote his time, and opted for his first designs.
true love—knifemaking. As orders for his
Phone orders accepted knives continued to pour in, Branton
KNIFEWARE, INC. sought an easier way to maintain quality
“Branton has been
P.O. Box 3 while catching up on his backlog. The
Greenville, WV 24945
304 832 6878
dilemma gave birth to the Branton Knife fashioning knives for
Co.
www.knifeware.com Around the same time, Branton saw an 16 years, has studied
ad in BLADE® placed by Tom Maringer of
with some of the most
well-known makers in
the industry and is
fast becoming a top
name himself.” —the
author
Naturally, the idea behind collabora-
tions is to present customers with the
opportunity to purchase knives designed
by top names in the industry without wait-
ing months or years, and paying big bucks.
Branton has been fashioning knives for 16
years, has studied with some of the most
well-known makers in the industry and is
fast becoming a top name himself.
When asked if throwing knives are still
a large part of his handmade and, now,
semi-production output, Branton noted that
he has been making more “technical
knives,” hunters and small-to-medium-
sized tactical fixed blades, the latter largely
for servicemen currently on active duty.
There are knifemakers, and then there
are those who take a little extra time on a
knife, those who share their knowledge
with others, who push the envelope, and
who care. Bobby Branton is such a maker.

66 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

arms.qxd 5/7/03 10:02 PM Page 67

old-world classics
old-world classics

By Jim Phillips

It’s believed that this spectacular

dagger was made between 1808-
1812 by Wooley, Deakin, Dutton
and Johnson, either to celebrate
a particular performance of
Macbeth or to present to an
actor famous for the role. The
eagle’s-head pommel and
scrolling foliage-and-flowers
guard are heavy gilded copper.
The ivory grip is decorated with
gold pique. The blued and gilt
blade is etched with figures
within wreaths: on one face,
Shakespeare
and Lady
Macbeth; on
the other, the
masks of
Comedy and
Tragedy, an actor
playing Macbeth, a
trophy, and the bust of an

F
or the new millennium, the dealer
actor. (Peter Finer photo)
of choice in military antiques and
arms is the firm of Peter Finer,
led by the man of the same name.
Finer’s son, Redmond, has joined the
team full time after learning the antique
arms trade working part time at his
father’s side.
Peter is known and respected in the
top echelons of the arms-collecting world
for the exceptional pieces listed in his
award-winning catalogs. He’s produced five
to date, each a classic for the collector and
worthy of permanent space in any researcher’s

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 67

arms.qxd 5/7/03 10:02 PM Page 68

old-world classics
old-world classics

reference
library.
The catalogs
aren’t just sales
brochures. Finer demands the
ultimate in quality—not only in
the items he selects for sale but in
the presentation of each one. Chris
Challis is the genius behind creating
the exquisite color photographs. Once
exceptional transparencies are made of
each piece, the work has just begun.
Finer’s staff of consultants consists of a
veritable who’s who in the field of antique
arms. The production team for catalog No.
5 was Ian D.D. Eaves, Keeper of Armor at
the Royal Armories; David Edge, Armorer
of the Wallace Collection; Dr. Robert F.W.
Elgood, expert on arms and armor of the
Middle East; and Anthony R.E. North
of the Victoria & Albert Museum.
Along with the rest of Finer’s
production team, they produce not
only a catalog of items for sale but a
reference work for years to come.
What sets Finer apart is his devotion
to locating the ultimate in collector
pieces. He takes great delight in building
the collections of both long-term clients
and the newest entries to the field. Peter
has clients for whom he has built collec-
tions for over 30 years. In fact, he refers
to each collection as “our collection”—
and he means it. He takes great satisfac-
tion in locating that one item which a
collector must have, sometimes taking
A fine, rare French This 15th-century years to acquire it. With Finer, you are a
or English ballock Italian sword is an client for life.
dagger sports silver extremely rare
mounts bearing example of a
shields engraved knightly piece
retaining its origi-
“He delights in
with the arms of
Grandison, circa nal rock crystal
pommel. Pommels
building the
1470. The Grandison
family has a rich made of semi-
precious stone or
collections of both
military tradition in
English history. Sir rock crystal were
thought to have
long-term clients
William Grandison
fought against the talismanic proper-
ties. Swords with
and the newest
Scots at the Battle
of Falkirk in 1298 such pommels are
often depicted in
entries to the field.”
and was at the
Siege of Carlavrock 15th-century paint-
ings, almost always
—the author
in 1300. Ballock
daggers were worn worn by saints or
with the grip point- knights, but very Among his most valued clients are
ing down at an rarely survive
Victoria & Albert Museum; National
angle so they could because of their
fragility. Overall Museum of Ireland, Dublin; Metropolitan
be easily seen. Museum of Art, New York; Higgins
Overall length: 17 length: 46 1/2
3/4 inches. (Peter inches. (Peter Finer Armory Museum, Worcester, Massachu-
Finer photo) photo) setts; and Cleveland Museum of Art,
Cleveland, Ohio, as well as hundreds of

68 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

arms.qxd 5/12/03 5:45 PM Page 69

August 1, 2 and 3, 2003

HOLIDAY INN SOUTH
3401 South I-35 at Woodward - Austin, Texas 78741
FREE AIRPORT SHUTTLE!
(512) 448-2444 - RESERVATIONS • Special Hotel Rate
General Public Welcome: $5.00 Admission - 3 day pass $10
SHOW HOURS: ★★★ 6’ Sales Tables $125 ★★★
Friday, 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM Electrical outlets are an additional $10
Auction Saturday Night: 7:30 PM
Saturday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Reserve your table NOW! -
Sunday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
We sold out early in 2002
Contact: Chris Carlson, 108 Johnson Cove, Hutto, TX 78634 (512) 759-5111 - email [email protected]
Mail to: Name:
Chris Carlson, 108 Johnson Cave, Hutto, TX 78634 Address:
Please Reserve 6 ft Trade Tables for the City: State: Zip:
2003 Central Texas Knife Show at:
❏ $125 each My Table(s) will consist of:
❏ $140 (w/electric outlet additional $10) ❏ Old Knives ❏ New Knives ❏ Custom Knives
★ Payment must be paid in full in order to reserve show tables ★
Robert Ables Chester Darcey Ken Linton Pete Peterson Johnny Stout
List of Table Robert Richard Epting J.B. Moore O.C. Perkins Masao Takahashi
Holders @ Blasingame Brad Duncan Perry Miller Jack Putnam Texas Knifemaker
the Central Bailey Bradshaw John Fitch Marion Meyers Wayne Robertson Supply
Texas Knife Harvey Dean Tony Foster Don Morrow Hal Rose Lee Toms
Claude Eddy Jason Howell Mark Nagle Bill Ruple J. Bruce Voyles
Show as of Allen Elishewitz E.K. Howell Pat Patterson Jim Sargent John Warren
April, 2003 Dwayne Dushane Bill Keller James Parks Joe Seale Curtis Wilson

James Morisset, the maker of this

circa 1797 sword, was probably the
most important goldsmith and
enameler working in London in the
Large
last quarter of the 18th century. The
German blade is of a hollow trian-
gular cross section with traces of
Trapper
etched and gilt scrolls. The
pommel, knucklebow, grip and oval
guard are cast and chased in relief
with acanthus leaves and classical
swags. Overall length: 39 1/2
inches. (Peter Finer photo)

private individuals.
If you’d like to see some of Finer’s
arms and armor, he regularly displays
select pieces at a number of events
throughout the year, including the 7th
Regiment Armory Show in New York,
usually held in mid-October; the Winter
Antiques Show in New York City each This Large Trapper carries both clip and long spey blades and measures in at 4-3/16” closed. It’s the
January; the Palm Beach, Florida, Inter- sixth and final pattern to be made in 2002, and features a fancy blade etch, premium D2 steel, and an
‘02’ date stamping on the blade. A total of 250 have been produced in several handle materials, includ-
national Art & Antique Fair in February; ing Mastodon Ivory, Stag, Imitation Tortoise Shell, and various colors of Bone and Micarta.
and the San Francisco Fall Antiques Show
Marble’s Outdoors has granted us the exclusive right to produce antique reproduction cutlery marked with the famous
in early November. In addition, he M.S.A. Co. stamp. These, and all of the above, are available from quality dealers and through our distributors:
displays at premier art and antiques exhi- *Blue Ridge 276-783-6143 *Bowie Corporation 906-864-3922
bitions in Europe.
Not only does Finer have the ultimate David G. Shirley and The Custom Shoppe, LLC
in swords, from claymores to rapiers, but
13 Weston Ave., Gladstone, MI 49837
AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 69
arms.qxd 5/7/03 10:03 PM Page 70

Exhibiting at
old-world classics
old-world classics
The Blade Show
and International
Cutlery Fair
Table 3-J
June 13, 14 & 15
Atlanta, GA

Made circa 1630, this fine

English rapier boasts a cup hilt
of flat rings and shell-shaped
plates linked by curved bars.
The entire surface of the hilt is
encrusted with fruit, flowers,
tendrils, leaves and masks in
engraved and chased silver.
(Peter Finer photo)

For information call:

Don Lozier
(352) 625-3576
70 / BLADE AUGUST 2003
arms.qxd 5/7/03 10:03 PM Page 71

also daggers, from a 1600s ballock to a full great names of the past.
selection of Scottish dirks of the 1700s. Finer is a great advocate of all collec-
His passion, however, is bronze artillery tors having a reference library. He carries a
pieces, from models made in 1610 to full- choice selection of the great books written
sized field pieces used by Napoleon. on the subject. He and his staff will assist
you with both building a reference library
and directing your collection.
You’re in for a pleasant surprise if you
“Finer is a great visit him at any of his displays. Be you a
pauper or a king, if you share a love of the
advocate of all world’s arms and armor, your visit with
him will be worth your while.
collectors having a If you’re past building a collection and are
reference library.” interested in buying or selling a choice
piece or collection of arms and armor—all
prior to 1900—contact Finer at (800) 270-
—the author 7951 24 hours a day, or e-mail
[email protected]. A selection of currently
available pieces can be viewed via the
He features a full selection of suits of company Web site at www.peterfiner.com.
armor, from Europe to Japan, and ancient
helmets from around the world. He also
offers ivory powder flasks, matchlocks,
flintlocks and percussion guns made by the

Dragons are the theme for

this circa 1640 German
rapier decorated by Caspar
Spat. The pommel is formed
as a pair of winged dragons
back-to-back, and the quil-
lons form a long-necked,
winged dragon with a scroll-
ing tail and clawed feet.
Overall length: 46 inches.
(Peter Finer photo)

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 71

QANDA.qxd 5/9/03 9:10 PM Page 2

question &
question & answer

answer ■ By Wayne Goddard

BLADE® field editor

The Mystery Crack

The author plays sleuth in a “whodunit”
concerning the source of a blade flaw

ILLUSTRATION 1: Here’s a
side view of a blade that
broke at the square corner
where the blade met the
handle. A thin line of black
showed in the end view.
This means the crack got
its start during the
quench.

ILLUSTRATION 2: This is
1: I forged a nice straight-back Rezin the end view of a sword
Bowie-type bowie from Starrett brand blade (above) that broke at
O-1 tool steel and it developed a little C- the junction of blade and
shaped crack about a quarter inch from guard. The thin black line is
where the tang joined the blade. It was a at the center of the circle.
full-tang piece so it’s not totally ruined,
as I can make a good butcher knife from ILLUSTRATION 3: Here’s a
typical crack at a knife edge
it. A friend of mine who’s an engineer
that can be caused by a
said that such a crack is produced by an coarse grinding mark or
impurity in the metal. Have you seen ding. More often than not
such cracks? Do you know anything it’s from a quenchant that
about thermal spalling, as he called it, worked too fast, or perhaps
produced by impurities? an edge that’s too thin.
My second question is about springs.
A guy gave me a couple of leaf springs
from an old MG sports car that are just if the MG springs are 5160 or some tify. The O-1 is expensive and its quality
the right size for making knives. Most other steel. It seems there may not be is now questionable. Do you have any
American springs are 2.25 inches wide. I enough alloy in 5160 to enable me to tell suggestions? (Joe Smith, Arizona)
either have to hammer them narrower, it from 1065. Is there a way to tell the
which is very laborious, or pay someone difference? It seems kind of silly to I’m not familiar with the exact term ther-
to cut them. I can’t tell by spark testing make a knife from a steel I can’t iden- mal spalling and could find nothing in my

72 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

QANDA.qxd 5/9/03 9:28 PM Page 3

question & answer

The author recommends 5160 high-carbon steel for bowies. finished 5160 and a giraffe bone handle. His address: Dept. BL8,
Jerome Anders’“Dueling Bowie” has a 10-inch blade of satin- POB 1712, Conway, AR 72833 (501) 268-5717. (KnifeShop.tv photo)

metallurgical library with that specif ic was caused by an impurity in the steel, crack was the result of an experiment in
name. A C-type crack can start at a stress especially a C-shaped crack formed on the water quenching a blade made of band-saw
riser or be caused at a knife edge by a outer edge of a blade or at a stress riser. If steel. The curved shape of the crack at the
hardening quench that works too fast. A the crack did start because of an impurity, I edge is typical in blades that crack from a
stress riser on a blade is any sharp change think you could see evidence of that on the quench that’s too severe. The blade actually
in contour, a surface defect or even a blade. The new adjustable power (60x- had two such cracks, the other being just
coarse grinding mark or hammer ding that 100x) microscopes from Radio Shack that beyond the image area shown in Illustra-
doesn’t clean up with the grinder. The clas- have a built-in light (Model 63-1133, tion 3.
sic stress riser that’s caused many knives to $9.95 MSRP) are perfect for this type of Spark testing to identify steel is diffi-
break is a square corner where the tang detective work. cult to do unless you have known examples
meets the blade. Illustration 3 shows the type of crack of the steel you’re trying to identify. Steel
I asked Mr. Smith via return e-mail if formed when the quench is too severe. The will show a different spark pattern depend-
there was a radius at the junction of the ing on its hardness. A hardened piece of
blade and tang, and he indicated that there steel sparks quite differently than the same
was. This means that a stress riser would steel when annealed.
have to be ruled out as the cause for the “I’d put my reputa- If I were you and wanted to use up the
start of the crack. When the junction of the MG springs, I would work up a blade, put
tang and blade is too square and/or exhibits tion on a superior it through a testing program and adjust the
rough saw or grinding marks, it can often heat treat if necessary. Then I’d use it all up
result in a crack at the time of the quench. heat treat rather than before starting on another source of steel.
See Illustrations 1 and 2, which show When I had a finished knife on my table,
closeups of blades that failed because of on knowing the pedi- I’d call it MG spring steel. I’d put my repu-
cracks that formed at a square corner tation on a superior heat treat rather than
where the tang met the blade. gree of the steel type.” on knowing the pedigree of the steel type.
Mr. Smith, I don’t think you need to Too many knives are made of a steel that
worry about the quality of the Starrett —the author makers know exactly what it is and yet
material. I would be surprised if the crack they turn out blades of it that aren’t heat
AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 73
QANDA.qxd 5/12/03 7:05 AM Page 4

THE BIG CAT IS ON THE MOVE question & answer

treated properly.
Purchasing new steel is more cost effi-
cient than cutting up springs, saws and
PUMA introduces a revolutionary NEW Exchange Blade system for hunters. The set other scrap steel—that is, if you figure
your time as money.
includes a White Hunter blade, Skinmaster blade and a NEW Hunters Saw all which
I would recommend 5160 for bowie-
lock into the aluminum die cast handle with Stag inlay. Leather pouch included. style knives. The Web site www.admiral-
steel.com is a good source for 5160. The
phone number: (800) 323-7055.

2: I enjoyed your article, “The Big Wax

P282100 White Hunter Blade with Test,” in the April BLADE®. I went
Exchange Blade Handle online to find where in Honolulu I could
find the Briwax product you described
in your story. It was stocked at our local
Skinmaster Blade Woodcraft store. The online information
stated that the shelf life of an unopened
can is 12 months and I noted that the
Hunters Saw
can you used in your test was at least 20
years old. It must be that some of the
solvent—toluene—was lost and that may
Contact us about our Authorized PUMA Dealers Program be the reason why it was difficult to get a
Exclusive PUMA importer for U.S.A., Canada and Mexico uniform coat on the 15-inch bowie
blade. I presume that the Briwax you
COAST CUTLERY CO. used is comparable to the current “Orig-
P.O. Box 5821 • Portland, Oregon 97214 inal” formula, or has the formula
Phone: 800-426-5858 • FAX: (503) 234-4422 changed in 20 years?
I found the following information at
the Briwax site: “Briwax is a solvent-
based blend of beeswax and carnauba
wax, two of the finest wood-finishing
waxes known to man. Most of the waxes

Blue Ridge Knives found on the shelves today contain the

solvents turpentine or mineral spirits. We
use a much hotter solvent, toluene,
which allows us to emulsify more of the
Blue Ridge Knives • Department BL • 166 Adwolfe Road • Marion, VA 24354 harder, more durable waxes like
E-Mail: [email protected] • Web Site: www.blueridgeknives.com carnauba to give better protection to
your finished surfaces. The use of a
Phone (276) 783-6143 • Fax (276) 783-9298
hotter solvent results in the wax setting
much quicker, giving the customer the

The only knife higher luster of the Briwax f inish

faster.”
A Web search of toluene resulted in

book you'll the following information: “Toluene gets

into the environment when solvents or
paints or paint thinners have been

ever need discarded. It quickly evaporates into the

air. In the air it can combine with
oxygen to form benzaldehyde and cresol,

Over 200 Brands which can be harmful to people. Fish,

shellfish, plants and animals living in
the water can take up toluene, but high
Send a copy of your levels do not accumulate in them.”
business license and I ran into Tom Mayo, a local knife-
$3 (refundable) for maker, at the Woodcraft store. He was
744 page color excited about his design that’s being
catalog. Minimum produced by Buck Knives. (For more on
order required. it, see the story on page 28.) Tom’s
enthusiasm about CPM S30V stainless
D E A L E R S O N LY ! steel prompted me to look through a
W O R L D -W I D E W H O L E S A L E D I S T R I B U T O R collection of knife-related magazines to
find out more about this material. I

74 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

QANDA.qxd 5/12/03 7:00 AM Page 5

found several articles by Phil Wilson (see

the April, July and August ’02 issues of
BLADE). Are there any thoughts to
update your edge-holding tests to
include S30V, VG-10 and other more
recent blade steels? (Harry Masaki,
Hawaii)

Thanks, Harry, for the useful information.

It’s now necessary for me to verify my
original test results to make sure the 20-
year-old Briwax didn’t have an advantage
over the other waxes in my test. I went to
our local Woodcraft store and purchased a
new can of clear Briwax with which to
make my comparisons. A comparison of
the consistency of the old and new waxes
didn’t show much difference.

“Purchasing new steel

is more cost efficient
than cutting up
springs, saws and
other scrap steel—
that is, if you figure
your time as money.”
—the author
Next, I marked the center of a strip of
steel with masking tape and coated one
RazorSharp.
Razor-Edge.
end with the 20-year-old wax, the other
with the fresh wax. I then applied two large
water drops to each end and waited for
them to evaporate. There was no damage to
the steel, so I believe my comparisons Our sharpening products, book
made in the April BLADE are valid. and videos will help give your
However, the 20-year-old wax was a bit
more difficult to apply compared to the blades the perfect edge. Call and
fresh wax. Now I’m wondering if I should order our FREE catalog today.
get some toluene and see if I can get the
20-year-old wax to act more like the fresh.
Regarding S30V, I have my first test
1-800-541-1458
blades in process and will share my test
comparisons when they’re complete. I
haven’t found a source for VG-10 from
which to make test blades. I’ll try to round
up some commercial knives made of it in
order to do some comparisons.

Send your questions to BLADE, P.O. Box

789, Ooltewah, TN 37363-0789 e-mail
[email protected]. Include an
SASE for a personal response from Mr.
Goddard or e-mail him at wgoddard44@
earthlink.net, including your full name and
where you live. Due to the large volume of
questions, please be patient in receiving
your answer.
303 North 17th Avenue East, Ely, MN 55731 • www.razoredgesystems.com

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 75

QUEEN.qxd 5/9/03 11:22 AM Page 86

factory focus
factory focus

2of Steel
Two Storied Stalwarts
Ontario

Queen
The new Queen Wildcat Driller is a handful at 4 1/2 inches closed with mirror-polished spear and
spey blades of 420HC stainless, and a Golden-Age jigged-bone handle with a sterling-silver keystone
shield. Note the cut-in swedge on the spine of the master blade. MSRP: $167.38. (Editor’s note: This photo-
By Butch Winter

graph is for illustrative purposes only. Not only is opening both blades at the same time unsafe, it also exerts
undue pressure on the pocketknife’s backsprings.)

ntario and Queen are a classic case things like long-pull nail marks and cut-in

O of opposites that attract. Queen

makes traditional-style pock-
etknives and hunting knives—there are no
“They do it the
old fashioned
swedges,” observes Jennie Moore,
company marketing director.
The File & Wire Series has two new
black-plastic-handle tactical folders in its patterns: a 4-inch, four-blade congress
line. Meanwhile, Ontario produces mili- sporting extended signature bolsters, and a
tary, combat, survival, utility and kitchen
way, and a lot of swing-guard lockback with a spear-point
knives, along with models designed for
industrial applications. Each company
handwork goes master blade that will debut in June—just
in time for the BLADE Show June 13-15
traces its respective lineage to just before into each knife.” at the Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta.
the turn of the 20th century, and both have “The File & Wire Tested mark was
been working under the same umbrella —Dan Burke employed over 60 years ago to ensure the
since 1970. You might say there’s a little bit hardness of a blade by cutting it with a
of everything for knife enthusiasts when new f ile, and then testing the edge by
they choose from the lines of these two cutting wire of known consistency and
storied stalwarts of steel. (MSRPs) of $129-$167. Each knife has a hardness,” company president Bob Breton
For example, there’s the traditional in Golden Age jigged-bone handle and 420 HC notes. Both knives will feature ATS-34
the latest from Queen’s high-profile Schatt stainless steel blades. Also in the group is an blades, File & Wire signature red jigged-
& Morgan line—the Collectibles Series equal-end senator pattern with a mammoth bone handles, distinctive Schatt & Morgan
XIII—featuring sterling-silver keystone ivory handle ($197.54 MSRP). Each comes shields, decorative blade etchings and
shields. The patterns include a two-blade in a limited-production run of 600. limited quantities.
barlow, physician’s knife, equal-end split- The Schatt & Morgan limited-edition Queen is into its second year using the
backspring whittler, Mountain Man lock- models have all the bells-and-whistles of near-stainless D-2 tool steel on 90 percent
back folding hunter, and Wildcat Driller America’s heyday of classic pocketknives of its production knives and, Breton
two-blade sleeveboard, all of which range in from the early 20th century. “Queen goes advises, the company intends to continue
manufacturer’s suggested retail prices to great pains to dress the blades up with to use it in the future. “There are very few
76 / BLADE AUGUST 2003
QUEEN.qxd 5/12/03 1:17 PM Page 87

“Queen goes to great pains to dress the blades up

with long-pull nail marks and cut-in swedges.”
—Jennie Moore

A mammoth ivory handle lasered with the knife’s name high-

lights the Queen office knife, also new this year. The equal-end
senator pattern is 3 1/4 inches closed and offers pen and coping
blades of 420HC stainless. MSRP: $197.54. (Editor’s note: This
photograph is for illustrative purposes only. Not only is opening
both blades at the same time unsafe, it also exerts undue pres-
sure on the pocketknife’s backsprings.)

people in the factory knife industry who longhorn-steer head is carved into one Fortress and Midnight in the original
are using D-2,” he observes. “It’s an side of the handle. series, two more models with shorter
outstanding blade steel with high carbon “I’m really excited about the BG-42 blades have been added: The Plainsman
and high chromium. It’s used in every tool- steel in the blades,” he continues. “It’s and The Drifter.
and-die shop in the USA for making steel really terrif ic stuff. I’ve been making Ontario makes many knives for indus-
cutting dies.” knives for over 30 years and this is the try, including lettuce and cabbage models,
Moore, who might be just a wee-bit best steel I’ve ever used.” Burke says that grape hooks and knives, professional
prejudiced, says, “Queen makes the best the next knife in the series hasn’t been butcher and chef ’s pieces, and field and
production knives on the market. Ours are settled on yet, though it will be a harvesting knives. The company also
the best available from the standpoint of Sheffield-style slip joint. produces fruit and vegetable knives,
materials and attention to detail in the While Queen offers a mix of tradi- oyster and clam models, linoleum and
manufacturing process.” tional and handmade, Ontario concen- roofing knives and, of all things, a shoe
Custom knifemaker Dan Burke, who’s trates on a wide range of knife lines, knife for the leather craftsman. It also
working on a special collaboration project including Old Hickory household cutlery, does some private label manufacturing.
with Queen, agrees. “I’m very pleased with Spec Plus combat and survival knives, “Ontario had a down year last year but
the way Queen makes knives,” he stresses. Black Wind swords, machetes and a things have picked up lately due to world
“They do it the old fashioned way, and a lot diving knife/probe. In addition, the
of handwork goes into each knife.” company boasts its “U.S. Military Issue
Burke says he will be doing several
designs for Queen, the first of which uses
Knives” line, which consists of the
Marine Combat; Mark 3-Navy; the pilot-
“Ontario scored a
an old Sheffield exhibition knife of the survival knife, which Ontario refers to as coup recently when
1890s for inspiration. “It’s a cattle knife the Survival; M9 and M7 bayonets; and
pattern with clip, coping and spey blades reproductions of the P3-Army Quarter- it was awarded the
[$300 MSRP]. It will have stainless steel master and P4-U.S.M.C. Combat.
liners and bolsters with BG-42 blades. The There’s also the company’s Master contract for a new
handles will be white cattle bone,” Burke Series of bowies designed by Bill
explains. “The original Sheffield knife had Bagwell, one of the founders of the Amer- Marine bayonet.”
ivory handles but I think cattle bone is
more appropriate for a cattle knife. A
ican Bladesmith Society. In addition to
the Hell’s Belle, The Gambler, The
—the author
AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 77
QUEEN.qxd 5/9/03 8:04 PM Page 88

factory focus
factory focus

“There are very

few people in the
factory knife
industry who are
using D-2.”
—Bob Breton
Al Mar Benchmade
Becker Knife & Tool
Boker Chris Reeve
Swiss-Tech
Gerber Kershaw
SOG Spyderco
William Henry
Victorinox Surefire
Columbia River
Sentry Solutions “If anyone is
and many other fine brands qualified to
design a
.
survival knife,
ord Jeff Randall
f
af
ca
n would seem to
u be the man.”
t yo
s
be —the author
e
th
y
Bu

7 Days
11 am - 9 pm EST

(973) 962-6143
P.O. BOX 87
Ringwood, NJ 07456-0087

www.skylandscutlery.com

The TAK ($79.99 MSRP) is Jeff Randall’s latest utility/survival design for Ontario. With a 4
1/4-inch flat-ground blade of zinc-phosphate-coated 1095 high-carbon steel and a green
Micarta® handle, it’s a junior version of the Ontario/Randall 17 1/8-inch-long RTAK.

78 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

QUEEN.qxd 5/12/03 7:34 AM Page 89

A 5-inch, double-hollow-ground blade of brush-finished 1095 high-carbon steel and a

slender Kraton handle combine to give Ontario’s Spec Plus Magnum Ranger a stream-
lined look. MSRP: $49.95.

events,” Breton said. The company also industrial and more, Ontario/Queen has a
scored a coup recently when it was awarded blade for you.
the contract for a new Marine bayonet,
which it will start delivering in the second
half of the year. (Editor’s note: For more on
the new bayonet, stay tuned to future issues Queen
of BLADE®.) Dept. BL8, 507 Chestnut St.
Ontario is into the second year of offer- Titusville, PA 16354
ing its Jeff Randall designs. The company (800) 222-5233
introduced the RTAK (Randall’s Training & www. queencutlery.com
Adventure Knife) early last year and, more Ontario
recently, the TAK (Training & Adventure Dept. BL8, 26 Empire St.
Knife). Randall is well known as a survival Franklinville, NY 14737
school instructor and has written about (800) 222-5527
survival-type knives, including some for www.ontarioknife.com
BLADE. If anyone is qualified to design a Specialties Traditional pocketknives, util-
survival knife, he would seem to be the man. ity and hunting knives and the new Dan
The TAK is 10 inches overall with a Burke collaboration (Queen); and military,
4.25-inch cutting edge. The drop-point blade utility, kitchen and industrial knives,
is .1875 inch thick and made of 1095 high- swords, collaborations with Bill Bagwell
and Jeff Randall, and machetes (Ontario)
carbon steel hardened to 56-58 Rc. The
blade has a full flat grind and a zinc-phos- Blade Steels D-2, ATS-34, BG-42 and
phate coat. An ergonomic, green Micarta® 420HC (Queen); and 1095, 420HC,
handle comes with a lanyard hole. Weight: 440A and QS13 (Ontario)
10 ounces. The ambidextrous sheath is green Handle Materials Mother-of-pearl,
Cordura and has lashing holes for attach- cocobolo, Golden-Age, red-jigged and
ment or paracord storage. The RTAK is a carved-stag bone, mammoth ivory, winter-
bottom Delrin, Fibron™ composite,
long version of the TAK with a 10-inch clip- pakkawood, Micarta® and black cherry
point blade, an extended pommel and an (Queen); and nylon, Kraton, Gnvory
overall length of 17 1/8 inches. Micarta, stacked leather, high-impact plas-
These are but a few of the models from tic, paracord wrap and wood (Ontario)
these two legendary cutlery leviathans.
Suffice it to say that if you want it sharp,
traditional, handmade, military, kitchen,
AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 79
SPEC.qxd 5/9/03 11:30 AM Page 2

spec sheet
spec sheet
■ By MSG Kim Breed
5th Special Forces Group (retired)

Little Upswept Beauty

with Lots of Extras
Whether cleaning game or just for general purposes,
O’Machearley’s utility fixed blade excels
ATS-34 blade has a fine satin polish. I

T
he enthusiasm of new knife- and look. They have none of the classic
makers is unequaled. There beginner’s goofs, just good, clean lines. It rolled the knife around in my hand to check
are so many questions to ask looks like Trout had a good student. for inappropriate sharp or pointed edges
and then most novice O’Machearley is in the transitional and found none. A good utility knife can’t
cutlers just dive phase of going from part- to full-time have any sharp projections on the handle,
headf irst into knifemaking. That’s one big step. More of guard, etc., that dig into your hand while
the craft. My my advice to him is to simply keep on you’re using it. I headed for the garage to
making knives—and best of luck. see how the knife would perform.
When Michael called me, I had a
chance to ask him a few questions. One The Chef Test
was What kind of knife is your specialty? I used a fillet grip with the utility blade to
He had the best answer I’ve heard in 12 strip off small sections of cardboard,
years of evaluating such things: “I special- employing the quick slices a chef would use.
ize in knives with a point on one end and a The blade cut full length on every stroke. I
handle at the other.” In other words, he continued through 4 feet of cardboard with-
likes to make any and all styles. out missing a lick. The knife just kept on
When the knife he made for the delivering smooth cuts. It’s very lightweight
“Spec Sheet” test arrived, I was and quick. I held it in a thumb-forward posi-
surprised to find that it has a tion to get a feel for the cutting motions
best advice to few embellishments: a nicely associated with skinning. The knife seemed
new makers is to f ileworked spine and to flow from my fingertips, a big plus for
f ind and learn from mosaic handle pins. timely and safe skinning. Unfortunately,
another maker in your Both are welcome hunting season was over at the time of this
area who has experi- additions to a util- test, so the actual skinning of game was out.
ence. ity knife. The Since I was at my work bench, I grabbed
When Michael O’Mac- hollow- some half-inch sisal rope. The upswept util-
hearley (o-MOCK-errlee) started ground ity blade accomplished 35 clean cuts on the
three years ago, he had the guid- rope and f ive
ance of veteran maker George more with extra
Trout. You can tell O’Machearley had pressure. I did
early help by the way his knives feel the last five just
to test the feel of
An upswept blade of ATS-34 with a the handle under
pleasing amount of filework and a duress. Michael
cocobolo handle distinguish Michael contoured the
O’Machearley’s utility fixed blade. The 8- handle well so
ounce-leather sheath is hand-tooled and
that I experi-
stitched. Maker’s list price: $125.
enced no hot
spots on my
Employing a fillet grip and chef’s strokes, hand even with
the author used the knife to slice cardboard the added pres-
with abandon. sure. Next, I
used the knife to
80 / BLADE AUGUST 2003
SPEC.qxd 5/9/03 11:32 AM Page 3

The author used

the utility knife
to chop through
a 2 1/2-inch
dried-out Technology with an Edge
branch. Even
with sand and
mud encrusted
in the branch’s The Technology.. Kershaw’s Double Cross
bark, the blade
edge showed no
damage at all.

The Edge.................• One-hand opening & closing

chop clean through a 2 1/2-inch dried-out • Two blades—one locking liner
handle thong accommodates a large hand.
branch. Not bad for a small knife! Even with • AUS6A premium-quality steel
Besides, it adds a classy touch to the over-
sand and mud encrusted in the branch’s • Beautiful Stamina® wood
all look. The sheath is waterproofed for
bark, the blade edge showed no damage at inlay handles
extra knife protection.
all. A few scratches from the sand was the • Kershaw’s “shaving-sharp”
only sign that the knife had been used. edge
Grading Out
• Lifetime guarantee
With upswept blades, care must be taken This little upswept beauty has a lot of
as to design. Too much sweep in the belly extras. Whether cleaning game or just for
and you have a chopper; too little and you general purposes, it handles the task.
lose any advantage the upswept blade Michael is getting off on the right foot and
provides. When penetrating point first, the I look forward to watching him grow as a
tip should enter the medium with your arm knifemaker. Now is definitely the time to
pushing straight forward. The tip of the buy one of his knives.
blade slid into the medium every time—a
sign of good design. For more information contact Michael
Michael has a new Paragon furnace and O’Machearley, Dept. BL8, 129 Lawnview,
heat treats his own blades. To see how the Wilmington, OH 45177 (937) 382-7569.
blade edge would flex, I began by locking a
brass rod in the vise on my work bench.
The edge-flex test can be very stressful on
steel. I put just enough pressure on the edge
against the rod until I see a flex “hump.” I
pull the hump along the length of the blade,
SPEC CHART
flip the knife over and repeat the process on Model Utility fixed blade
the other side. Steel heat treated correctly Maker Michael O’Machearley
will flex and return to true. If the steel is Blade Style Upswept/Persian
too hard, the edge chips out and you end up Blade Steel ATS-34
with what looks like a serration; too soft, Rockwell Hardness 58 Rc
and the edge stays bent over. Michael got it Blade Grind Hollow
right and his blade performed the edge flex Blade Length 5”
flawlessly. Overall Length 9 1/2”
Handle Cocobolo
Sheath Report Handle Pins Maker’s own custom design Model 4380
The black pouch sheath is nicely tooled and Guard Nickel silver MSRP $69.95
hand stitched. Enough of the handle Sheath Hand tooled and stitched 8-oz.
extends from it when the knife is sheathed leather
to enable you to withdraw it easily. A laced Maker’s List Price $125 Blade1.......2 3/8 in. (5.9cm.)
Blade2......1 7/8 in. (4.7cm.)
Steel.........AUS6A stainless
Handle .....Stamina® wood inlay
The knife deliv- Closed......3 1/2 in. (8.9cm.)
ered 35 smooth Weight .....2.2 oz.
cuts on half-
inch sisal rope
and five more
with a little extra
pressure.
Despite the
added empha-
sis, the author
said he experi-
enced no hot For information or a dealer near you, call:
spots on his 1-800-325-2891
hand. www.kershawknives.com

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 81

FINNISH.qxd 5/9/03 10:56 AM Page 82

to the finnish
to the finnish

d’s K auhava According to the

author, Markku enjoyed

Finlan Festival heavy traffic at his

display table during

Knife ses a the Kauhava Knife

Festival He builds

showca Finnish
puukkos and sheaths that
are “ruggedly elegant and
f
wealth o kers and
well made.”This model
boasts a 3-inch blade of

knifema untry’s
forged high-carbon steel
and a handle of dyed
curly birch with a cast-

the co ning brass bolster and antler

buttcap. The knife comes

reawakeulture
with a custom-formed
half-leather and half-

puukko c
wood sheath.

By Harriet
Mars-Kellokoski

82 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

FINNISH.qxd 5/9/03 11:00 AM Page 83

S
ummer in Finland, the land of the Kauhava. Today, only two factories
midnight sun, beautiful country- remain. The town emblem incorporates a
side, sauna, fresh f ish and new puukko, which is Finnish for knife, and
potatoes, and puukkos—does it get any many in the town have knifemaking
better? My husband, Jouni Kellokoski, ancestors. Housed in the modern library
and I were in Finland for business and to across from the show is a knife museum,
visit family. During even the roof of
our visit we attended which is formed in
the Kauhava Knife the shape of knife
Festival. In the land
of the midnight sun,
“Around the turn blades!

the sun is up all of the 20th century, Show Time

night, as were our When we entered
spirits. Kauhava was the show, the f irst
The Puukkos exhibiting knife-
Festival exhibition Finland’s knife- maker we met was
hall where the 40- Timo Lauri. Lauri’s
table show was held making capital.” g randfather, who
is an old wooden
building with a large
—the author sold f ittings and
bolsters to other
f ield adjoining it. makers over 80
There was a summer- years ago, started
fair atmosphere to the one of the two facto-
proceedings, though it was fairly quiet. In ries remaining in Kauhava. Today, Timo
addition to a knife show, knife-throwing makes blades for many other makers. The
and forging competitions were also part handforged finish is in style in Finland
of the event. and elsewhere, and he was just introduc- THE PROTECTOR
In its heyday around the turn of the ing a blade with differential tempering to
20th century, Kauhava was Finland’s sell to makers. In the tradition of DAVID MOR-
knifemaking capital, with over 40 facto- At the next table, a knifemaker named RELL’S best-selling THE
ries and workshops. After World War II Antti was hand stitching a sheath. His
FIFTH PROFESSION, this
there were 30 knifemaking factories in molded leather sheaths are sculpted and
the countr y, 26 of which were in finely finished. He’s been making knives powerful tale of a super-body-
guard hunting down a rogue
client who controls a new and
disturbing weapon promises to
be the most imitated thriller for
years to come.

THE PROTECTOR contains

more action than any other
Morrell book, including FIRST
BLOOD. It features never-
before seen tradecraft, such as
the latest surveillance tech-
niques, armaments, car-fighting
tactics, and mind manipulation.
Based on extensive interviews
with special-ops agents working
around the world, it confirms
Morrell as the master of high-
action suspense.

According to the author,

Pasi (left, inset) makes
impressive Lapp-style “If you’re reading Morrell, you’re
knives, such as this sami
sitting on the edge of your seat.”
with a 3.5-inch blade of
forged high-carbon steel Michael Connelly, City of Bones
and a handle of scrimmed
reindeer horn and arctic
birch burl. He made a sami-
style woman’s-tool-and- Available May 2003 from Warner Books
jewelry combination for the ISBN: 0-446-53068-9, $25.95
author similar to the one
Visit the author’s Web site at:
that she (right, inset) wore www.davidmorrell.net
on her belt during the www.emersonknives.com
Kauhava Knife Festival.

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 83

FINNISH.qxd 5/9/03 11:03 AM Page 84

totothe finnish
the finnish
Looking for
better
edge retention? “The Kauhava
puukko is the best
Ed Severson,
known of Finnish
Metallurgist

SM
knives.”
—Taisto Kuortti

Stainless Steels: for Knifemaking six years part time and does shows in
Conventional: 440C and 154CM the summer. When I told him I was writ-
Our CPM High Performance: CPM S30V, S60V and S90V ing an article for BLADE®, he intro-
Tool Steels: duced me to Taisto Kuortti, president
Conventional: A2 and D2 and enthusiastic spokesman for the
Our CPM High Performance: CPM 3V and 10V UPS Suomen Puukkoseura—the Knife Asso-
ping Ship MC
nd ciation of Finland. The club claims over
Sizes: Hot rolled sheets: 18-22” wide X 72” long VISA a pted
Thickness: to finish 0.100” up to 0.250” Acce 700 members, many of whom were
easily identifiable at the show by their
Also half sheets, saw cut strips, custom cut pieces
hunting-style vests sporting the associa-
We also carry a full selection of Ground Flat Stock: A2, D2, O1 and S7 tion’s name on the back. Three men—
Kuor tti, Eero Haikala and J.P.
Now in one location to serve you better! Peltonen—star ted the association in
Crucible Call 800-365-1168 or 817-649-2800
FAX: 817-633-8142 1993. They began by having the f irst
Service Centers email: [email protected]
Crucible Service Centers
knife show in the town of Fiskars,
A Division of Crucible Materials Corporation Finland. (Yes, home of that Fiskars, the
1101 Ave. H East
Crucible, the CM logo, CPM, S30V, S60V, S90V, 3V and 10V are
registered trademarks of Crucible Materials Corp., Syracuse, NY. Arlington, TX 76011 cutlery company which originated in
1649 and now owns Gerber.) With a few
more knife enthusiasts, they formed a
club. They later produced a knifemaking
contest and, three years ago, became an
E Dedication To The Performance Blade E officially registered association.
D D Taisto said an appreciation for the

et el limit
puukko is returning thanks to the associa-
tion, local knife shows and for mal
F F schooling offered in knifemaking. He
O

0 S e O teaches knifemaking and has over 1,000

knives. His students range in age from 8

0 o th
W W

1
to 80 and in occupations from barmaids
L
E 2
5 dt
L
E
to surgeons. On his vest hung a mini
Tommi knife. He said he made a knife for

e
R R Finland’s president, Tarja Halonen, and
•
sh • also one for her husband, who was so

pu
charmed with it that Taisto invited him to
R R take his knifemaking course. Taisto also
I I teaches the history of Finnish knives—
V V 2,500 years of it—in his classes, and he
said the Kauhava puukko is the best
E E
known of Finnish knives. He added that
R R there’s a course in the local technical
T T high school where students can appren-
O O tice and then test to become knifemakers,
and this year will produce the first gradu-
N N
6 3/4” Blade length ates of the course.
• • Back in the exhibition hall I met
12” Overall length
W W Jarmo, a knifemaker and chairman of the
Y Y Knife Association of Finland. He’s had
the knife bug for 20 years and has been
O O making knives for 10. He teaches four
M M days a week, about 60-80 students yearly.
I I He wrote a book on knifemaking that’s
N WILLOW BOW RANCH Call Ed to order your copy of “Knife Talk” for
$14.95 + S/H or his video - The Design N used in classes on the subject. Many who
P.O.
P.O. BOX
BOX 1519
1519 •• RIVERTON,
RIVERTON, WYOMING
WYOMING 82501
82501 Construction And Function Of The Using Knife teach knifemaking take his courses.
G 307-856-9815
307-856-9815 (52100 steel) for $45.00 + $1.25 S/H. G At a nearby table, Ar to Liukko

84 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

BLAUG03 5/9/03 2:44 PM Page 26

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FINNISH.qxd 5/9/03 8:13 PM Page 86

to the finnish
to the finnish
J.T. Palikko had some of the most
unusual blades at the Kauhava Knife
Festival. One was a replica of a Viking
sword with impressive flex (right). He
also had the only folding knives the
author saw at the show—primitive-
style friction folders.

the Jar ven-

paa knife
factory and
is four th-
generation
Jarvenpaa.
Today, there
are 15 makers in
Jarvenpaa’s factory
workshop. In its
prime, it employed
100 cutlers. After
World War II, that
number dwindled to
somewhere between
30-60. There have been
three generations
working together at
one time in the
factory, and many of
the workers have
family ties.
Another knife-
maker we met, named
Markku, has been
making knives full
time since 1998. He’s
mostly self-taught but
also has learned from
other makers. He
worked quietly on an intargio handle. horsehead knife. It seems that forges his blades and
(The resulting knife won best handle at Juho Kustaa Lammi and Isakki makes his handles
the show.) Intargio is the inlaying of gold Jarvenpaa, two Kauhava makers and sheaths. He
and silver strips into the wood or birch from the turn of the 20th century, exhibits at a medieval
bark of a handle. Many are familiar with first made a fancy walking cane show and sells many
this style of work from some of Blade with a cast head of a horse for a knives while in
Magazine Cutlery Hall-Of-Famer® Bill Russian off icer. (Jarvenpaa later costume. They are
Moran’s silver-inlaid knives. Arto flattens was involved with the local Jarven- ruggedly elegant and well
silver from old jewelry in a press that paa knife factory, which still oper- made. When we were in
resembles a ringer from an old washing ates today.) The horsehead knife northern Finland, we went to
machine. He polishes the silver, cuts it into remains one of the best-known see his smithy in the seaside
strips and bits with a scissors, and then Finnish cutlery styles. town of Oulu. It’s near a
lays and hammers them into the wood. market with many historic
At another table, a knifemaker named Festival’s Driving Force wooden buildings. His
Rauno car ved decorative birds from The chair person of the Kauhava smithy, basically a log house,
wood. He makes some ver y smooth Knife Festival the first two years of is one of them. The only light
sculptured wooden sheaths and a kuksa its existence, Inkeri Hutala also was
(wooden cup) with a knife in the handle. the driving force behind starting the
One of the few knifemakers who festival in 1999. She became manag- A stacked-birch-bark handle
spoke English at the festival was Kay ing director of Jar venpaa knife boasting a brass bolster with
Vikstrom. He won the show’s award for factory the same year after being intargio inlay highlights
best working knife. His 13-year-old son sales manager for 10 years. It seems Rauno’s custom piece. The 2.25-
won best junior maker in the Fiskars that ’99 also was the 120th anniver- inch blade is forged carbon steel.
competition two years ago. Kay does a sary of Isakki Jarvenpaa, and Inkeri He also makes some very smooth
lot of wrought iron work. He also teaches said she felt a need to celebrate in sculptured wooden sheaths and a
kuksa (wooden cup) with a knife
others and forges his own damascus. some way—thus the birth of the festi- sheathed in the handle.
Kay related the history of the Finnish val. Her mother was also a manager in

86 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

FINNISH.qxd 5/9/03 8:14 PM Page 87

“Arto flattens silver

in a press that SAFARI KIT™ (Knife, Axe & Handle) 3 pcs
resembles a ringer Complete with Leather Sheath
from an old washing (Patent Pending)
Safari Kit™, Safari Accessory Kit™, this is a unit for
machine.” every motor home owner, ATV’er, hunter, camper,
—the author hiker, fisherman, all outdoors men and everyone else
in between. The Safari Kit™ comes with axe
head, hunting blade and a detachable
handle, in a leather sheath.
in it comes from the front door.
Alti Kankaanpaa we already knew Retail $269.98
from doing business with him over the
years, though I had never met him in Safari Accessory Kit™
Optional 5 piece set purchased sepa-
person. He approached me and started rately. Unit consists of a backing plate,
smiling and chatting warmly in Finnish. wood saw, bone/meat saw, boning
blade and fillet blade. The detachable
He and his wife invited us for coffee. It Bone/Meat Saw Blade 5 1/2” handle from the Safari Kit™ is used
was about 11 at night but in Finland in with these blades. Unit is presented in
a leather sheath. Each unit is sold
the summer when the sun never sets, separately. Retail: $118.98
people don’t want to go to bed. Jouni and
I walked the two blocks to Alti’s house. Wood Saw Blade 8 1/2”
While his wife set a Finnish coffee table,
Alti showed us some of his knives.
I first saw Pasi, another local maker, Boning Blade 6”
in the knife competition hammering P.O. Box 730 Chandler, AZ 85224
away on a blade blank. He makes Tel: 480-786-9334 • Fax: 480-786-9338
Fillet Blade 7 1/2” [email protected]
gorgeous Lapp-style knives. He uses lots Backing Plate www.katzknives.com
of reindeer antler and scrimshaw in his
work. He employs salmon skin, which
can resemble snake skin, for his sheaths.
He teaches knifemaking in the winter.
He makes about 100 knives a year and
100-200 blades for other makers. Jouni
bought one of Pasi’s gorgeous sami-style
woman’s-tool-and-jewelry combinations
for me to hang from my belt. It includes
a knife, kuksa, needle case and case for
matches, all decorated in reindeer antler.
Pasi’s smithy was built in the 1920s and
he uses all the tools of the original smith
who built it. The only power tools are
his grinders. His foot-powered bellows
is made of a split-in-half barrel covered
with a leather skin that rose and fell as
he pumped it.
Ilkka and Sari quarry and market
whetstones. They live in the region
where there are natural deposits of the
stone. Over time, it’s formed into a fine-
grained mudstone. For many years there
was an entire industry based on slates
made from the stone cut by hand using a
hammer and wedge. It was exported to
many other parts of the world for both
weapons and tools.
Ilkka brought out a huge scythe and
used the stone to sharpen it, running the
stone back and forth down the length of
3 feet or more of the edge. We tested the
stones on some of our Kellam knives of
different steels and were very impressed
with the results.

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 87

FINNISH.qxd 5/12/03 7:23 AM Page 88

to the finnish
to the finnish
The Altti Kankanpaa piggy-
back package features two
knives in one sheath. Both
pieces have curly birch
handles and forged high-
carbon-steel blades.

THE GREATER OHIO

VALLEY KNIFE SHOW ‘03
November 14th & 15th 2003 at the
Pritchard-Laughlin Civic Center
7033 Glenn Hwy (Old Rt.40) Cambridge,
Ohio 43725
FREE PARKING!
Show Hours:
Admission
Nov. 14th, 12 pm to 6 pm
$5.00 per person
FREE PARKING! Nov. 15th, 9 am to 5 pm
p Food and beverages available
o
p Door prizes and custom knife drawings
o
100+ TABLES CONTAINING
pAntique Knives pTomahawks
pCarvings pScrimshaw
pCustom Knives pMiniature Knives Arto Liukko applies intargio—Finnish for Ilkka uses one of the whetstones made
pManufactured Kniveso silver inlay—to the handle of a knife. The from deposits found near his home to
pKnife making supplieso resulting piece won the award for the best sharpen a 3-foot-long scythe blade.

pand much moreo handle at the Kauhava Knife Festival.

Conveniently located near the I-70 & I-77 BLADE Show Energy love was shared at the festival. I was glad
Interchange in Southeastern Ohio. Take exit I76 off The Kauhava Knife Festival had the excite-
of I-70, turn right at the first light and the Civic Center to be there to share it, too.
is approximately1-mile on the left. It is a beautiful ment and energy of the BLADE Show (for
facility with plenty of free parking along with more on the latter, see the special stories For more information on the knives herein,
restaurants and motels one exit east (exit 178). this issue), but on a smaller scale and with contact Kellam Knives, attn: H. Mars-
For show reservations or more information contact: a Finnish countryside flavor. There was a Kellokoski, Dept. BL8, 479 Greynolds,
KOVAL KNIVES lot of good feeling among the makers and Lantana, FL 33462 (561) 588-3185 or
P.O. BOX 492 • NEW ALBANY, OH 43054 they were all glad to talk to anyone inter- (800) 793-3481, or visit the Kellam booth
(614) 855-0777 ested in their knives. People who make at the BLADE Show.
www.kovalknives.com email: [email protected] knives do it because they love it and that

88 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

937710_BL.qxd 5/12/03 12:04 PM Page 1
WTC.qxd 5/8/03 7:37 PM Page 90

cutlery charity
cutlery charity

By BLADE® staff

The seven handmade knives that will be auctioned later this year, with
all benefits going to the New York Firefighters Burn Unit, are made by,
from top: Pat Crawford, Allen Elishewitz, Gil Hibben, Bob
Dozier, Bob Terzuola, Mel Pardue and Jerry Fisk.
According to Steve Freund, the coordinator
of the project, he already had been
offered $25,000 for the set at
press time. (Point-
Seven photo)

90 BLADE AUGUST 2003

WTC.qxd 5/7/03 10:13 PM Page 91

even world-class custom knifemakers

S have put their artistry to work to

commemorate the lives of the fire-
fighters lost in the 9-11/World Trade Center
Super Seven for the Heroic 343

tragedy, and to benefit the New York Fire-

fighters Burn Unit at New York Presbyter-
ian Hospital Weill Cornell Medical Center.
Each maker worked for almost a year T he special knives fashioned for the
auction to benef it the New York
Firefighters Burn Unit are a handmade
bead-blasted blade;
•A Michael Price-style dagger by
Gil Hibben with an ivory handle sport-
to design and fashion one knife from the
steel of the famous downtown office build- junkie’s delight and include (all knives ing a color-scrimmed scene of firefight-
ings, with all seven pieces displayed in a feature blade steel salvaged from the ers raising Old Glory at the tower site,
custom-designed case. The knives will be Two World Trade Center building, the and, on the reverse, the color-scrimmed
on exhibit in the case in the center display f irst edif ice to fall on 9-11, and the shield of one of the ladder companies;
area of the 22nd Annual BLADE Show inscribed date of “9-11-01”): •A Pat Crawford folder with a
June 13-15 at the Cobb Galleria Centre in •A Bob Dozier ivory Micarta® skeletonized titanium handle and blued
Atlanta. (For more on the show, see the folder with diamond-shaped black blade steel and bolsters;
special stories this issue.) The collection Micarta inlay and a damascus blade •A Mel Pardue locking-liner folder
will be auctioned at a place and time to be forged by Daryl Meier; with a carbon f iber handle, flared
disclosed, with all proceeds going directly •An Allen Elishewitz wood-handle bolster and damascus blade; and;
to the New York Firefighters Burn Unit. folder with a modif ied spear-point •A Jerry Fisk stag-handle “Sendero-
The seven knifemakers—Pat Crawford, blade; style” hunter with mortis-tang construc-
Bob Dozier, Allen Elishewitz, Jerry Fisk, •A Bob Terzuola tactical straight tion and a 343-layer blade—one layer
Gil Hibben, Mel Pardue and Bob knife in the maker’s CQB style, sporting for each f iref ighter who died at the
Terzuola—each created a high-end knife to a green canvas Micarta handle and a World Trade Center on 9-11.
symbolically represent the seven buildings
that fell on 9-11. The knives all have two

All seven knives will be contained in a

cocobolo rosewood chest, custom designed
by Tomway with the skyline of New York City—
including the Twin Towers—etched by Eagle
Creek in the glass lid. (PointSeven photo)

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 91

WTC.qxd 5/7/03 10:13 PM Page 92

cutlery charity
cutlery charity

Some of the makers who participated

in the project took time out during
the East Coast Custom Knife Show.
They are, from left: Bob Terzuola, Bob
Dozier, Allen Elishewitz, Gil Hibben,
and Pat and Wes Crawford. Not
pictured are Mel Pardue and Jerry
Fisk. At right is the man responsible
for conceiving the knife project, New
York City firefighter Keith Kaiser.

things in common: each has the inscrip- of this city.” According to burn unit offi-
tion “9-11-01” on the blade, and each was cials, a plaque in memory of Regenhard
handmade from one of seven 10-pound will be displayed in the unit building.
pieces of steel from Two World Trade Tomway, maker of cocobolo rosewood
Center, the first building to fall. chests for f ine collectibles, custom
The steel was salvaged by Midland designed a display case for the knives with
Beach f iref ighter Keith Kaiser, who the skyline of New York City—including
conceived the project nearly a year ago to the Twin Towers—etched in the glass lid.
honor the lives lost, among them Kaiser’s Steve Freund, owner of Tomway, is over-
close friend and fellow firefighter, Christ- seeing the charitable project. He said that
ian Regenhard, a probationary firefighter an offer of $25,000 already has been made
assigned to Ladder Company 131 in for the set of knives. However, the knives
Brooklyn. Sadly, Regenhard was killed and display case will be auctioned to the
when one of the buildings collapsed on his public later this year.
fire truck. “These knives are made by seven of the
world’s finest knifemakers whose other
creations can sell upwards of $10,000 or
“Each was hand- more, some of which are owned by Holly-
wood celebrities and foreign dignitaries,”
made from one of Freund noted. “We’re hoping that the
months of effort that went into these knives
seven 10-pound will bring a substantial donation to the
New York Firefighters Burn Unit.”
pieces of steel The date and venue for the auction will
be announced at the Web site www.ecck-
from Two World show.com.
Trade Center.” UPS donated its services, the BLADE and
—the author East Coast Custom Knife shows donated
display space, and PointSeven donated the
photography for this project. For more
“Christian was an avid knife collector information contact Tomway, attn: S.
and always carried his favorite knife every- Freund, Dept. BL8, 1646 Tichenor, Atlanta,
where he went,” Kaiser said. “This seemed GA 30338 (888) 486-6929 or (770) 393-
like a unique and lasting way to honor his 8349 www.tomway.com or, if you attend
memory and raise money for the New York the BLADE Show, visit Freund at table
Firefighters Burn Unit, a facility that has 25K.
been profoundly helpful to the firefighters

92 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

soldering.qxd 5/7/03 10:22 PM Page 93

how-to
how-to

In part two, the author

examines cleaning the
joint and jigging, as
well as the application
and distribution of heat

With your Dremel or Foredom hand By Bill Herndon

grinder and using the thin abrasive
discs, abrade the area of the joint. Cut
BLADE® correspondent
several channels—or solder irrigation
canals—on the tang from above the
guard into the joint. You may also cut
canals on the blade side of the guard—
as shown here—but only where the
shoulders of the blade cover the guard’s
face. (Herndon photo)

leaning the joint is very

C important but not diffi-

cult. You may sand, wire
brush, scrape or grind the
solder area. Clean both the
guard and the slot with a cotton
swab, as well as the blade in the
area to be joined. Wipe with a
petroleum-type solvent, which will
probably leave a film of oil. Wash with
a spray of high-strength liquid detergent,
rinse with water and dry.
With your Dremel or Foredom hand
grinder and using the thin abrasive discs,
abrade the area of the joint. Cut several chan-
nels—or solder irrigation canals—on the
tang from above the guard into the joint. Cut
the canals so that they lead into all areas of
the joint. The canals should be above the
guard on the tang and lead into the joint but
not below it. They shouldn’t be visible when

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 93

soldering.qxd 5/12/03 1:24 PM Page 94

overdo it! If your guard slot is oversized

how-to
how-to
and sloppy and the void hasn’t been filled
with shim stock, the molten solder will run
onto the blade.

Heat Application & Distribution

Heat application and distribution are the
most critical parts of a successful solder
joint. Remember: molten solder will travel
to the hottest point.
Light the propane torch and warm the
guard and blade from the blade side until
the liquid of the flux boils away. Keep the
Build a soldering jig from any metal but aluminum. The jig will give you access to flame moving around the work but linger
all sides of the solder joint. WARNING: Always be aware of the blade tip, if and on the thicker areas. Reposition any solder
when it is exposed as you work on the knife. (Herndon photo) bits that have moved due to the boiling
flux. Move the torch to the tang and posi-
you solder the guard in place and attach knife with a long, pointed blade; pliers to tion the flame to touch only the tang and
the handle to the knife. You can cut canals handle the hot jig; a spray bottle of water not the solder. Get the tang hot but don’t
on the blade-side face of the guard but only for wash and quick cool; small wire melt the solder. The whole joint must be
where the shoulders of the blade cover the cutters; propane torch and a striker to light evenly heated but the solder must not have
guard’s face. WARNING: Wear safety it; and a clean rag and paper towels. melted yet.
glasses! Wipe the abraded areas down with Keep your hands away from the clean Return to the blade side and apply the
the liquid flux using a clean cloth, dry and joint area and place the guard on the knife. center inner flame point to the seam in the
set the guard and blade aside. Wipe the joint with flux and dry—yes, joint, moving it all around the blade and
Build a soldering jig from any metal again! Slip the guard on the tang. Slip the guard. Linger on the thick sections of the
but aluminum. The jig’s two long screws tang through the hole in the jig 1 inch or joint. The intent is to get an even heat.
will push the guard down tight against the more above the tang and secure it in place However, here the solder has to travel the
shoulders of the blade and hold the guard with the locking bolt. Turn the long screws farthest or the metal is thickest, so a little
while you solder. The jig will give you down tight against the guard so they’re more heat is needed. When the solder
access to all sides of the solder joint. clear of the hole in the guard. Wrap the melts, take the heat off immediately! The
Create a work space near your solder- bottom third of the blade with a damp rag tang, guard and blade at the joint must be
ing vise and lay out your tools, which and clamp it in the vise point down and equally hot or the solder may not stick.
should include a low-temperature solder; a tang up. The idea is to let the solder Bend way down and look at the seam
small, shallow container—a plastic jar lid through the joint toward the blade, but not on the blade side of the guard to see if the
will do—containing a quarter inch of on it. solder has flowed through to form a nice,
liquid flux; long tweezers; an Exacto® Cut a number of 1/16-to-1/4-inch clean, small fillet. You may see voids, gaps
lengths of solder and put them in the shal- or spots to which the solder hasn’t adhered.
low container containing the flux. Using Take the Exacto knife, dip its point in the
the tweezers, place the pieces of solder flux and draw the point along the corner of
around the tang where it comes through on the seam. The solder will follow the point
the back side of the guard. The flux carried and f ill the seam. Work all around the
on the solder will carry over into the joint. seam. If the solder hardens, warm that
The flux also will allow you to stick little area—briefly—until the solder flows.
pieces of solder to the tang above those Don’t over heat! When the solder seam is
resting on the guard around the tang. You even and smooth, spray the area with water
can also insert the bits of solder between just enough to harden the solder. Don’t
the sides of the tang and the hole in the cool the whole joint!
guard. Enough carry-over flux will have Using the pliers, remove the knife from
f illed the joint and probably will run the vise on the jig. Place the tang in the
through the joint and onto the blade. Wipe vise and lock it down with the blade point
it clean and dry. up. WARNING: Be extremely careful with
Place solder bits completely around the the blade in the vise in the point-up posi-
tang and the slot in the guard. Don’t tion! Spray the
joint and seam
The author’s illustration of the jig assem- and wipe them
bly and knife includes: 1) the knife blade; clean, and inspect
2) the guard; 3) a jig of 3/8x2x3-inch for voids.
steel; 4) a lock bolt 5/16x18x1 1/2 inches A small void
long; and 5 & 6) screws 1/4x20 inches can be repaired
and 3 1/2 to 4 inches long. by local heating
until the solder
flows, and then
using the point of
the Exacto knife
to drag the solder
into the void. The
large void may
require that you
place a small bit
of solder over it.
Heat the solder to
a molten state and
drag it into the
void with the

94 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

soldering.qxd 5/7/03 10:22 PM Page 95

Slip the tang

through the hole
in the jig 1 inch
The new “Paul® Pocket Knife”
or more and A turning point in the evolution
secure it in of knife design! Personalization Area
place with the
locking bolt.
Turn the long
screws down “Engraved Stainless”
tight against the Paul® Pocket Knife
guard so they’re
clear of the hole
in the guard.
Wrap the bottom
third of the
blade with a
damp rag and
clamp it in the
Ivory Micarta® Rose-Wood Burl-Wood Wine Micarta®
vise point down
and tang up. • One handed opening and closing This new pocket sized Paul Knife is the perfect gentleman’s knife
(Herndon photo) • Blade locks open and closed in design, fit, finish and function. This knife is built to tighter toler-
• Precision fit, function & finish ances than any other production folding knife in the world. The
point of the Exacto • All stainless steel construction result is watch-like precision in function and finish that is a won-
knife. • The smallest Paul® Knife ever built der to see, feel and appreciate for a lifetime. The Paul® Pocket
This method • Made in the USA Knife is offered in many handle materials and decorative configu-
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the tip of the proud to bring you this fine new high precision folding knife.
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the solder hasn’t Blade Material: High Carbon stainless steel; Handle & Hardware:
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the flux will clean and molten solder will See us at the Blade Show
adhere to the scratched area in the bad 17400 SW Upper Boones Ferry Road, Suite 240, Portland, OR 97224 www.lonewolfknives.com
spot.

Next time, the author concludes with a

discussion of how to complete the pommel
assembly, and tips on a successfully

Marzitelli 19929 35A Avenue

bonded joint and sequence soldering and
brazing.
langley, B.C. Canada V3A 2R1
Phone/Fax (604) 532-8899
Look at the seam on the blade side of
the guard to see if the solder has
flowed through to form a nice, clean,
Custom Knives
small fillet. You may see voids, gaps
or spots to which the solder hasn’t
adhered. Take the Exacto® knife, dip
its point in the flux and draw the point
along the seam. (Herndon photo) COME MEET THE GANG
AT THE BLADE SHOW
TABLE NO. 20B

www.marzknives.com
AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 95
CALENDAR.qxd 5/9/03 9:07 PM Page 2

show calendar
show calendar
Note: Shows marked with an asterisk (*) have knives as the main focus. Events marked with two asterisks
are knifemaking instructionals/seminars, knife-throwing competitions, auctions, or other similar events.
BLADE’s® “Show Calendar” also can be seen on BLADE’s Web site at www.blademag.com.

M A Y J U L Y S E P T E M B E R
May 31-June 1 Dover, OH 15th Annual West- July 11-13 Orlando, FL Knifemakers’ Guild Sept. 5-6 Johannesburg, South Africa Knife-
ern Reserve Cutlery Association Invitational Show, Marriott’s Orlando World Center. Contact makers’ Guild of Southern Africa Show, Gold
Knife Expo. Contact D. Musgrave, Dept. BL7, Al Pendray, Dept. BL7, 13950 NE 20th, Willis- Reef City Theme Park. Contact the show chair-
POB 355, Dover, OH 44622 (330) 745-4242 ton, FL 32696 (352) 528-6124.* man 27 13 661 1654
[email protected], http://wrca-oh.com.* [email protected], www.kgsa.co.za.*
July 16-18 El Cajon, CA Buck Collectors Club
J U N E 15th Anniversary Celebration, Buck Knives, Inc. Sept. 6-7 Winston-Salem, NC Southeastern
Contact Larry Oden, Dept. BL7, 1112 Veach’s, Custom Knife Show, Benton Convention Center
June 5-7 Pigeon Forge, TN Parkers’ Greatest Peru, IN 46970 [email protected].** Ballroom. Contact Tommy McNabb, Dept. BL7,
Knife Show On Earth, Grand Hotel Convention 4015 Brownsboro, Winston-Salem, NC 27106
Center. Contact Parker’s Knife Collector July 18-20 Missoula, MT 8th Annual Montana (336) 759-0640 [email protected].*
Service, attn: J. Parker, Dept. BL7, POB 23522, Knifemakers Association Show, Holiday Inn
Chattanooga, TN 37422 (423) 892-0448.* Parkside. Contact Darlene Weinand, Dept. BL7, Sept. 12-14 Oak Lawn, IL 24th Annual AECA
14440 Harpers Bridge, Missoula, MT 59808 Knife Show, Oak Lawn Community Pavilion.
June 13-15 Marietta, GA 22nd Annual (406) 543-0845.* Contact Louis Jamison or Ernie at (800) 785-
BLADE Show & International Cutlery Fair, 9830 or (219) 844-1911 LJamison@interac-
Cobb Galleria Centre, I-285 & US 41, one exit July 25-26 Titusville, PA 3rd Annual Queen cess.com or www.aeca-knifeclub.com.*
off I-75 across from the Cumberland Mall, adja- Cutlery Collectors Show, C.A.C. Hall. Contact
cent to the Renaissance Waverly Hotel. The the Queen Cutlery Collectors, Dept. BL7, POB Sept. 12-14 Mesquite, TX Knives Illustrated
world’s largest combined show of handmade, 109, Titusville, PA 16354 or Jennie Moore Spirit of Steel Show, Mesquite Convention
antique & factory knives. Over 570 tables and (Queen) (814) 827-3673 or Howard Drake (814) Center. Contact Bruce Voyles, Dept. BL8, POB
90 factory booths. Join the world’s greatest 827-6923.* 22007, Chattanooga, TN 37422
national and international knifemakers, cutlery www.jbrucevoyles.com.*
manufacturers, collectors, collections and knife July 26-27 Auckland, New Zealand Auckland
lovers. Site of the Blade Magazine 2003 Knife- Knife Show, Parnell Community Center. Sept. 19-21 Ontario, CA NEW SITE! BLADE
Of-The-Year Awards® for factory knives, points Contact Brent Sandow 09 537-4166 Show West, Ontario Convention Center. Site of
for the 2003 BLADEhandmade™ Awards, [email protected].* the 2003 BLADEhandmade™ Awards, best in
Blade Magazine Cutlery Hall-Of-Fame induc- handmade, factory, antique and military knives,
tion(s) & much more. Site of the annual ABS June 27-29 Springfield, MO NKCA Spring- knife collections, seminars and much more.
meeting & special Knifemakers’ Guild section. field Knife Show, Ozark Empire Fairgrounds E- Contact BLADE Show West, 700 E. State, Iola,
Seminars include ABS forging and cutting plex. Contact NKCA business off ice (423) WI 54990-0001 (877) 746-9757, Mary Lutz,
demos, how to throw knives and tomahawks & 892-5007.* ext. 313, fax (715) 445-4087
many others. Contact BLADE Magazine®, c/o [email protected].*
Krause Publications, 700 E. State, Iola, WI A U G U S T
54945 (715) 445-2214 Sept. 19-21 Louisville, KY NKCA Louisville
[email protected].* Aug. 1-3 Austin, TX 5th Annual Central Texas Fall Knife Show. Contact NKCA, Dept. BL7,
Knife Show, Holiday Inn South. Contact Chris POB 21070, Chattanooga, TN 37424 (423) 892-
June 13-14 Escanaba, MI 3rd Annual Gun, Carlson, Dept. BL7, 108 Johnson Cove, Hutto, 5007.*
Knife and Sporting Show, co-sponsored by the TX 78634.*
Marble Plus Knife Club, Upper Peninsula State Sept. 20 Charlestown, RI Cove Cutlery Ltd.
Fairgrounds. Contact Jim Decremer (906) 474- Aug. 8-10 Lexington, KY Central Kentucky 7th Annual Custom Knife Show, junction of Rt.
6774. Knife Club Show, Continental Inn. Contact 1 and 216. Contact Ron (401) 322-1311
CKKC, Dept. BL7, POB 55049, Lexington, KY www.covecutlery.com.*
June 20-22 Stamford, CT Northeast Cutlery 40555 (502) 863-1840.*
Collectors Association Show, Sheraton Hotel.
Contact Caroline Levine (978) 454-5027.* Aug. 15-17 Denver, CO 11th Annual Profes-
sional Knifemakers Association Show, Holiday To ensure timely publication of your knife
June 21-22 Anchorage, AK Midnight Sun Inn-DIA. Contact Jason King (785) 449-2638 show in the “Show Calendar,” BLADE®
Custom Knife Show. Location and contact info [email protected].* requests that you send all pertinent infor-
n/a at press time.* mation concerning your show in written
Aug 16-17 Salem, OR Great Northwest Knife
June 27-28 Noblesville, IN Indiana Knife Show, The Grand Ballroom. Contact Kim (800)
form—dates, locations, etc.—at least three
Collectors Knife Show, Noblesville Fairgrounds. 611-8849 [email protected].* months before the show takes place to
Contact Ed Etchason (317) 835-7487.* Krause Publications, attn: J. Kertzman,
Aug. 22-23 Winston-Salem, NC Tar Heel 700 E. State St., Iola, WI 54945 (715) 445-
June 27-29 Springfield, MO NKCA Spring- Cutlery Club Show, the Elks Lodge. Contact 2214 fax (715) 445-4087. BLADE depends
field, Missouri Knife Show. Contact NKCA, George Manuel, Dept. BL7, 3682 Bowens, on the shows themselves for prompt and
Dept. BL7, POB 21070, Chattanooga, TN 37424 Tobaccoville, NC 27050 (336) 924-6876.* accurate information.
(423) 892-5007.*

96 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

939350_BL.qxd 5/12/03 5:53 PM Page 1

1 Stop Knife Shop Damascus New Zealand Martin Knives

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[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
2thehilt.com Dantes Knifeworks Moore Cutlery
2thehilt.com www.DantesKnife.com www.moorecutlery.com
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
888 KNIVES R US Dave Ellis - “CA. 1st ABS M.S.” Museum Replicas
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A.G. Russell Knives, Inc. Don Cowles Pardue Knives
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Benchmark/National Knife Distributors www.grecoknives.com www.darrelralph.com
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Best Knives www.erniesknives.com Handcrafted Knives
www.bestknives.com [email protected] www.rayrogers.com
[email protected] Guild Knives - Selling [email protected]
Blade Art Inc. Custom Collection, Don Guild S4 Supply
www.bladeart.com www.guildknives.com www.s4supply.com
[email protected] [email protected]
Held’s Discount Knives
BladeForums.com www.pumaknives.com SharkBiteKnives
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Bladegallery.com Top Quality Collection - Walt Sharper Things
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[email protected] [email protected]
Independent Knife and Novelty
Blades International Online Magazine independentknife.com Spartan Cutlery
www.bladesinternational.com [email protected] www.knivescentral.com
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Knife Center of the Internet Stout Stuff
Bob Neal Custom Knives www.knifecenter.com
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[email protected] [email protected]
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The Knife Guy Tomahawks And Knives
Bubba Knives www.theswitchblade.com
www.bubbaknives.com custom made
[email protected] www.tomahawksbyedgar.com
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Knife Mart Triple Aught Design
Busse Combat Knife Company www.knifemart.com
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[email protected] [email protected]
[email protected]
Knife Outlet True North Knives
C.A.S. lberia www.knifeoutlet.com www.truenorthknives.com
www.casiberia.com [email protected] [email protected]
[email protected]
Knife Professional, The Universal Agencies, Inc. (U.A.I.)
CBA Knives www.knifepro.com www.knifesupplies.com
www.cbaknives.com [email protected] [email protected]
[email protected]
KnifeShows.com Valor Corporation
Circle P Knives www.knifeshows.com www.Valorcorp.com
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Little Hen Knives Vinny’s Knives
Close Quarters Combatives www.littlehenknives.com www.vinnysknives.com
Tactical Knives [email protected] [email protected]
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[email protected] Lone Wolf Knives Willy B. Custom Sticks/Picks
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Custom Leather Knife Sheaths [email protected] [email protected]
www.customsheaths.com Daniel Winkler Master Bladesmith
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www.mackrill.co.za www.winklerknives.com
cuttingedge.com [email protected] [email protected]
www.cuttingedge.com Yukon Bay
[email protected] Mantis Swords
www.mantisswords.com www.yukonbay.com
[email protected] [email protected]
NEXT.qxd 5/12/03 4:32 PM Page 2

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98 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

BLAUG03 5/9/03 7:36 PM Page 7

Wharncliff Whittler
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AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 99
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E-Mail Address: [email protected]
54 So. Holt Hill www.carlsonknives.com Tel: 603-588-2765
Antrim, NH 03440 [email protected] Fax: 603-588-4223 H A L P E R N T I TA N I U M , I N C
P.O. Box 214, Three Rivers, MA 01080

100 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

BLAUG03 5/8/03 7:33 AM Page 9

...WHEN IT HITS THE FAN...YOU ONLY HAVE TIME

TO GRAB ONE THING...MAKE SURE ITS AN

ARMAGEDDON ™
.70¢ ea.
.70¢ ea.
$21.00
$1.15 ea.
$1.40 ea. P
S

.
T. O
I
LD
$1.70 ea.

A
2˝ x 72˝

A
IN

IG
R

US
ES
D
E
AC
TR

E
D
$1.20 ea.

LA
B
$2.90 ea. “A JOINT TRACE RINALDI TOPS knives

+
ADVENTURE”
BLADE DESIGN T. O . P S

COMBINED
HANDCRAFTED
EXCELLENCE
SPECIFICATIONS:
Blade Length - 10 5/8” TOPS knives
101% Cutting Edge - 10”
Tactical-OPS USA
O/A Length - 16 1/2” Flat Ground
MADE IN Thickness - 1/4” P. O. Box 2544
USA Idaho Falls, ID 83403

0
Blade Color - Black Traction Coating

H 9.0
Steel - 1095 High Carbon Alloy - Rc 58 Phone:(208) 542-0113

S& 9
Handle - Black Linen Micarta®
+ : $2
FAX: (208) 552-2945
Sheath - Kydex heavy duty LBE
Internet: www.topsknives.com
e
(Load Bearing Equip.) fitting
ic
Pr

Mfg. - Handcrafted in the USA ...BORN IN THE USA...

shipping & handling $6.95 ™

...IT WILL GET YOU TO HELL & BACK...

LONE STAR WHOLESALE

G R E AT P R I C E S
No. 3 Five Inch
M.S.A. Co. Safety Hunting Knife
2002 Reproduction

DEALERS ONLY 806-356-9540 Resale Certificate or FFL Required

MOST MAJOR BRANDS

BOWIE CORPORATION Lone Star Wholesale, PO BOX 587,
2036 13th Street, Menominee, MI 49858
www.bowiecorporation.com Amarillo, TX 79105 FAX 806-359-1603.
ph: 906.864.3922 • fax: 906.864.3924 All FAX Correspondence, please include
Toll Free: 877-622-2397
Tax info, and phone number.

CUSTOM STEEL STAMPS

To proudly mark your knives. Made
to order from your logo, trademark
or special design. Quality steel
stamps at competitive prices.
• Set Prices — no quotes Ask
About
necessary on most stamps Our
• Personalized Service Stamping
Press
• Brochure $1
HARPER MFG.
Stamp and Die
3050 Westwood Dr. #B-5
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 735-8467 • FAX (702) 735-6895
1-800-776-8407
We accept

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 101

BLAUG03 5/12/03 4:18 PM Page 8

That’s Right....
A DOUBLE HOLLOWGRINDER!
For more information on this
incredible product,
please contact:
The Iceman
Bill McCann
209 7th Ave.
Pleasant Grove, AL 35127
205-744-0383
Demonstrations by appointment only

Stanley Chan Photo

Burt Foster
HANDMADE
K N I V E S

Winner
“Best Utility/Hunter”
Knife Expo ’03

ABS Journeyman Smith

21275 Dickinson Road

Moreno Valley, CA 92557
w w w. b u r t f o s t e r. c om 909.328.1213

Custom
Boxes &
Displays

Lawrence E. McLean
(714) 848-5779
[email protected]

-Stingray by Adam Unlimited-

Steven Rapp
Full-Time Maker
Color Catalog $3.00

7273 S. 245 E
Midvale, Utah 84047
801-567-9553

102 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

BLAUG03 5/8/03 7:33 AM Page 11

Koval Knives See us at the

Blade Show
The Finest in Knifemaking Equipment & Supplies For Over 25 Years! Tables
9 & 10-G-J
THE 605 SPECIAL
DESIGNED BY DARREL RALPH
KIT INCLUDES:
Right hand and left hand side plates with bolsters attached which are reamed
and counterbored for the pivot pin assembly. The spring lock is cut and set with
ball bearing in place. AUS8 high carbon drop point stainless steel blade
approximately 1/8” thick, 3-1/2” long blade is ready to be finished. 55˚ to 58˚
Rockwell, all screws have high quality Torx head drives, thumb studs, standoffs,
clip and all hardware. Handles not included; this gives you the option to choose
your favorite.
No. 605DP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$36.95 ea
DARREL DESIGNED A SPECIAL UPGRADE KIT FOR THE 605 SPECIAL
All items included in the Standard Kit, plus pre-machined handles with screw
holes drilled and countersink ready to be finished with a black micarta back
spacer pre-drilled to fit knife.
No. 605UG-1 (Black/green linen) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$49.95 ea
No. 605UG-2 (Black G10) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$49.95 ea

The Mini 605 Special

THE LATEST DESIGN BY DARREL RALPH
A smaller version of the highly popular 605 Special.
ORDER TODAY! KIT INCLUDES:
1-800-556-4837 The same as the 605 Special with the exception of: Blade length is 2.5”,
For technical advice, thickness is .100, overall length is 5-3/4” and has a glass beaded satin finish.
please call 614-855-0777 No. M605DP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$34.95 ea
UPGRADE KIT FOR THE Mini 605 SPECIAL
The Finest in Knifemaking Equipment & Supplies All items included in the Standard Kit, plus pre-machined handles with screw
For Over 25 Years! holes drilled and countersink ready to be finished with a black micarta back
spacer pre-drilled to fit knife. It is highly recommended that you use gloves and
Visit our Showroom at: 5819 Zarley St., New Albany, Ohio a respirator when working with these materials.
Or Visit us online at:
No. M605-UG-5 (Antique Gold) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$47.95 ea
www.kovalknives.com • email: [email protected]
No. M605-UG-2 (Black G10) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$47.95 ea
For a complete Catalog of knifemaking supplies send $4.00 to: No. M605-UG-3 Red Linen (Maroon) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$47.95 ea
Koval Knives • P.O. Box 492 • New Albany, OH 43054 No. M605-UG-4 (Carbon Fiber) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$57.95 ea

FREE KNIFE CATALOG

To place an order or request a FREE catalog

of knives, call toll-free: 800.835.6433 or
write to: Magnum USA,1550 Balsam St.
Lakewood, CO 80214-5917 NO. 674, INAGUCHI-CHO, SEKI-CITY,
GIFU-PREF, 501-3932 JAPAN.
Model BO007 TEL 81-575-22-8892 FAX 81-575-24-1895
E-mail: [email protected]
$23.95 http://www.setocut.co.jp/

Custom
Balisongs
Many configurations available
www.twentynineknives.com
617-492-0451
PMB 134
One Kendall Square
Building 600
Cambridge, MA 02139

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 103

BLAUG03 5/12/03 4:31 PM Page 10

Finest Quality
T HE PASAYTEN ™
Superior Service
LITE TRAVELLER Popular Blade Material
440C, 440V, ATS-34, 154 CM,
BG-42, 52100, D-2, 0-1, A-2, 1084,
15N20, Nickel 200, Damascus.
Guard Bolster & Liners
304, 416, 410, Nickel Silver, Titanium,
SPECIFICATIONS:
Blade Length - 5 1/4”
Brass, Copper and Aluminum.
Cutting Edge - 4 7/8” Handle Material
O/A Length - 10” Thickness - 1/8”
Blade Color - Tactical Gray Colored G-10, Carbon Fiber, Colored
Steel - 154CM - CRYO Treated
Rc 58-60 Heat Treated 2X
Phenolics, Natural Woods,
Handle - Black Linen Micarta® Dymondwood®, Horn, Bone and
Sheath - Kydex heavy duty LBE
Reconstructed Stone.
“A JOINT ADVENTURE” Revolving Spring Steel Clip
R
LE

Pocket Knife Supplies

Steven Dick-Designer
EL
AV
TR

Steel Balls, Washers, Thumbbobs, 6

TE

(Airborne Rangers, Viet Nam

LI

T. O . P S
- Forester - Field Tester Spline and Hex Screws, Clips, Mokume,
& Editor, Tactical Knives)
Mosaic Bolsters and Pivot Pins.
0
H 9.0

and Machinery
S& 7
+ : $1

TOPS TOPS knives Heat Treat Supplies, Tools, Handle Bolts,

e

KNIVES
ic
Pr

Tactical-OPS USA Polishing Supplies, Engraving Supplies,

101% P. O. Box 2544 Abrasive Belts, Blades, Books & Videos.
MADE IN
Idaho Falls, ID 83403
COMBINED Phone:(208) 542-0113 Catalogs $5.00 U.S.A.
USA FAX: (208) 552-2945
HANDCRAFTED * $8.00 outside U.S.A.
EXCELLENCE Internet: www.topsknives.com
...BORN IN THE USA... SHEFFIELD KNIFEMAKERS
SUPPLY INC.
...FROM THE CAMP TO THE MOUNTAIN TOP P.O. Box 741107, Orange City, FL 32774-1107
Phone: 386-775-6453 • Fax: 386-774-5754
...WE’LL BE THERE... Web: http://www.sheffieldsupply.com
E-mail: [email protected]

Third Reich Depot

Dealer and Collector in SS

Sunfish Forge
See Me At Brant Murphy
The Blade Don Hanson III Insignia
For Lists: send $5 to:
Uniforms
Show Table P.O. Box 455
P.O. Box 13 Medals Conifer, CO 80433 Headgear
20-M Success, MO 65570 Documents Daggers

573-674-3045 303-816-4888
www.thirdreichdepot.com

TRU HONE
KNIFE SHARPENER
The Tru Hone Knife
Sharpener gives you a per-
fectly sharpened knife in a
fraction of the time
required by old-fash-
ioned methods. It sharpens both bevels of a knife
Hoffman Photo
blade simultaneously, resulting in equal bevels and
precision sharpness in less than a minute. The
Tru Hone can easily be adjusted to different angles
allowing you to tailor your knives for any type of
cutting operation. Its heavy duty stainless steel
construction and 1/2 hp motor means you will get
7750 Matthews-Mint Hill Road years of maintenance free knife sharpening.

Mint Hill, NC 28227 TRU HONE CORP.

704-545-2929 1721 NE 19th Ave. • Ocala, FL 34470 USA
1-800-237-4663
email: [email protected] online: www.scotiametalwork.com (352) 622-1213 • FAX (352) 622-9180

104 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

BLAUG03 5/12/03 10:52 AM Page 13

BOYE KNIVES
Revolutionary cobalt blades cut tough
hi-tech line or net fast and clean

• Outrageous performance cutting

Kevlar, Spectra, Sta-Set, poly, hemp,
nylon, mono, etc.
• Will not rust in seawater - ever!
• Compass safe
Hand ground 3“ dentritic cobalt blade
Lightweight (2 oz) • One hand open/close
No slip grip • Flat carry • Titanium clip
Removable blade • Sharpens fast Five ABS Knives to be Auctioned
before the BLADE SHOW at
Rated #1 Sailor’s Knife by
Practical Sailor
11:30 AM ON FRIDAY, 13 JUNE 2003
IN ROOM 103 OF ATLANTA’S COBB GALLERIA CENTRE
$99.00 for pointed or sheepsfoot
VIEWING AT 10:30 AM
(800) 853-1617
Auction Items
www.boyeknives.com - Director’s Knife by W F Moran & Board Masters - TOMB Knife by James Walker
100% Made in USA • Moneyback Guarantee - Journeyman Knife by Terry Vandeventer - Master Knife by Don Fogg
Since 1971 - Master Folder by Tim Hancock

MICHAEL
VAG N I N O
Custom Knife Maker

ABS Journeyman Smith

Forged Fixed • Immediate Payment
Blades and • No Collection Too Large Or Too Small
Folders •A Fair And Reputable Dealer For Over 20 Years.
Visa &
Mastercard Antique/Commemorative/Custom
Accepted

559.528.2800 Blue Ridge Knives

PO Box 67
166 Adwolfe Rd. • Dept BL • Marion, VA 24354
Visalia.CA.93279 Phone 276-783-6143 • Fax 276-783-9298
www.blueridgeknives.net
M V K N I V E S . C O M

BOWIES
FOR SALE ---- ALL MINT
LifeKnives
LifeKnives™
A Rare Opportunity!
Roger Green
Harvey Dean - Jerry Fisk
See Us At
E.J. Hendrickson The Blade
Show Phone:
- plus many more - 508-376-8162
Color photos Knife Jewelry to E-mail:
(We take consignments) Cut through [email protected]
Life’s Challenges Fax: 508 376-8081
Knifemasters Custom Knives Contact
Contact us
us for
for the
the name of a store
and Achieve
203-226-5211 fax: 203-226-5312 Excellence selling
selling LifeKnives near you

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 105

BLAUG03 5/9/03 2:44 PM Page 12

Visit us at
www.plazacutlery.com

All of our custom

Knives, Randall, Chris
Phone Orders Welcome! Reeves, William Henry
Plaza Cutlery & other rare knives
South Coast Plaza We accept MasterCard, VISA, &
American Express. Shipping by UPS. are updated daily.
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
714-549-3932 www.plazacutlery.com

ALL NEW SANDING BELTS FOR SHARPENING

Add 10% to Zirc prices for Ceramic belts.
WEBSITE!
SIZE A.O. ZIRCONIUM S.C.
BROWN BLUE BLACK
1”x30” .75 ea 1.50 ea 1.00 ea
1”x42” .75 1.65 1.25
2”x48”/2”x42” 1.20 2.50 1.80
2”x60” 1.50 2.80 2.25
2”x72” 1.80 3.50 2.50
2”x90” 2.25 4.50 3.50
2”x132” 3.00 6.00 4.50
3”x132” 4.50 7.50 6.50
4”x36” 1.50 3.50 2.50
4”x132” 6.00 9.00 8.50
6”x48” 3.50 6.00 4.00
BLACK SIL. CARBIDE WATERPROOF
9”x11” Sheets $28.00/100 220-2500 Grit
5 1/2”x9 1/2” Sheets $14.00/50 240-2000 Grit
CERAMIC BELTS - NORTON “SG”/CARBO “MEDALLIST®”
NORTON® BLUE “NORZON” ZIRCONIA, CORK BELTS
COTTON BUFFING WHEELS & POLISHING COMPOUNDS
DISCS, FLAP WHEELS, SHOP ROLLS
Founding member Photo is of a Chris Reeves Sebenza, RED HILL CORP., P.O. BOX 4234, GETTYSBURG, PA 17325
NICA 3 William Henry Limited Edition Knives, Wayne Watanabe Neck Knife $6.00 S&H
(National Independent
Cutlery Association)
& a Richard Rogers English slip joint! (800) 822-4003 Free 48p.
All Available at the time we placed the ad! www.supergrit.com Catalog

HOLLOW GRINDING
The Perfigo (“To Pierce Through”) MADE EASY
Another Great Collaboration from Pat and Wes Crawford and Bob Kasper

This is a full size (4 1/2” blade) innovative self-defense knife with all the latest features you like in
a sophisticated combat knife. 154CM blade, titanium handles, new belt stud which changes to a
pocket clip, bronze washer, thumb opener and a recessed blade lock. Light, strong and reliable. All
bead blasted, $400.00. Stain blade, $425.00. Contact: Lowell Snoddy
Reba’s Enterprises
Crawford Knives • 205 N. Center Drive • West Memphis, Arkansas 72301 419 Warner Street, NW
(870) 732-2452 • www.crawfordknives.com Huntsville, AL 35805 (256) 837-0308

Tops Edmund Davidson

Tactical-Ops Knives The Integral
William Henry Knives
Benchmade Knives
Navy Seal Watches BG-42
Steel
Meerdink Max’s
Custom Knives Crooked
Skinner

J.T.’s Knife Shop

264 East Main Street Edmund Davidson
Port Jervis, NY 12771 3345 Va. Ave., Goshen, VA 24439
(845) 856-6904 Phone: 540-997-5651
www.edmunddavidson.com
www.jtknives.com Catalog: $2.00

106 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

BLAUG03 5/9/03 2:45 PM Page 15

The Operator’s Edge

Blacksmithing & Metalworkers

TOOLS - EQUIPMENT - SUPPLIES
T H E
L ANCERO
“A JOINT ADVENTURE”
™

100 Daniel Ridge Road COMBINED HANDCRAFTED EXCELLENCE

Candler, NC 28715
(828) 667-8868 S imonich TOPS
(828) 665-1988 K nives LLC knives
Fax: (828) 665-8303 T. O . P S

E-mail: [email protected]
www.kayneandson.com
We carry the world’s finest blacksmith’s
tools at affordable prices.
BIG BLU BLU SPECIFICATIONS:
“Air CRUSHER Blade Color - Black Traction Coating
Hammer” Tomahawk Drifts “Rolling Steel - 1095 High Carbon Alloy

01
Rc 58-60

0
...Handles by Simonich

F-
Mill” Handles - G-10 Gunners Grip™
Guillotines Sheath - Ballistic Nylon ...Blade by TOPS
w/Kydex Liner ...Design by Sim/TOPS
Blade Length - 6.5”
Actual Cutting Edge - 6.0”
PEDDINGHAUS O/L Length - 11.75
Thickness - 1/4”
2 HORNED Serial Numbered SIMONICH TOPS knives
ANVILS
KNIVES LLC Tactical-OPS USA
P. O. Box 2544
0 0 Box 278
9. Idaho Falls, ID 83403
22 H
Clancy, MT 59634 Phone:(208) 542-0113
e : $ S& Phone: (406) 933-9151 FAX: (208) 552-2945
ric +
FAX: (406) 933-8910 Internet: www.
P www.simonichknives.com topsknives.com
...BORN IN THE USA...
Off Center Tools
“Gas Forges” ...CAUSE THEY’RE HARD TO THE CORE™

RENAISSANCE - The “perfect wax”

cleans, restores, polishes and protects your
valuable cutlery & collectibles
CHAVAR CUSTOM KNIFEWORKS
#1
choice of museums
& galleries worldwide
200ml (7 fl. oz.)
Also available in
2.5 liter
and 65ml (2.25 fl. oz.)
Dealer inquiries
welcome Pine Creek
Perfect for antiques, firearms and much, much more!
ORDER TODAY! Send check or money order for
$20.00 per jar of RENAISSANCE WAX plus $6 shipping.
Add NY taxes if applicable. Major credit cards accepted.
SEND $1 FOR CATALOG / SOLE U.S. AGENT
E.V. Chavar
CUTLERY SPECIALTIES 1830 Richmond Ave.
22 Morris Lane, Dept. BL, Great Neck, NY 11024 U.S.A. Bethlehem, PA 18018
1-800-229-5530 (within U.S.)
516-829-5899 • Fax 516-773-8076 • E-mail [email protected] 610-865-1806
http://www.silversmithing.com/cutleryspecialties
www.restorationproduct.com Call or Write for Brochure

SPARTAN CUTLERY Prices starting

If you really love
your knives...
Specializing In: at $35. ...They deserve a
Limited Edition and Collectors Knives Send $2 for new quality Sheath!
color brochure
Kitchen Cutlery • Sharpening Systems
Tactical and Hunting Knives
BENCHMADE • WILLIAM HENRY
MESSERMEISTER • HENCKELS
CHRIS REEVES • TOPS
www.knivescentral.com
[email protected]
1-877-KNIVES-3 Treestump Leather
HC 31, Box 6484
Rt. 200, Dept. B, Ellsworth, ME 04605
(207) 584-3000 • www.treestumpleather.com

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 107

BLAUG03 5/12/03 10:54 AM Page 14

Cobra Imports Ltd., Inc.

13-002
13-003
13-001

13-502 13-503
13-501
thene wsletter.com Now ininour
Now ourELEVENTH YEAR!
EIGHTH YEAR!

13-500

13-004

2269
2269 Chestnut
Chestn ut St.,St.,Suite
# 212-B
212-B All sword blades are full tang and made
SanFrancisco,
San Francisco, CA 94123,
94123. USA
USA of high carbon spring steel. Each sword
comes with a heavy leather sheath.
13-001 German Maximilian Helmet . . $195.00
13-002 European Close Helmet . . . . . . $225.00
13-003 European Comb. Morian . . . . . $185.00
13-004 Spanish Morion (sometimes called A Pot)
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $175.00
13-500 New Celtic Sword (24” blade length,
ebony handle, solid brass hardware) . . . . $189.00
13-501 Knight Sword (27” blade length, hardwood
handle, solid brass guard) . . . . . . . . . . . $210.00
13-502 Flaming Cris Sword (27” blade length,
Fine Knives from Seki, Japan hardwood handle, brass guard) . . . . . . . $199.00
13-503 Gladius Sword (22” blade length, handle
is 3-piece construction of hardwood with brass fit-
• With 750 years of sword-making history and tradition, tings) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $179.00
we offer the finest brand knives direct from Seki 55 Springhill Drive
Laurel Springs, NJ 08021
at the great saving SekiDirect prices. Tel.: (856) 435-1005
Tel./Fax: (856) 435-0795
Email: [email protected]
Hattori, Hiro, Seki-Cut, Masahiro & More Visit us online at www.cobraimports.com
Shipping & Handling Charges are $15.00 for
Shop online at: one item. Add $5.00 for each additional item.
Send $3.00 for new color catalog.
*** DEALER INQUIRIES WELCOME ***
www.SekiDirect.com

“Black Velvet” Excellence In

American Steel Damascus
American Made
American Tough Limited Edition Knives
Hand-Ground Fighter by Shane
Specs: 3/16” S30v steel; Paul Bos,
HT; Solid Micarta Handle; 11 1/8” OAL. Taylor
Heavy-Duty Kydex Sheath. 18 Broken Bow Lane
$249 ($10 S&H) Miles City, MT 59301
Robert Hankins
9920 S. Rural Rd. #10859, Tempe, AZ 85284 406-232-7175
[email protected] AmEx
Visa, MC PH: 480-940-0559 (thru PayPal) E-mail [email protected]
Free E-mail Brochure of available options. ($2 Hard Copy)
M/O, Cashiers and Personal Checks www.taylorknives.com

KNIFEMAKING GRINDERS See Me

Variable-Speed Grinder-Buffer At The
Blade Show
Four step variable speed pulleys for more efficient grinding and buffing. table 21-H
* Slow speeds for control over the work
* Fast speeds for heavy stock removal
* Slow buffing speeds for horn, wood, gun steel, etc.
* Fast speeds for heat treated blades and light pressure on softer materials
* Use up your buffs-increase speed as they wear to a smaller diameter
You would have to buy one variable speed belt grinder and two fixed speed CUSTOM KNIVES
buffers to do the work of one Speed-Cut. Since 1976

Power with your own motor, or complete units available.

Box 122
Send $1.00 for brochure Falkland, BC CANADA
SPEED-CUT GRINDERS V0E 1W0
P.O. BOX 399 PHONE/FAX: (250) 379-2265
EPHRAIM, UTAH 84627 Weyer of Toledo

108 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

BLAUG03 5/12/03 10:53 AM Page 17

Hockensmith Knives For Dealers Only! For Dealers Only! For Dealers Only!
Damascus Bladesmith
since 1987
Hand-forged
Damascus

Journeyman

Dan Hockensmith
562 Fourth Street SE
Loveland, CO 80537
(970) 669-5404
[email protected] KA-BAR
www.hockensmithknives.com

Mark Laramie
Custom Knives

“Navajo” Call Us Toll Free •Brand Names

•Dependable Sales Staff

181 Woodland
Fitchburg, MA. 01420
1-800-447-4342 •Courteous Operators
•Quick Service
978-353-6979 125 DEPOT STREET Forest City, NC 28043 Telephone 828-245-4321 Fax 828-245-5121
www.laramieknives.com E - M a i l u s a t n k d i @ n k d i . c o m o r Vi s i t o u r w e b s i t e a t w w w. n k d i . c o m

MARLOWE KNIVES THORINDOG FORGE

Charles Marlowe Cass Harris
Part Time Maker

P.O. Box 147

10822 Poppleton Ave. Bluemont, VA
VA 20135
Omaha, NE 68144
(402) 991-7316 540-554-8774
E-mail: [email protected] www.tdogforge.com
www.tdogforge.com
http://members.cox.net/cmarlowe1

The Art of Lonewolf

SETO KNIVES Hunter’s Dream

Custom Knifemaker 5” Damascus Blade
YOSHINORI SETO
NO. 674, INAGUCHI-C HO Stag Handle
SEKI-CITY, GIFU-PREF,
501-3932 JAPAN.
Phone: 81-575-23-9519 J.A. Lonewolf & Sons Internet no.:
Fax: 81-575-23-9690 481 Hwy. 105, Demorest, GA 30535 http://hemc.net/~lonewolf Brochure: $1.00
E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 706-754-4660 FAX: 706-754-8470 E-mail: [email protected] VISA & MC Accepted

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 109

BLAUG03 5/9/03 7:37 PM Page 16

St. Amour Knives

THE “TRACKER”™ KNIFE Murray St. Amour
Designed by Tom Brown Jr.
From the Movie
“THE HUNTED”
with Tommy Lee Jones
& Bernicio del Toro
*MADE
OAL Length - 11 7/8” Blade Length - 4 1/4”
101%
Draw Knife - 2 1/8” Saw - 2 1/2” 613-735-1061
Opposing Pitch Saw-Teeth Chain Saw Style IN THE USA www.stamourknives.com
Blade Steel - 1095 High Carbon Alloy Rc 58 [email protected]
Blade Color - Black Traction Coating R.R. 3, Pembroke, Ontario K8A 6W4 Canada
Blade Thickness - 1/4”
Handle - Black Linen Micarta®
Sheath - Kydex heavy duty LBE **EXCLUSIVELY
01

Weight - 1 lb. 12 oz. HANDCRAFTED

E0

BY TOPS KNIVES
R
KE
AC

TACTICAL OPS USA

TR

Serial
Numbered
T. O . P S

Price:
$299.00
SWITCHBLADE KNIVES
+ S&H
TOPS
Tactical-OPS USA
P. O. Box 2544
Idaho Falls, ID 83403
www.theswitchblade.com
Phone: (208) 542-0113
FAX: (208) 552-2945
Internet:www.topsknives.com

...CAUSE THEY’RE HARD TO THE CORE! ©

- - WANTED - -
John Nelson Cooper Knife Collectors

P.O. Box 1988 Cooper Knife Historical Society

Orlando, Florida 32802 David Boone
910 E. Boswell St. • Batesville, AR 72501
WRITE FOR 40-PAGE FULL COLOR CATALOG - PRICE $2.00 PH: 870-793-4787 • CELL: 870-613-4787
INTL. MAILING - CATALOG US $5.00 http://www.randallknives.com E-Mail: [email protected]

D.R. Good Custom Knives and Weaponry Don’t miss the next
Full-Tang Horsehead Damascus Knife
Damascus knife with hand-forged blade from 1095 and nickel steel.
Blade has 3 1/2 inch cutting edge and is hand-stamped with the
BLADE ®

Magazine
maker’s insignia, a buffalo skull containing the initials, “DR”. The Issue Deadline
handle is mule deer, featuring a hand-carved horse head, wrapped
with buckskin. Horse hair is also used to accent this unusual September (Guild Show Issue) May 21, 2003
piece. Knife comes with stand and hand-stitched October June 18, 2003
leather sheath. Stand may vary slightly from November (Blade Show West) July 16, 2003
that pictured. Price: $250.00
For advertising information contact

BLADE Magazine
®

Custom carved
handles, 700 E. State St.
knife sheaths, Iola, WI 54990-0001
65 Bobtail Pike sharpening
1-800-272-5233 ext. 642
Peru, IN 46970 and repair work
available. FAX (715) 445-4087
Phone: 765-472-7835 www.drgoodknives.com

110 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

BLAUG03 5/12/03 4:20 PM Page 19

Knife Making
Classes
Damascus Steel Knife • Blacksmithing
Hand Forged Cutlery • Toolmaking
Forging Damascus Steel Knives
Affordable Weekend & Weeklong
Workshops • On Site Lodging & Meals
Rural, quiet atmosphere
25 years of providing workshops
September 5-7, 2003
Blacksmithing
Jerry Allen
September 14-19, 2003
Hand Forged
Primitive Knifemaking
Herb Derr
October 19-24, 2003
Damascus Steel Knife Making
Cliff Parker
Herb Derr Handmade Knives &
Damascus Steel
November 2-7, 2003
Blacksmithing
Jerry Allen
Cedar Lakes Craft Center
Gloria Gregorich, Coordinator
HC 88, Box 21 6350 Tulip Drive
Ripley, WV 25271
Call (304) 372-7860 for complete details or Zephyrhills, FL 33544
to receive our 2003 Catalog!
(813) 973-1682
See me at the Blade Show Table #20L

TOM FERRY
Where Art Meets Performance
Fixed Blades and Folders,
Creator of TImascus

16005 SE 322nd St., Auburn, WA 98092

253-939-4468 • [email protected] NORSEMAN
KNIFE
Willy B. Ellis
Knifemaker

THOR’S
Willy B.
Custom Sticks
REVENGE and Picks
Push Dagger 10 Cutler Road
Litchfield, NH 03052
Phone: (603) 880-9722
e-mail: [email protected]
www.willyb.com
AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 111
BLJUL03 4/10/03 3:44 AM Page 4

Now! A NETWORK OF CLASSIFIEDS!

k prause ublications, the world’s largest hobby & collectibles publisher, is proud to announce that every
classified word ad placed in its periodicals will now appear on the Internet’s largest collectible classified site
at www.collect.com. Here’s your opportunity to reach thousands of collectors on the World Wide Web!

B L A D E LIST
BLADE Magazine’s Knife Marketplace
BLADE LIST DISPLAY ADVERTISING RATES: ORDERING CLASSIFIED ADS (Below):
The BLADE LIST section of BLADE Magazine accepts display advertising.
Please refer to the current BLADE rate card for ad rates, specifications and
advertising policies, all of which apply to BLADE LIST advertising. To order, call
Only 55¢ per word
your BLADE representative. Minimum charge is $8.25 per ad.
CLASSIFIED FREQUENCY DISCOUNT CHART: Category Note: Classified ads containing multiple knives for sale will be broken up
(Consecutive Issues Only Of The Same Ad.) so all Winchester knives are in one ad under a Winchester category and all Case
1-2 Issues .............................No Discount knives, for example, would be in another ad in the Case category. Each ad will
3-6 Issues ..........................................15% then be billed at least the minimum charge. Our goal at BLADE LIST is to unite
7-12 Issues........................................20% buyers and sellers by allowing buyers to quickly find specific knives.

MAGAZINE CLASSIFIED HEADINGS AVAILABLE

ANTIQUE FACTORY KNIVES 6282 Russell Barlows 6944 Sog Specialty 7602 Swords 8968 Terzuola (Robert) 9735 Design Services
6010 American Knife Co. 6300 Utica 6952 Spyderco 7622 Tool/Pliers 9000 Tighe (Brian) 9738 Distr Wanted
6020 Baldwin Cutlery Co. 6310 Wade & Butcher 7040 Valley Forge 7628 Toothpick 9100 Walker (Michael) 9740 Engraving
6025 Belknap Hardware Co. 6325 Misc. Antique Factory 7046 Victorinox 7640 Trench 9150 Warenski (Buster) 9750 Factory Reps Wanted
6030 Bertram (C) Cutlery Co. Knives 7084 Winchester 7650 Utility 9170 Wile (Peter) 9770 Handle Materials
6035 Boker Germany FACTORY BRANDS 7090 Misc. Factory Brands 7660 Wharncliffe 9180 Yellowhorse (David) 9780 Heat Treating
6040 Boker USA 6340 Al Mar KNIFE TYPES / PATTERNS 7666 Whittler 9224 Miscellaneous 9790 Knife Boxes / Containers
6045 Bruckman (E) Cutlery 6380 Barteaux Machetes Inc. 7100 Advertising 7674 Misc. Knife Types/ Handmade 9800 Knife Cases / Displays
6050 Bruckmann, Solingen 6390 Bear MGC 7126 Baseball Bat Patterns MILITARY 9810 Knife Clubs / Societies
6055 Burkinshaw Knife Co. 6398 Benchmade 7132 Bayonets HANDMADES 9310 Civil War 9825 Knife Rolls
6060 Camillus 6421 Blue Mountain Turquoise 7138 Bolos 7718 Bartrug (Hugh) 9365 Korean 9840 Knifemaking Equipment
6065 Canton Cutlery Co. 6424 Boker 7144 Boot 7778 Bose (Tony) 9405 Vietnam 9850 Knifemaking Instruction
6070 Case Brothers 6448 Buck 7152 Bowies 7785 Boye (David) 9432 WWI 9875 Knifemaking Supplies
6075 Cattaraugus 6466 Bulldog 7158 Bowies (Antique) 7792 Burke (Dan) 9445 WWII - German 9890 Knife Shops
6080 Central City Knife Co. 6476 C.A.S. Iberia Inc 7180 Camp 7800 Centofante (Frank) 9450 WWII - Japanese 9895 Knife Shows
6090 Christy Knife Co. 6480 Camillus 7232 Commemoratives / 7818 Cooper (John Nelson) 9465 WWII - USA 9900 Leather / Sheaths
6095 Colonial Cutlery Co. 6486 Case Limited Editions 7825 Corbit (Jerry) 9470 WWII - Miscellaneous 9915 Manufacturers Wanted
6100 Cripple Creek, USA 6492 Case Classics 7290 Diving 7888 Davis (Terry) 9475 Miscellaneous Military 9924 Memorabilia (Knife)
6105 Diamond Edge 6510 Cold Steel 7322 Fighters 7928 Emerson (Ernest) MISCELLANEOUS PRODUCTS / 9935 Multiple Brands For Sale
6110 Eagle Pocket Knife Co. 6523 Columbia River Knife 7334 Folding 7958 Fisk (Jerry) SERVICES 9936 Multiple Brands Wanted
& Tool 7338 Folding (Multi-Blade) 7980 Fowler (Ed) 9680 Agency Wanted
6120 Eye Brand Knives 9938 Oils & Lubricants
6530 Cripple Creek 7344 Fruit 8020 Gilbreath (Randall) 9685 Appraisal Services
6125 George Wostenholm 9940 Original Catalogs
6580 Fairbairn-Sykes 7374 Hunting (Folders) 8030 Goddard (Wayne) 9690 Auction Services
6130 Gerber Legendary Blade 9945 Repair (Knife)
6586 Fight’n Rooster 7376 Hunting (Straight) 8128 Holder (D’) 9700 Books / Magazines /
6135 Grohmann 9965 Sales / Auctions
6614 Gerber 7420 Machetes 8188 Hudson (Robbin) Videos
6140 Heimerdinger Cutlery Co. 9975 Scrimshaw
6650 Henckels 7450 Navy 8348 Lile (Jimmy) 9705 Buy / Sell / Trade
6150 Henry Sears 1865 9980 Services, Miscellaneous
6660 IBCA/ABCA 7460 Office 8400 Loveless (Bob) 9710 Catalogs / Mail Order
6175 John Primble, Belknap 9985 Sharpening /
6700 Ka-Bar Lists
6200 Klaas, Robert 7466 One-Hand 8450 Moran (Bill) Sharpeners
6766 Marble’s 9712 Cigar Cutters
6210 Lackawanna Cutlery Co. 7526 Razors 8708 Randall 9988 Show Cases
6842 Puma 9715 Collectible
6225 Marble Arms & Manf Co. 7532 Rifleman’s 8788 Ruana (Rudy) 9991 Steels
Advertisements
6860 Queen 7540 Scout 8808 Scagel (William) 9993 Tobacco Products
6235 Napanoch Knife Co. 9720 Collections
6876 Remington 7546 Senator 8880 Shadley (Eugene) 9996 Miscellaneous Products
6254 Ontario Knife Co. 9730 Dealers Wanted
6940 Smith & Wesson 7576 Sog (Type) 8900 Smith (J.D.)
6262 Pal Cutlery Co.

ORDERS Call: 1-800-942-0673 • FAX: 715-445-4087 • www.blademag.com

BLAUG03 5/9/03 2:43 PM Page 28

SINCE 1943, Ivory, rough gems, metals, epoxies, abrasives,

8708 RANDALL engraving tools and more. Mention Blade for your set of
catalogs. Indian Jewelers Supply Co., 601 East Coal Ave.,
I WILL pay top dollar for old Randall knives with Heiser Gallup, NM 87301. http://www.ijsinc.com Free catalogs on
sheaths in good condition. McCotter 252-633-5697. disc!
THROWING KNIFE catalog and instruction sheet sent free for
8808 SCAGEL (WILLIAM) SASE to: Tru-Balance Knife Co., PO Box 140555, Grand
Rapids, MI 49514.
SCAGEL KNIVES and Axes wanted: Gordon White, PO Box
181, Cuthbert, GA 39840. 229-732-6982 anytime.
9740 ENGRAVING
9224 MISCELLANEOUS HANDMADE CUSTOM LASER engraving for knives, tools, etc. Call Laser
Blades 800-966-5643 or fax 941-378-9427 for quote.
WANTED: SCAGEL, R.H. Ruana, Randall, Loveless, Morseth,
Remington, and Marbles knives and axes. Any Heiser knife or
axe sheaths. 229-732-6982, anytime. Gordon White, Box 181, 9770 HANDLE MATERIALS
Cuthbert, GA 39840. m
6135 GROHMANN DAMASCUS SHOTGUN barrel cut offs make great knife
CANADA’S KNIFEZONE, great prices on D.H. Russell Knives handles. Limited supply! $4 per inch includes shipping. 715-
by Grohmann http://www.knifezone.ca/blade 1-866-855- 9690 AUCTION SERVICES 682-8889.
6433. BUY OR sell your knives, guns and accessories on our auction EXOTIC WOOD, handles, scales, gun grips, custom sizes and
web site. Make our site your site. species available, let me know what you need! 760-765-4827
6486 CASE Http://gunandknifeauctions.com or Web site: http://www.tribalknives.com
OLDER CASE pocketknives for sale. XX, USA, 10 Dot and BUY OR sell your guns, knives and accessories on our auction IRONWOOD BURL scales, blocks, folders, squares, cubes,
others. Clean outstanding knives with pretty handles. Please web site. Make our site your site. logs online at http://www.ironwoodbydon.com and other
call or write for my list. Charlie Mattox, PO Box 1565, Gallatin, Http://gunandknifeauctions.com woods 520-625-5067.
TN 37066. 1-877-520-9192, voice mail pager. Mobile phone
615-419-5669. Http://www.mattoxknife.com
PLACE YOUR AD NOW FOR THE OCTOBER ISSUE OF BLADE
9700 BOOKS/ MAGAZINES/ VIDEOS 9780 HEAT TREATING
MAGAZINE. 1-800-942-0673. ATTENTION! MAKE a living doing what you love! Cheap, easy, HEAT TREATING & deep sub-zero (minus 300 F) cryogenic
WANTED: CASE pocketknives especially 10 Dot and older. and proven! Curious? Free information: 877-508-6994 or quench. Rockwell testing & certificates available. Air
Check with Charlie before you sell. Call or write. Charlie http://www.YouInstitute.com quenchables steels only. Call toll-free 888-461-8632 Texas
Mattox, PO Box 1565, Gallatin, TN 37066. 1-877-520-9192, Knifemakers Supply.
voice mail pager. Mobile phone 615-419-5669.
Http://www.mattoxknife.com 9705 BUY, SELL, TRADE OIL HARDENING/ zone and clay tempering- all steels. Lee
Oates, PO Box 1391, LaPorte, TX 77572-1391. For prices
FOR SALE: Antlers (deer, elk, moose), buckskins, tanned furs, http://www.bearclawknives.com 281-587-6080.
6842 PUMA etc. Over 150,000 items. Complete Internet catalog (pictures).
http://www.hideandfur.com PARAGON HEAT Treater DTC600 model #KM24D, 120 bolt, 15
PUMA. KNIVES. The finest since 1769. We are exclusively amp, used twice, $800. Stephen 541-479-5858 or email:
Puma. Your number one Puma knife resource, specializing in PROFESSIONAL THROWING knives, Mountain Man, custom, [email protected]
new old stock. Current discontinued list $2. Investment and conventional. Lifetime guarantee. Ironpost knives, PO Box
Cutlery, P.O. Box 544B, Auburn, MA 01501. 431, Creede, CO 81130. 719-658-0420. www.ironpost.com
WANTED: ANY condition handmade knives; Randall, Scagel,
9810 KNIFE CLUBS/ SOCIETIES
6876 REMINGTON Ruana, F.S. Richtig, Morseth, Bone, Cooper, Loveless,
Moran, Lile, etc. Also military knives and pocketknives,
ENJOY MINIATURE knives? Join the Miniature Knifemakers
Society. For information, contact: Earl Witsaman, 3957
BULLET KNIVES, posters and knife memorabilia. 800-622- watches. Send description and price to: Angelo Solino, 201 Redwing Circle, Stow, OH 44224, E-mail: [email protected]
5120 business hours. Toronto Ave., Massapequa, NY 11758. 516-798-4252.
WANTED: KNIFE collections. We buy single knives or entire
7090 MISC. FACTORY BRANDS collections. Interested in antique pocket, hunting and Bowie 9875 KNIFEMAKING SUPPLIES
knives, custom handmade knives, commemorative and FOLDER SUPPLIES pivot pins, stainless and gold plated
INDEPENDENT KNIFE and Novelty. Knives for every budget. factory knives. Immediate payment. Please contact: Tom
Case, CRKT, Frost, Kershaw, S&W, United Cutlery and many screws, titanium sheet. IBS Intl., R.B. Johnson, Box 11,
Clark c/o Blue Ridge Knives, 166 Adwolfe Rd, Marion, VA Clearwater, MN 55320. 320-558-6128.
more. $100 orders free T-shirt. Visit online 24354, 1-800-635-2583.
http://www.independentknife.com or email us at http://www.customknives.comr.b.johnson/
[email protected].
9710 CATALOGS/ MAIL ORDER IVORY LEGAL African elephant sold in full tusks or sections.
Alan Zanotti, 22 Goodwin Rd, Plymouth, MA 02360. 508-746-
7152 BOWIES LISTS 8552.
BIG BOWIES and large fighters, My Personal Collection: top COLLECTOR GRADE Knives- Queen, Schatt & Morgan, Ka-Bar, IVORY PRE-BAN African elephant sold in slabs, tusk sections,
makers. LSASE for list. L.O. Drake, Cutler, “Tall Oaks” Ridge Robeson, Remington and Case. We stock knifepaks and rolls. and whole tusks. Warther Museum, Sugarcreek, OH 330-852-
Ln., Mill Neck, NY 11765-0349. 516-922-2874. Send $2 for our catalog. S&S & Sons Cutlers, POB 501C, 3455.
[email protected] [email protected] Lomita, CA 90717. 310-326-3869 or visit our web site
http://www.snsandsonscutlers.com MANKEL’S 130# shop anvils. Natural gas or propane fired
shop forges. Tongs and hammers. Good used trip hammers.
7540 SCOUT CRK&T, SPYDERCO, Benchmade, Cold Steel, Case, Linder,
Marbles +many more. Large selection, low prices. Over 5,000
Call for prices. Mankel 616-874-6955.
JAYSKNIVES.COM OFFERING original boy scout and cub items. 146 page color catalog. Send $3, refundable with NORDIC KNIVES and materials, handmade and factory made.
scout knives by Victorinox and Camillus including Norman puchase. Visa & MC. Ruff’s Sadddle Shop Knife Sales, 20747 Blades, sheaths, wood, leather. Large selection.
Rockwell limited editions. Call American Edge toll-free 877- Wiygul Rd, Umatilla, FL 32784, 352-669-3143, E-mail: http://www.brisa.fi
393-2792 or visit our website www.jaysknives.com. [email protected]
POWDERED METAL 1084 High Carbon Steel $2.00/lb; 4600
DISCOUNTS UP to 55% on Case, Columbia River, Chris Reeve, 2% Nickel Steel $2.50/lb; 4800 4% Nickel Steel $2.50/lb.
7602 SWORDS Buck, Puma, Hen and Rooster, Smith and Wesson, Gerber, Contact Brian at 262-617-7929.
Boker, Benchmade, Spyderco, Queen Schatt & Morgan,
HOLLYWOOD REPLICAS is your one stop source for movie Kershaw and many more. Free catalog. Sooner State Knives, PRECISION THREAD cutter! 0-80 to 4-40 countersunk to cut
and TV weapons! We carry all currently available products! 401 E. Main, Konawa, OK 74849. 580-925-3708 VISA/MC. flat head as short as 3/32. Capable to trim partial thread. For
Star Trek, Star Wars, Lord of The Rings, Highlander, Xena and [email protected] more info call 520-762-5482 or e-mail: [email protected]
more! All with our lowest price guarantee! Visit our website at
http:// www.hollywoodreplicas.com for complete details! Free FALCON IMPEX, 8555 115th St., Suite A4, Richmond Hills, NY STEEL TANG Stamps: Mark your knives with your name, logo
locator service! Hollywood Replicas, 1029 Johnson Street, 11418. Manufacturer and Importer of pocket, hunting, bowie, or design. Quality hand-cut hardened steel stamps made to
Des Moines, IA 50315, 515-770-5234, E-mail: sword, fishing knives, daggers. E-mail your specifications. “If it’s worth making, it’s worth marking.”
[email protected] [email protected], 888-839-2709, fax 718-846-5641. Established 1898. Henry A. Evers, Corp. 72 Oxford St.,
WWW.Bajwaknives.com. Providence, RI 02905. 401-781-4767.
ORIGINAL ANTQIUE swords, daggers. All countries, periods.
Many Damascus, 43 years experience, 23 years mail order. Full GREEN RIVER Knives, ivory micarta, buffalo horn, oak, with STEEL TANG Stamps: Mark your knives with your name, logo
photo catalog, $5. Frederick’s Antique Swords, 6919 sheaths. Brochure $1 York Mountain Enterprises, RD2 Box or design. Quality hand-cut hardened steel stamps made to
Westview, Oak Forest, IL 60452. 272B Dept. B, Pittsfield, PA 16340. your specifications. “If it’s worth making, it’s worth marking.”
Established 1898. Henry A. Evers, Corp. 72 Oxford St.,
KNIFE LIST: Usually 200+ old/ new/ discontinued items. $1 Providence, RI 02905. 401-781-4767.
8348 LILE (JIMMY) (refundable) and large SASE to: Knives, 1426 S. 167th St.,
Omaha, NE 68130 or [email protected] TEXAS KNIFEMAKERS Supply, large mail order catalog
WANTED: LILE Rambo 2 Dagger (Serial numbered 100 piece available. Call toll-free 888-461-8632.
edition, black center with polished edges) and all variations. KNIVES PLUS (TM), retail cutlery and cutlery accessories
Will Pay Highest Prices! I’ll even honor the information where since 1987, excellent mail-order prices on most major brands.
to get one! E-mail: [email protected] Phone: +49
171 2839225
Spyderco, Gerber, Cold Steel, Eye Brand, Case, Buck, KA-BAR, 9890 KNIFE SHOPS
Columbia River, Smith & Wesson, Kershaw, SOG and many
more. Same day shipping on most orders placed by 12:00 SHARP STUFF. Antique, custom and factory knives. Buy, sell
CST. Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover and trade in shop. 3655 North Campbell Ave. at Prince, Tucson
8400 LOVELESS (BOB) accepted. Call for free list 800-687-6202. AZ 85719. 520-881-0327.
LOVELESS KNIVES wanted: Gordon White, PO Box 181,
Cuthbert, GA 39840. 229-732-6982 anytime. LIST OF over 700 automatic antique and modern knives.
Including Case Zippers, Ka-Bar, Grizzly, Presto, Flylock, Case,
Remington, Latama, Italian pick locks and many more brands.
9900 LEATHER/ SHEATHS
8450 MORAN (BILL) Send $5.00 refundable with first order. Skelton Enterprise,
Jerry Skelton, 3795 Hwy. 188, Alamo, TN 38001. 731-656-
CUSTOM LEATHER knife sheaths in your design or mine. Write
or call: Robert Schrap, 7024 W. Wells St., Wauwatosa, WI
MORAN KNIVES wanted by collector. Bob 415-768-4821. 2443. Request list “S”. 53213. 414-771-6472 evenings or [email protected]

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 113

GETEM.qxd 5/12/03 10:47 AM Page 2

FINE FOLDERS deserve protection. Ron Lake and Mike Walker

send their folders with one of these soft goatskin, ultrasuede
lined slips. Six sizes for pocket or belt. Arne Mason, 125

where to
Wimer, Ashland, OR 97520. 541-482-2260, fax 541-482-7785.
www.arnemason.com
JUST PLAIN leather sheaths. Designed for your knife and
carry needs. Made by hand one sheath at a time. Fixed or
where to get ’em
folding. Strong and comfortable. Nothing feels like leather.
Craig Boyer 248-225-7423.

9965 SALES/ AUCTIONS

BLADEMATRIX.TV WHOLESALE to the public we’ve got the
edge you need. Why pay retail? 419-475-5625 or
http://www.bladematrix.tv
get ’em
9975 SCRIMSHAW WHAT TO LOOK FOR AT THE BLADE www.randallknives.com; Spyderco, attn: J.
CUSTOM SCRIMSHAW by Juanita Rae Conover. Single or full SHOW Laituri, Dept. BL8, 20011 Golden Gate Cyn.,
color. Wildlife a specialty. Exceptional quality. Call for sample Buck, attn: CJ Buck, Dept. BL8, POB 1267, Golden, CO 80403 (800) 525-7770
pictures and turn around information. PO Box 70442, Eugene,
OR 97401, 541-747-1726 or [email protected] El Cajon, CA 92022 (619) 449-1100; John www.spyderco.com; Strider, attn: D. Dwyer,
LEARN SCRIMSHAW. Tools, Tips and Techniques teaches Fitch, Dept. BL8, 45 Halbrook, Clinton, AR Dept. BL8, 120 N. Pacific, Unit L-7, San
beginner and experienced both. All phases demonstrated, 72031-8910 (501) 893-2020; Don Fogg, Marcos, CA 92069 (760) 471-8275 strider-
$49.95. Specify VHS tape or DVD. Details and credit cards
accepted at http:// www.scrimshander.com Mail to: Bob Dept. BL8, 40 Alma, Jasper, AL 35501-8813 [email protected]; TOPS, attn: M.
Hergert, 12 Geer Circle, Port Orford, OR 97465 or phone order (205) 483-0822; GATCO/Timberline, attn: J. Fuller, Dept. BL8, POB 2544, Idaho Falls, ID
541-332-3010.
Anthon, Dept. BL8, POB 600 Getzville, NY 83404 (208) 542-0113 www.topsknives.com
9980 SERVICES, MISCELLANEOUS 14068-0600 (716) 877-2200; Johan
Gustaffson, Dept. BL8, Enbacken, Hogstad, NOW PIQUING INTEREST: SILVER
HUNT BEAR over bait, deer, and moose in Maine. 207-425-
6410. http://highmeadowoutfitters.com. S-610 Imstad, Sweden 46 011 571 06; Steve PIQUE
Jernigan, Dept. BL8, 3082 Tunnel, Milton, Rick Browne, Dept. BL8, 980 W. 13th St.,
9996 MISCELLANEOUS PRODUCTS FL 32571 (850) 994-0802 Upland, CA 91786 (909) 985-1728; Dan
IVORY, SCRIMSHAW, skulls! Legal: Scrimshaw, carvings, Burke, Dept. BL8, 22001 Ole Barn Rd.,
elephant, walrus, hippo, warthog, mammoth ivory, oosik, NEW USER/COLLECTOR Edmond, OK 73034 (405) 341-3406; Barry
stellar sea cow rib bone, pearl shell, horn, netsuke, Eskimo
artifacts, pistol grips, scrimshaw supplies, raw ivory for Benchmade, attn: T. Noteboom, Dept. BL8, Davis, Dept. BL8, 4262 U.S. 20, Castleton,
knifemakers & artists, old trade beads, etc. Informative, 300 Beavercreek, Oregon City, OR 97045 NY 12033 (518) 477-5036; Kenneth
illustrated catalog mail- $1. http://www.boonetrading.com or
call 800-423-1945! Boone Trading Company, Box 669 (BD), (503) 655-6004 www.benchmade.com; Durham, Dept. BL8, 10495 White Pike,
Brinnon, WA 98320. Columbia River Knife & Tool, attn: R. Cherokee, AL 35616 (256) 359-4287;
NEED ABRASIVES? Visit our onlin store at Bremer, Dept. BL8, 9720 SW Hillman, Ste. Tomonari Hamada, Dept. BL8, 5-12-83
http://www.industrialabrasives.com or call 800-428-2222 for
our free catalog. 805, Wilsonville, OR 97070 (503) 685-5015 Kamuvagaya Kohnav-ku, Yokohana Kana-
NORTHWEST KNIVES, www.nwknives.com 800-611-8849, www.crkt.com; Kershaw, attn: D. Flagg, gawa Pref., Japan (+045) 844-2567; Richard
Antique, custom, military, factory, swords- we’ve got it all. Free Dept. BL8, 25300 SW Parkway, Wilsonville, Rogers, Dept. BL8, POB 769, Magdalena,
Catalog!
OR 97070 (503) 682-1966 www.kershaw- NM 87825 (505) 854-2567; Ken Steigerwalt,
knives.com; William Henry Knives, attn: M. Dept. BL8, POB 172, Orangeville, PA 17859
Conable, Dept. BL8, 2125 Delaware, Ste. C, (717) 683-5156
Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (831) 454-9409
www.williamhenryknives.com DO NOT OPEN UNTIL THE BLADE
SHOW
PRESSURE? WHAT PRESSURE? Boker USA, Inc., attn: C. Hoffman, Dept.
Reggie Barker, Dept. BL8, 603 S. Park, BL8, 1550 Balsam St., Lakewood, CO 80214
Springhill, LA 71075 (318) 539-2958 (800) 992-6537 [email protected]; Buck
[email protected]; Dale Baxter, Dept. BL8, Knives, attn: D. Duggin, Dept. BL8, POB
291 County Rd. 547, Trinity, AL 35673 1267, El Cajon, CA 92020 (800) 326-2825
[email protected]; Bruce Bump, Dept. BL8, www.buckknives.com; Gerber Legendary
1103 Rex, Walla Walla, WA 99362 (509) 522- Blades, attn: M. Schindel, Dept. BL8, 14200
L00king 2219 [email protected]; Tim S.W. 72nd Ave., Portland, OR 97223 (503)
Foster, Dept. BL8, 723 Sweet Gum Acres, El 639-6161 www.gerberblades.com; Imperial
to sell Dorado, AR 71730 (870) 863-6188 damas-
[email protected]; James Saviano, Dept. BL8, 124
Schrade Corp., atttn: T. Faust, Dept. BL8, 7
Schrade Ct., Ellenville, NY 12428 (845) 647-
or buy, Wallis, Douglas, MA 01516 (508) 476-7644
[email protected]
7601 www.schradeknives.com; Masters of
Defense Knife Co., attn: J. Ray, Dept. BL8,
try KNIVES OF OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM
1941 Camp Branch Rd., Waynesville, NC
28786 (828) 452-4158 www.mastersofde-
advertising Al Mar Knives, attn: G. Fadden, Dept. BL8, fense.com; Queen Cutlery Co., attn: B.
16708 SW Jordan Way, Tigard, OR 97224 Breton, Dept. BL8, POB 500, Franklinville,
in the (503) 670-9080 www.almarknives.com; NY 14737 (800) 222-5233 www.queencut-
Camillus, attn: J. Furgal, Dept. BL8, 54 lery.com; Spyderco, attn: J. Laituri, Dept.
Classifieds Main, Camillus, NY 13033 (315) 672-8111 BL8, POB 800, Golden, CO 80402 (800) 525-
www.camillusknives.com; Geno Denning, 7770 www.spyderco.com; Timberline
Dept. BL8, 135 Allenvalley, Gaston, SC Knives, attn: J. Anthon, Dept. BL8, 665
29053 (803) 794-6067; Joe Flournoy, Dept. Hertel Ave., Buffalo, NY 14207 (800) LIV-
BL8, 5750 Lisbon, El Dorado, AR 71730 SHARP www.timberlineknnives.com;
(870) 863-7208; M.O.D., attn: J. Ray, Dept. William Henry Fine Knives, attn: M.
BL, 1941 Camp Branch, Waynesville, NC Conable, Dept. BL8, 2125 Delaware Ave., Ste.
28786 (828) 452-4158 www.mastersofde- C, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (831) 454-9409
fense.com; Ontario, Dept. BL8, POB 145, www.williamhenryknives.com
Franklinville, NY 14737 (716) 676-5527;
Randall, attn: G. Randall, Dept. BL8, POB
1988, Orlando, FL 32802 (407) 855-8075

114 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

BLAUG03 5/12/03 4:54 PM Page 30

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX
A D Knifeshows.com ..............97, 150 Red Hill Corporation ..............106
A.G. Russell Knives, Inc.....33, 97 Damascus New Zealand..........97 Knifeware ..............61, 63, 64, 66 Reddick Enterprises ..............106
Adam Unlimited......................135 Dantes Knifeworks ..................97 Knights Edge Ltd. ......................3 RFG Distributing ....................154
Admiral Steel L.P. ....................32 Davidson, Edmund ................106 Knives Plus ............................149 Riverside Machine..................111
Aeroblades ................................9 Denton, J. ................................99 Koval Knives & Supplies ..88, 103 Rogers, Ray ............................97
Al Mar Knives ........................142 Diamond Machining Technology L S
Albion International, Inc. ....41, 59 ..............................................58 Lansky Sharpeners ..................55 Schrap, Bob ............................97
Ambassador Mfg. LLC ............48 DiCristofano, Anthony ............119 Laramie Knives ......................109 Scotia Metalwork....................104
American Bladesmith Society ..105 Draper Custom Fabricators....108 Lay’s Custom Knives..............108 Sentry Solutions Ltd.................98
Arizona Custom Knives....97, 135 E Leather Crafters & Saddlers ..149 Seto Cutlery ..........................103
Atlanta Cutlery ................97, 163 Ebladestore.com ......................57 Lightfoot Knives......................153 Seto Knife ..............................109
Auckland Custom Knife Show..94 Elishewitz Custom Knives ......119 Little Hen Knives ......................97 SharkBiteKnives.com ..............97
B Ellis, David ........................24, 97 Lone Star Wholesale..............101 Sharper Things ................97, 121
Baca, Eddie............................111 ESA ..........................................45 Lone Wolf Knives ..............95, 97 Sheffield Knifemakers Sply. In.
Balboa Manufacturing ..............27 Eze-Lap Diamond Products ....39 Lonewolf, J. ............................109 ............................................104
Banyon Bay, Inc. ......................48 F Lozier, Don ..............................70 Shepherd Hills Walnut................2
Barr, A. ....................................99 Fallkniven ................................87 Lyle, Ernie ................................97 Simonich Knives, LLC ............156
Barrett Custom Knives ............48 Farr, Dan ................................140 M Skylands Cutlery ......................78
Bay Area Knife Collectors Assn. Finer Points ........................47, 49 Mackrill Knives ........................97 Smoky Mountain Knife Works,
............................................120 Foster, Burt ............................102 Magnum USA ........................103 Inc. ......................................120
Beck’s Cutlery & Specialties ..147 Fowler, Ed ................................84 Mantis Swords ........................97 SOG Specialty Knives, Inc.....124
Benchmade Knife Co. ................7 Fraps, John ............................147 Marlowe, Charles ..................109 Southeastern Custom Knife
Best Knives ........................48, 97 Frost Cutlery ..............................8 Martin Knives ........................153 Show ..................................150
Blade Art ............................71, 97 G Marzitelli Custom Knives..........95 Spartan Cutlery................97, 107
Blade-Tech Ind. ......................136 G.L. Pearce Abrasive Co. ......101 Masecraft Supply ..................100 Spyderco ..................................98
Blade Forums.com ..................97 Masters Of Defense Knife........50 St. Amour Murray ..................110
Bladegallery.com................32, 97 G
Gary Levine Fine Knives..97, 147 Matthews Cutlery ..................103 Stout Stuff ................................97
Blades International ................97 McCann, Bill ..........................102 Szilaski, Joseph ....................147
Gerber Legendary Blades..17, 31
Blue Ridge Knives............74, 105 McDonald, Rich........................99 S4 Supply ................................97
Good D. ..................................110
Bob Dozier Knives ................100 McGowan Manufacturing Co...124
Bob Neal Custom Knives ..97, 129
Greco, John ....................97, 119 T
Grohmann Knives Ltd. ............61 McLean, Lawrence ................102 Taylor, Shane ........................108
Boker USA ..............................25 Mercworx..................................49
Grospitch, Ernie ......................97 Taylor Cutlery ..........................29
Boone, David..........................110 Microtech................................121
Bowie Corporation ................101 Guild, Don ................................97 Mission Knives & Tools ..........154
Texas Knifemakers Supply ......64
Boye Knives ..........................105 H Third Reich Depot ..................104
Moore Cutlery ..................97, 155 Thorindog Forge ....................109
Brigade Quartermaster ..........145 Halpern Titanium....................100 Morrell, David ..........................83
Britton, Tim ..............................33 Hankins, Robert ....................108 Tighe, Brian............................155
Moteng International, Inc. ........35
Bubba Knives ..........................97 Hanna, Jack ..........................100 Mother Of Pearl Company ....142
Timberline Knives ..................134
Buck Knives ............................34 Hanson, Don ..........................104 Muir & McDonald ..................148
Tippmann Industrial Products ..36
Burke, Bill ..............................135 Harkins, Jeff ............................66 Museum Replicas ....................97
Toledo Swords USA ................42
Burke, Dan ..............................99 Harper Manufacturing ............101 Tom Ferry Knives ..................111
Busse Combat Knife Co. Hasque, Eric ............................24 N Tomahawks By Edgar ..............97
................................89, 97, 119 Heinzelman Heat Treating LLC ..63 National Knife Distributors Tops ..............101, 104, 107, 110
Held’s Discount Knives ............97 ......................................97, 109 Treestump Leather ................107
C NC Tool Company ..................100
C.A.S. Iberia ....................97, 164 Hockensmith, Dan..................109 Nealy, Bud................................46
Triple Aught Design..................97
Camillus Cutlery Co. ................92 Hoffman Knives........................97 Nemesis Knives ....................155
Tru-Grit ..................................149
Carlson, Kelly ........................100 Horsehead Creek Knives ......140 Newsletter ..............................108
Tru-Hone Corporation ............104
CBA Knives ..............................97 I Nordic Knives ........................129
True North Knives ....................52
Cedar Lakes Crafts Center ....111 Imperial Schrade Corp. ..........143 U
Central Texas Knife Show ........69 Independent Knife & Novelty ..97 O United Cutlery ..........................15
Ontario Knife/Queen Cutlery....19
Chavar Custom Knives ..........107 J Osborne, Warren....................156
Universal Agencies, Inc.
Chesapeake Knife & Tool ........27 J.E. Sinclair Knives ................140 ..................................29, 75, 97
Chopra Deepak ......................122 Jantz Supply ............................37 Oso Grande Knife & Tool ......154
P V
Chris Reeve Knives..................26 Jot Singh Khalsa ....................105 Vagnino, Michael....................105
Circle P Knives ........................97 Joy Enterprises ........................40 Palacio Enterprises, Inc. ........107
Paladin Press ..........................85 Valor Corp. ........................47, 97
Clem & Co. ..............................23 JT’s Knife Shop ......................106
Cliff Parker Knives..................111 Paragon Industries ................148 W
K Where To Net ‘Em ....................97
Close Quarters Combatives ....97 Ka-Bar Knives ..........................55 Paragon Sporting Goods ......156
Pardue, Joe......................97, 156 Wild Boar Blades-KOP Romed
Coast Cutlery Co. ....................74 Katz Knives ..............................87
Peter Martin Knives..................97 USA ......................................62
Cobra Imports Ltd., Inc. ........108 Kayne Custom Hardware, Inc.
Phantom Knives ......................97 William Henry Knives ................5
Cold Steel ................................65 ............................................107
Phillips Publications ..............102 Willy B. Custom Sticks & Picks
Collectibles Insurance Agency ..54 Kencrest/Hara ........................108
Piranha Knife Co. ..................154 ......................................97, 111
Columbia River ........43, 133, 151 Kershaw Knives ..21, 51, 81, 157
Plaza Cutlery..........................106 Winkler, Daniel ........................97
Cowles, Don ....................97, 129 King, Kenneth ........................140
Primo Knives....................97, 101 Wlknives.com ..........................97
Cowley Associates ..................84 Knife & Gun Finishing Supplies
Crawford, Pat ........................106 ..............................................54 Pro Cut ......................................5 X
Creative Concepts......................8 KnifeArt.com ..........................153 R Xikar, Inc. ..............................137
Crowder, Robert ....................122 Knife Center Of The Internet R & J Cutlery..........................155 Y
Custom Knife Company ..39, 105 ......................................97, 153 Ralph, Darrel............................97 Yukon Bay ................................97
Custom Knife Directory ..........103 Knife Guy ........................97, 110 Randall King Knives ................11
Custom Laser ..........................88 Knife Mart ........................97, 141 Randall Made Knives ............110 1 Stop Knife Shop......62, 97, 130
Custom Shoppe, LLC ..............69 Knife Outlet ......................97, 150 Rapp, Steven..........................102 2thehilt.com......................97, 150
Cutting Edge.com ....................97 Knifemakers Guild Show..........45 Razor Edge Systems, Inc. ......75 29 Knives ..............................103
Cutlery Specialties ................107 Knife Professional ....................97 Reba’s Enterprises ................106 888 Knives R Us ................79, 97
The advertisers’ index is provided as a reader service. Occasional last-minute changes may result in ads appearing on pages other than those listed here.
The publisher assumes no liability for omissions or errors.
WHATSNEW.qxd 5/9/03 9:08 PM Page 2

what’s new
what’s new

Folding Hone And Wood Anchors Wavy CPM S30V Blade

Whetstone Debut Damascus Pattern Has Integral Guard

N W A
ew Diamond Machining Technol- illiam Dean Mitchell launches Surefire folder sports a CPM S30V
ogy sharpeners include a 6-inch an ocean-wave-pattern damas- blade, integral finger guard and an
diamond whetstone and a 4-inch cus blade complemented by a aluminum handle with G-10 inlays.
folding Diafold, both available with varied maple handle and a damascus guard. For more information contact Surefire,
surface-grit options. For more information contact William attn: S. Ryan, Dept. BL8, 18300 Mt.
For more information contact DMT, Dean Mitchell, Dept. BL8, 8438 Cty. Rd. 1, Baldy Cir., Fountain Valley, CA 92708
attn: M. Nelson, Dept. BL8, 85 Hayes Lamar, CO 81052 (719) 336-8807. (800) 828-8809.
Memorial Dr., Marlborough, MA 01752
(508) 481-5944.

Dinosaur Theme Gent’s Folders Trio Of Elephants

Evident On Folder Have Tactical Twist Walks Across Steel

J K M
oe Kious’s damascus folder marries ouji Hara outfits Japanese gent’s att Diskin’s folding dagger
a handle engraved in a dinosaur folders with carbon fiber handles, features a mosaic-damascus
motif with a dinosaur-bone inlay. Cowry-Y blades and stainless liners. blade patterned with three
For more information contact Joe For more information contact Kouji elephants, a stabilized-elephant-ivory
Kious, Dept. BL8, 1015 Ridge Pointe Rd., Hara, Dept. BL8, 292-2 Ohsugi, Seki-City, handle and an anodized-titanium bolster.
Kerrville, TX 78028 (830) 367-2277. Gifu-Pref. 501-32, Japan (+0575) 24-7569. For more information contact Matt
Diskin, Dept. BL8, 3439 N.E. Sandy Blvd.,
Portland, OR 97232 (360) 730-0451.

116 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

WHATSNEW.qxd 5/9/03 9:09 PM Page 3

what’s new

Foster Fixed Blade Camp Knife Sports Folder Outfitted

Dons Burl Handle A Butane Lighter With Damasteel

B I J
urt Foster’s knife showcases a ncluded in the 14 implements of ohn Kubasek releases a locking-liner
ladder-pattern-damascus blade, a Coast’s Pocket Tool camp knife is a folder with a 4-inch Damasteel
nickel-silver guard and a Califor- saw blade, scissors, screwdrivers and a blade, a titanium handle and a
nia-buckeye-burl handle. butane lighter mounted on the handle. carbon-fiber overlay.
For more information contact Burt For more information contact Coast, For more information contact John
Foster, Dept. BL8, 21275 Dickenson Rd., attn: N. Morgan, Dept. BL8, Portland, OR Kubasek, Dept. BL8, 74 Northampton St.,
Moreno Valley, CA 92557 (909) 328-1213. 97228 (800) 426-5858. Easthampton, MA 01027 (413) 527-7917.

Blue Grip Defines Harris Engraves Rocker Lock Blade

Kershaw Sapphire 416 Folder Frame Shaped Like A Talon

T R C
he Kershaw Sapphire locking-liner alph Dewey Harris engraves the old Steel premieres the Black Talon
folder parades a stepped, blue- 416 stainless steel frame of a fold- featuring a 4-inch, talon-shaped
anodized-titanium handle, a 3-inch ing knife that sports a 4-inch 440C 440A stainless steel blade, a Rocker
AUS-8A blade and a removable pocket clip. blade and an ivory handle inlay. Lock and a Zytel® handle
For more information contact For more information contact Ralph For more information contact Cold
Kershaw, attn: D. Flagg, Dept. BL8, 25300 Dewey Harris, Dept. BL8, 2607 Bell Shoals Steel, attn: L. Thompson, Dept. BL8, 3036
S.W. Parkway, Wilsonville, OR 97070 Rd., Brandon, FL 33511 (813) 681-5293. Seaborg Ave., Ventura, CA 93003 (800)
(800) 325-2891. 255-4716.

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 117

ABStesting.qxd 5/7/03 10:09 AM Page 118

testy testing
testy testing

By Darby Neaves

Bruce Bump said that if a person

wants to pass the test for ABS
journeyman smith bad enough,
the pressure won’t stand in the
person’s way. These are the five
knives Bump made and which
passed the test for his journey-
man smith stamp at the 2001
BLADE Show. All five are non-
damascus carbon steel, as the
ABS dictates for the journeyman
smith test. (PointSeven photo)

118 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

ABStesting.qxd 5/12/03 4:06 PM Page 119

or those applying for journeyman or

F master smith in the American Blade-

smith Society, the tests for those
ratings are at or near the top of life’s most
FREE GRECO KNIFE
Purchase any two Greco knives in inventory from us at the same time from June 13, through
stressful moments. You’ve heard it said
pressure makes water run up hill? Well, it August 16, 2003, and get a FREE Baby Whisper,
might be better to say pressure makes f.f. knife in 52100 steel
water, period!
“Diarrhea, sweats, shakes, loss of
sleep and erratic blood pressure are but a
few of the symptoms that have been attrib- A $70.00 Value Free.
uted to the stress of the ABS tests,” says
Jer ry Fisk, ABS master smith and GRECO KNIVES
National Living Treasure. “One maker 100 Mattie Jones Rd., Greensburg, KY 42743
even put his cancer surgery on hold a
Phone: 270-932-3335 • www.grecoknives.com
week to take the test!”
The tests for both journeyman and
master smith are two part: knife perform-
ance and individual knifemaking skills. For
the performance test, under the supervision
of a master smith, applicants must cut a
hanging, 1-inch rope and chop a 2x4 in
half twice, after which the knife must still
shave hair. The blade is then put in a vise,
bent 90 degrees and must remain intact. If
all goes well, the applicant passes.
In the knifemaking skills test, the
applicant must submit f ive completed
forged knives of various styles for judging
at the ABS annual show and meeting held
in conjunction with the BLADE Show at
the Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta, Geor-
gia. (For more on this year’s show—June
13-15—see the special stories in this issue
of BLADE®.)

“One maker put

his cancer surgery
on hold a week to
take the test!”
—Jerry Fisk
See Us At The
Blade Show
Table 5-J

All five of the journeyman applicant’s

knives must be plain carbon steel—no
damascus. It’s mandatory that one of the
master smith applicant’s knives be a
damascus European quillon-type dagger
with 300 or more forge-welded layers. The
other four knives can be carbon steel,
traditional damascus, cable damascus, and
so on. However, the four knives shouldn’t
be of the same style or design. For both
ratings, only two folders are permitted.
Hatchets and tomahawks aren’t allowed.
The judging panel consists of seven ABS
members who are usually master smiths.
The applicant's knives are judged for
Fine Katana, Wakizashi, and O-tanto
design, fit and finish. Quality of workman- By Anthony “Masatoni” DiCristofano
ship is a must.
Proper preparation seems to be a (847) 845-9598 E-mail: [email protected]
AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 119
ABStesting.qxd 5/12/03 5:02 PM Page 120

24th Annual testy testing

testy testing
KNIFE SHOW
Bay
Area
Knife
Collectors
Association

August 16th & 17th

2003
Ricky’s Hyatt
Palo Alto, CA
www.bakca.org
(510) 797-6247
(925) 336-1444

Reggie Barker credits proper preparation for

his success in passing the ABS journeyman
smith test at the 2002 BLADE Show. These are
the five blades that enabled Barker to make
the grade. (PointSeven photo)

common ingredient for most smiths who me best as a recently retired business
make the grade. Reggie Barker recalls that CEO, and they had little appreciation for
“having all his ducks in a row” helped him my passion for knifemaking. They knew
deal with his journeyman test. “The pres- that I was applying for a journeyman
sure was great for a while until I had three rating, though, and I had a fear of failure
master smiths critique my knives,” he in their eyes.”
says. “They all told me the knives would How Saviano dealt with the pressure
pass and the pressure seemed to lift from should provide inspiration for others who
my shoulders.” will do so in the future.
Another who parlayed intense prepara- “What helped me most was being able
tion into testing success was James to visualize both success and failure and
Saviano. “I thought through a reasonable their ramifications—being awarded the
plan and started working on my journey- journeyman rating and the exhilaration I
man knives well in advance of when they would feel versus the [self-imposed]
were required,” he remembers. Nonethe- humiliation I would feel by failing. Just as
less, it was the demands Saviano placed on important,” he observes, “failure now
himself that affected him more than any would mean going through the process and
outside influences. associated pressures all over again in a
“Despite ample time, I did find myself year. There wasn’t a day that went by that I
experiencing mental stress—that which I didn’t think of the consequences of either
put myself under to constantly improve the alternative, and that in large measure drove
fit and finish of my knives and from the me to perfection.”
fear of failure in front of my peers,” he One of Saviano’s approaches to dealing
explains. “Many of my close friends know with the pressure was to work like a dog in

120 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

ABStesting.qxd 5/7/03 10:10 AM Page 121

a non-related bladesmithing activity.

“I counterbalanced the mental stress
with hard physical labor,” he says. “I took
up building dry stone walls from f ield
OFTEN COPIED...
stone. During the final four-to-six weeks
before the judging, I recognized the stress I
was under and began another stone wall. As NEVER
DUPLICATED
it had many times before, the work provided
great relief from the mental stress.”
ABS journeyman smith Bruce Bump
puts it in terms that may explain it best.
“The stress and pressure are relieved if
the maker ‘knows’ his blade will pass the
requirements. Such ‘knowing’ only comes
from many hours spent in the shop honing
his/her skills,” he notes. “Then, five knives
must be presented at the BLADE Show so
seven judges can handle and scrutinize
each one, eyeballing it at every angle and
QD SCARAB
writing notes down on those small sheets OTF D/A
of paper that say ‘pass’ or ‘fail.’ To me, this CPM® S30V Blade
is the real pressure. Ambidextrous pocket clip
“To be at this show and put myself
Glass break Tool
through this, I have taken vacation time,
left home, flew 2,000 miles, rented a car, & Sharpener
checked into a fancy hotel, and am stand-
ing outside the locked door of a room
filled with judges, along with a handful of
other trembling makers like myself await- 772-569-3058
ing their decision. This feeling can be E-mail: [email protected]
compared to waiting outside the hospital
delivery room. The pressure I feel is the
pressure I have put on myself, and maybe I COME VISIT US AT BLADE SHOW, BOOTHS 56 & 61
have set my sights too high.

After successfully negotiating the

free-hanging rope cut and 2x4 chop,
GET STRUCK BY A STREAK OF BLUE LIGHTNING!
the performance test blade must be An Exclusive, Custom Collaboration by WALLY HAYES
placed in a vise and bend 90 degrees and his Apprentices Dempsey, Douglas, Besh & Tomey.
and remain intact. Here’s ABS As Seen in Blade Magazine January 2003 - ONLY 10 Serialized Sets Ever Made!
apprentice smith Dale Baxter with his
blade of 1095 high-carbon steel that
Japanese Tactical, Cord-Wrapped, Electric Blue Stingray & Sterling Silver Manuki!
successfully passed muster in a
recent test witnessed by ABS master For the complete story behind this Collection or our complete listing of collectible knives :
smith Don Fogg and Alex Daniels. www.sharperthings.com or 866-858-4247 (toll-free)

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 121

ABStesting.qxd 5/7/03 10:10 AM Page 122

Deepak Chopra Cutlery And Accessories, Inc.

Finally...A Micro-Tech Distributor Who Only Sells Wholesale! testy testing
testy testing
Introducing the Double Action Lightfoot LCC Auto ready for
delivery at a competitive wholesale price only. “Why have I done this?” he continues.
“If these seven judges give me the nod, I
have met my personal goal at this stage of
my life. I think that if someone wants
something bad enough, the stress won’t
stand in his way. Personal satisfaction is
the end result.”
THE MRT-1
Near Physical Wreck
* CA Legal 2” Blades
While Saviano approached the pressure
* CM154 Steel Blades with physical exertion, ABS master smith
* Comes in 5 Colors Tim Foster was reduced to a near physical
* The Only 2-Blade Auto Knife wreck by his tests for both journeyman
in Production and master.
* Safety For Each Blade “The stress of becoming a journeyman
smith is very high because it’s a new expe-
Al Mar SERE 2000 Scale Release D/A rience,” Foster begins. “You know every-
* Only 50 Pcs. Left of First Production Run * one has said, ‘Tim, you will make it,’ but
you can’t believe them until the judges call
you in and take the load off your shoul-
ders. The pressure to succeed in front of
my peers was so great that, in 2000, the
night before the test in Atlanta, I came
Authorized down with a case of the shingles. As luck
Converted By Wholesale Only, Information On A Retail Location Also Available
would have it, the place where my skin was
the most sensitive was my right shoulder,
Volloton Ready For Immediate Delivery - Limited Quantities Available Distributor just where I got my ‘atta-boy’ slaps on the
Phone# 925-454-0595 Fax# 925-454-0289 E-mail: [email protected] back when I made [journeyman].

“This feeling can

be compared to
waiting outside
the hospital
delivery room.”
—Bruce Bump
“In 2002, I received my master smith
rating. I went to [ABS master smith] Joe
Flournoy’s shop to test my damascus blade.
I was so nervous when it came to shaving
the hair on my arm, Joe thought I would
cut myself. He should have been more
concerned about the [free-hanging] rope
cut. I completely missed the rope the first
and second times I swung at it. I didn’t just
miss it by a little, I was off by a couple of
feet! Joe said, ‘Tim, you can’t miss this
time or you fail.’ Needless to say, I got it
right on the third swing.
"Now in Atlanta, going for your master
smith stamp brings a different type of
stress,” Foster maintains. “It’s do or die!
You’ve looked over these five knives and
looked over them. The stress was so bad
my lips were dry, my legs were weak—to
tell the truth, I was getting sick to my
stomach. The door opened [to the room

122 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

ABStesting.qxd 5/7/03 10:11 AM Page 123

Jerry repeated, ‘you didn’t make it—

unless you give us one of those knives!’
Then they all said, ‘No, not really!’ They
not only said I’d made it but they wanted

“My lips were dry,

my legs were weak;
to tell the truth, I
was getting sick to
my stomach.”
—Tim Foster

to know how I made all the knives that

clean. I yelled so loud that everyone in
the hallway heard me and knew I had
passed. If going for your journeyman or
master was easy, it wouldn’t mean so
much to us.”

Accidents Can, And Do, Happen

Safety is always of utmost concern when
applicants take their ABS tests, but acci-

James Saviano dealt with the pres-

sure of his ABS journeyman smith
test by immersing himself in physical
labor—building dry stone walls from
field stone. The five knives he made
that passed the journeyman smith
test are among these (below)—
including his performance test blade
(the one with the bend toward the
tip). (PointSeven photo)

Of the five knives submitted by those

applying for the rating of ABS master
smith, one must be a damascus
European quillon-type dagger with
300 or more forge-welded layers, as
shown in the middle here (above) of
the knives submitted by Tim Foster
for his M.S. test. Tim passed the test
at the 2002 BLADE Show.
(PointSeven photo)

where Foster’s knives were being judged]

and Jerry Fisk [one of the judges] said,
‘Tim, we need to see you!’ I couldn’t even
make my legs move.
“When I f inally got into the room,
seven judges were standing in front of me,
all with their heads down looking at the
floor and making zero eye contact with
me. Jerry said, ‘Tim, I’m sorry to tell you
this.’ The silence was unbearable. ‘Tim,’

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 123

ABStesting.qxd 5/7/03 10:11 AM Page 124

testy testing
testy testing
dents can, and do, happen. Last year, Jason
Howell severely cut his leg during the
hanging-rope-cut portion of his journey-
man performance test at master smith
Jarrell Lambert’s shop. The cut was so bad
that Jason probably would have bled to
death if not for the quick assistance of
Jarrell and his son.
“I have no doubt that the stress of the
test was the cause of the accident,” Jason
remarks. “They say hindsight is 20/20. I’ve
beaten myself up over this time and again,
wondering what I did wrong. Jarrell went
back over the scene and looked at the
stains and footprints in the shop, and
concluded that my left foot was positioned
back and not forward during the cut. The
hanging-rope cut is something I’ve done
hundreds of times at my own shop, and
I’ve never even come close to having such
an accident happen.
“Two things stick out as contributing
factors: the adrenaline and my anxiety at
the time of the test. I had to pass this
portion of the test or wait another year. I
had worked for two years for this moment.
It was now or never. Jarrell said I swung
through the rope like I was going through
five ropes taped together. Bottom line, I
blew through the rope way too hard. If I
had it to do over again, I’d step back,
survey my surroundings, take my time,
relax, and feel comfortable before doing
any part of the test.
"I’ve changed the way I do things at
my shop. My old first-aid kit was some
Super Glue®, along with duct tape and a
Band-Aid®—if I was lucky. I have now
added a real first-aid kit, including an old
belt to apply pressure [as a tourniquet] for
a serious cut. [Editor’s note: Take first-aid
classes to learn exactly how to apply
tourniquet pressure to stanch the flow of
blood from serious wounds.] I also keep a
cell phone with me at all times. Let's face
it; everything in a knifemaker’s shop is
either sharp or hot. Proper protective
equipment and a first-aid kit are necessi-
ties.”
There will be several applicants going
for journeyman and master smith ratings at
this year's BLADE Show. If you attend the
show, make it a point to congratulate those
who pass, for they deserve it. (Check with
the main ABS table in the show hall on
Saturday or Sunday for the results.) For the
ones who fail, encourage them to try again.
After all, it’s not an easy road.

For the contact information for the knives

illustrated in the story, see “Where To Get
’Em” on page 114.

124 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

BLAUG03 5/13/03 2:40 PM Page 2

2003 BLADE SHOW WEST 2003

THE #1 KNIFE SHOW IS MOVING TO
ONTARIO!
SEPTEMBER 19-21, 2003
Ontario Convention Center
SHOW HOURS: Doubletree Hotel•Ontario Airport
Friday, September 19 222 North Vineyard Ave.
12pm - 7pm Ontario, CA 91764
Ph. 1-800-222-TREE or
Saturday, September 20
909-937-0900 for reservations.
10am - 6pm
Sunday, September 21 mention Blade Show West
10am - 4pm to receive a special $99 rate
ADMISSION: ino
$9 per day (Hawkinson knife photo)
hael V
agn
Mic
$14 two-day pass Kn
ife
by:

$18 three-day pass

n Rapp
y: Steve
Knife b

• Free Seminars for new

Blade enthusiasts as
well as seasoned on
uds
collectors. fe b
y: Ro
bH

Kni

• Outdoor Demonstrations
including forging and
Japanese Sword Cutting. DEALERS/RETAILERS—
Please call to find out
• An International Roster how to qualify for
free early admission!
of Top Handmade Knife
Makers. For exhibitor information contact:

• Exciting Collections. BLADE SHOW WEST

700 E. State St. • Iola, WI 54990-0001
• Major Manufacturers. 877-746-9757, Mary Lutz – ext. 313
email: [email protected]
For Exhibit Sales contact Kirsten Olson
• Supplier Displays. 800-726-9966 – ext. 343
Fax: 715/445-4087
for up-to-date information: go to www.collect.com/shows
SHOWCASE.qxd 5/7/03 8:00 AM Page 2

knifemaker
knifemaker showcase

showcase
“Knifemaker Showcase” spotlights the photographs of knives sent by any and all custom knifemakers to BLADE® for filing in the Knifemakers Archive.
The Knifemakers Archive is the most complete collection of knifemakers’ knives and information in the world. If you are a custom knifemaker and
have not sent us a photo (the better quality the photo, the better chance it has of getting in the magazine), write to: BLADE, c/o Krause Publications,
700 E. State, Iola, WI 54990 [email protected]. Please include a close-up mug shot of yourself with your knife picture.

J. and Tess Neilson

“I learned how to make knives by trial and error, in addition
to reading David Boye’s Step-by-Step Knifemaking book and
BLADE®,” says J. Neilson, who builds hunting, skinning,
replica and everyday-carry knives. “My wife, Tess, is the
sheath maker, and she is just as hooked on the craft as I am.
We thrive on doing everything in-house, creating a good
working tool first, then making it attractive to the eye and
hand.” The Crook-back (left) dons
a flat-ground 1095 blade, a
contoured brass guard, a tulip-
wood handle and a leather sheath.
The Neilsons’ list price: $175.
Their address: Dept. BL8, R.R. 2,
Box 16, Wyalusing, PA 18853
(570) 746-4944 www.mountainhol-
low.net. (Hoffman photo)

Mike Cook
Knifemaking is a natural exten-
sion of Mike Cook’s passion for
knapping flint and obsidian
arrowheads. “The world’s first
knives were made of stone, so I
explored stone knifemaking,”
Cook says. The trio of daggers
(right) include (from left) a knife
with a Mexican-agate blade and
a bison-rib handle scrimmed in a
bison motif; a second piece
sporting a translucent-Brazilian-agate blade
and scrim of a Sioux chief on an ivory
Brent handle; and a final offering that features a
red-Indian-jasper blade and a bison-rib
Beshara handle. Cook’s list prices: $425, $625 and $140, respectively. His address: Dept.
BL8, 10927 Shilton Rd., Portland, MI 48875 (517) 647-2518 [email protected].
Knifemaker Brent Beshara is
an apprentice to ABS master
smith Wally Hayes, and has
been in the Canadian armed
forces for 19 years, currently
serving as a bomb disposal operator and clearance
diver. “I’ve used knives throughout my career,” he
says, “and the knowledge gained from my military
training has proven invaluable in the knife field.”
The SF-1 (right) has a bead-blasted O-1 blade and
a cord-wrapped handle. Beshara’s list price: $290.
His address: Dept. BL8, 128 Chambers St. E,
Smiths Falls, Ontario, Canada K7A 2Z3 (613) 283-
5332 www.BeshKnives.com. (PointSeven photo)

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SHOWCASE.qxd 5/7/03 8:00 AM Page 3

Yasutaka
Wada
Japanese knifemaker
Yasutaka Wada pinpoints
the work of fellow
makers W.W. Cronk and
Wolfe Loerchner as his
inspiration. “I made my
first knife to use for trout
fishing,” Wada relates. In
addition to ATS-34 blade
steel, he employs the Japanese
steels Cowry X and ZDP-189,
preferring the latter two. “They
shine darkly and deeply like
mirror-f inished Japanese
swords,” he notes. “I believe
natural handle materials, like
maple, fossilized ivory, whale
tooth, buffalo horn, stag and alligator tooth, have marvelous
qualities. My main machine is a belt grinder, but most of my
knifemaking process is using hand files.” The stag-handle
Jerry Grice
knife (above, right) incorporates a ZPD-189 blade and stain- “I am happiest standing over hot pieces of steel as I shape them with
less bolsters and pins. Wada’s list price: $350. His address: a hammer into something I’ve seen in my mind’s eye,” Jerry Grice
Dept. BL8, Fujinokidai 2-6-22 Nara City, Nara Prefect 631- says. “Having worked in the ornamental metalwork business for over
0044 Japan (+0742) 46-0689. 32 years, I discovered three years ago that I like making knives. I
have also made damascus blade blanks for several
knifemakers over the past few years.” Grice special-
izes in building locking-liner folders, slip joints
and automatics. The three locking-liner folders
(below) are “damascus naturals” with damascus
blades and bolsters, and natural
handle materials. Grice’s list
prices: $450-$550 each. His
address: Dept. BL8, POB 5914,
Tallahassee, FL 32314 (850)
421-4788. (PointSeven photo)

Jeff Chaffee
“In 1988, I made a blade and took it to a local knife-
maker, Ken Largin, to have it ground. I watched him
grind it and thought, ‘I could do that,’” relates Jeff Chaffee. “After I built some
equipment and finished the knife, Ken wanted to see it. When I took it to him, he
offered me a job helping him make knives.” Chaffee took Largin up on his offer and
worked in his shop for four years. “On my own, I made hunters, fighters, pizza
cutters and kitchen knives,” Chaffee, who now specializes in locking-liner folders,
notes. The folding dagger (above) sports a blued Robert Eggerling damascus blade,
blued-damascus bolsters and a mammoth-ivory handle. Chaffee’s list price: n/a. His
address: Dept. BL8, POB 1, Morris, IN 47033 (812) 934-6350. (PointSeven photo)

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 127

RIGHTS.qxd 5/9/03 9:29 PM Page 2

your knife
your knife rights

rights
■ By Judge Lowell Bray
BLADE® field editor

Right To Bear Arms: One

Court’s Opinion Part VII
Three more states champion the individual right to bear arms

L
ast time in the continuing “Your including the body of the people capable militia, which follows the statement
Knife Rights” series on the landmark of bearing arms, is the proper, natural, “[t]hat the people have a right to keep
case of United States v. Emerson, the and safe defence of a free state. That and bear arms,” is not effectuated in the
U.S. Court of Appeals, Fifth District, standing armies, in time of peace, are amendments section by a grant of power
began a review of what happened when the dangerous to liberty, and ought not to be to the states to maintain a militia; and 2)
proposed Constitution was sent to the kept up, except in cases of necessity; and there is a separate clause in the Declara-
states to be ratified. That proposed Consti- that at all times the military should be tion of Rights section regarding standing
tution, it should be noted, did not contain under strict subordination to the civil armies which is effectuated by a sepa-
the provisions that were later to become power. rate proposed amendment to the Consti-
the first 10 Amendments known as the Bill tution. This is another example that
of Rights. philosophical declarations alone were
In this installment of “Your Knife “The right to bear considered insufficient to subtract from
Rights,” the court concludes the state-rati- arms is not effectuated the federal government’s power or to
fication part of its discussion with a look add to the states’ power.
at New York, North Carolina and Rhode by a grant of power to On August 1, 1788, North Carolina
Island, the last three states to ratify. The refused to ratify the Constitution until a
court then takes up the history of how the the states to maintain bill of rights and other amendments were
added. The North Carolina convention
Second Amendment was drafted and
proposed.
a militia.” —5th demanded the same Bill of Rights and
District Court of amendments as proposed by Virginia. It
Right To Bear Arms Separate was not until November 21, 1789, after
On July 26, 1788, New York ratified the Appeals the Bill of Rights was forwarded by the
Constitution by a vote of 30 to 27. New First Congress to the states, that North
York incorporated an extensive Declara- {Amendments to the Constitution Carolina finally ratified the Constitution
tion of Rights and thirty-three proposed section} “That no standing army or regu- by a vote of 194-77.
amendments to the Constitution into its lar troops shall be raised, or kept up, in Rhode Island did not ratify the
ratification. The relevant portions of each time of peace, without the consent of Constitution until May 29, 1790, and
are: two-thirds of the senators and represen- then by a vote of 34-32. Rhode Island
{Declaration of Rights section} “That tatives present in each house.” incorporated a bill of rights into its ratifi-
the people have a right to keep and bear Note that: 1) the philosophical decla- cation and proposed twenty-one amend-
arms; that a well-regulated militia, ration concerning the preferability of a ments to the Constitution. The

128 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

RIGHTS.qxd 5/12/03 7:11 AM Page 3

your knife rights

[applicable] portions of each are:

{Declaration of Rights section} “XVII.
That the people have a right to keep and
bear arms; that a well- regulated militia,
including the body of the people capable
of bearing arms, is the proper, natural,
and safe defence of a free state; that the
militia shall not be subject to martial law,
except in time of war, rebellion, or insur-
rection; that standing armies, in time of
peace, are dangerous to liberty, and
ought not to be kept up, except in cases

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civil magistrates, in such manner as the
law directs.

“That the people have

a right to keep and custom knives
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phone: 770/914-7794 fax: 770/914-7796 P. O. Box 20923 Atlanta, GA 30320
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safe defence of a free
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{Amendments to the Constitution
section} “XII. As standing armies, in time
of peace, are dangerous to liberty, and
ought not to be kept up, except in cases
of necessity, and as, at all times, the mili-
tary should be under strict subordination
to the civil power, that, therefore, no
standing army or regular troops shall be
raised or kept up in time of peace.”
Note how even the amendment
regarding standing armies contains two
philosophical declarations before getting
to the substantive restriction on federal
power, namely that no army shall be
maintained during peacetime. Your Satisfaction is Guaranteed by our Return Policy

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Having completed its review of how the
right to bear arms was treated by the state
also featuring Solvang, CA 93463 U.S.A.
legislatures as they voted on ratification of manufactured sport knives (805) 688-3612
the Constitution, the court in Emerson and kitchen cutlery or (800) 992-6574 (orders only)
moved on to a discussion of how the
AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 129
RIGHTS.qxd 5/12/03 7:08 AM Page 4

your knife rights

Second Amendment was actually proposed never could see in it, as it stands, the
to the states: dangers which have alarmed many
respectable citizens ... that the change of
By mid 1788, the required nine states circumstances produced by the secure
had ratified the Constitution, and it was establishment of the plan proposed,
clear the Federalists had won a major leaves me free to espouse such amend-
victory. But by the spring of 1789, the ments as will, in the most satisfactory
Anti-Federalists had succeeded in manner, guard essential rights, and will
persuading many that a bill of rights was render certain vexatious abuses of power
absolutely necessary. Some Anti-Federal- impossible.”
ists did continue to argue for additional, The Federalists ended up with a
structural changes to the Constitution, but majority in both the House and the
most were primarily concerned with a Senate. But as the eventual adoption of a
bill of rights. At the same time, while bill of rights shows, many Federalists
some Federalists continued to reject any were as open to a bill of rights as James
changes to the Constitution, most soft- Madison himself was. [In a] letter from
ened their opposition to a bill of rights, Madison to Edmund Pendleton (April 8,
mindful of the strong public support for it 1789) [Madison wrote}:
and aware that a bill of rights would not “The subject of amendments has not
materially affect the plan of government yet been touched—from appearances
they had worked so diligently to imple- there will be no great difficulty in obtain-
ment. ing reasonable ones. It will depend,
however, entirely on the temper of the
“Some Anti-Federal- federalists, who predominate as much in
both branches as could be wished. Even
ists did continue to in this State [Virginia], notwithstanding
the violence of its antifederal symptoms,
argue for additional, three of its six representatives at least will
be zealous friends to the Constitution,
structural changes to and it is not improbable that a fourth will
the Constitution, but be of the same description.”
The Anti-Federalists sensed that
most were primarily although the tide had turned their way
as to alterations that would secure indi-
concerned with a bill vidual liberty, the prospects for other
of rights.” —5th changes to the Constitution were dim. [In
a] letter from Richard Henr y Lee to
District Court of Patrick Henr y (May 28, 1789) [Lee
wrote]: “I think, from what I hear and
Appeals see, that many of our amendments will
not succeed, but my hopes are strong
[President George Washington, in his that such as may effectually secure civil
Inaugural Address, April 30, 1789, liberty will not be refused.”
said:] “I assure myself that whilst you
carefully avoid every alteration which The quotations in the preceding are from
might endanger the benefits of an united United States v. Emerson, 279 F. 3d 203
and effective government, or which (5th Cir. 2001). Footnotes and citations
ought to await the future lessons of expe- have been omitted for the sake of brevity.
rience; a reverence for the characteristic In the next two installments, “Your
rights of freemen, and a regard for the Knife Rights” will examine how the
public harmony, will sufficiently influence Second Amendment was formulated and
your deliberations on the question how sent to the states for adoption.
far the former can be more impregnably
fortified, or the latter be safely and The author has been a lawyer since 1972
advantageously promoted.” and a judge since 1983. He’s also a jour-
Federalist James Madison ran for a neyman smith in the American Bladesmith
seat in the First Congress, and, because Society, a voting member of The Knifemak-
of the strong public support for a bill of ers’ Guild, and a charter member of the
rights, clarified his own support for it: Florida Knifemakers Association.
“... although I always conceived the
constitution might be improved, yet I

130 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

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show stoppers
show stoppers

By Joe Kertzman

Pointed toward a BLADE Show debut is the Boker A.T.F.

reviewing knives to be debuted at the

P
(Advanced Tactical Folder), a Dietmar Pohl design incorporating
a 4-inch CPM S60V dagger-style blade and a 6061-T6 aluminum BLADE Show isn’t quite as fun as
handle. The handle is anodized for surface protection, and a attending the premier knife event
pocket clip allows for tip-down carry. Stainless steel liners and yourself, lifting the newest knives off
a thumb stud complete the package. MSRP: $260. cloth-covered tables and turning them over
in your hands. Yet, you can imagine your-
self there and pretend the knives
photographed herein are alive and kicking
in your sweaty palms. Just imagine wrap-
ping your fingers around these beauties.

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 131

bladeshowintro.qxd 5/7/03 10:57 AM Page 132

was a lot of machining going on to make

show stoppers
show stoppers
this folder. I ‘framed it out to nothing,’
putting weight-reduction pockets inside the
handle frame in places you can’t even see.
With a total thickness of 1/4 inch, the knife
Imperial Schrade hasn’t backed down to the challenge of is strong and slender. To make a knife this
debuting fresh knife designs in an ever-changing slim in an auto, with springs and every-
market. New for the BLADE Show is the 70TX, part thing, I nearly had to turn its mechanisms
of the X-Timer series. The lockback folder sports into watch components.”
a black, non-reflective, clip-point blade, an
anodized-aircraft-aluminum handle available
in gun-metal gray, green, black and blue,
and a metal pocket clip. MSRP: $59.95.
“Customers want
staple butter, egg
and cheese items,
but they also want
fresh and new.”
—John Anthon

The Spryte features a 1 7/8-inch

wharncliffe blade in ATS-34 or Mike
Norris stainless damascus. Handle choices
are titanium, damascus or mokumè, and
pivot-area inlays include diamonds or
sapphires. The smallest of a trio of folders
with button locks, the tiny Spryte includes
a leather lanyard and slip case for a manu-
facturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of
$300-$650, depending on materials.
“People like skeletonized frames,
which make cleaning the knives easier, so
the spine of the Spryte will be skeletonized
[in time for the BLADE Show]. If you
It’s not just knives debuting at the model weighing between .46 and 1.1 skeletonize a knife and if it’s built well,
BLADE Show in June, it’s entire knife ounces. Now that’s light! you can blow air through the frame to
concepts. Take, for example, the William “I don’t know where you’re going to clean it out without compromising
Henry Spryte, a damascus folding knife get a knife that isn’t junk that weighs less strength,” Conable assures.
available in several material choices and than a half ounce,” remarks Matthew “I’ve got a new word that I’m using to
manual or automatic versions, with each Conable of William Henry Knives. “There describe William Henry knives,” he adds.

The blade of the Masters of Defense Phoenix, a tactical fixed blade

designed by knifemaker Allen Elishewitz, slides in and out of the handle
on a “Bear-Trac” system. Part of the 154CM blade is always exposed, either
2 inches, with no serrations, when the blade is slid as far back into the
handle as it can go (shown), or 3 1/2 inches, half-serrated, when the blade
is locked in the fully extended position. The Phoenix sports a contoured
aluminum grip with non-slip handle inserts, a Diamond Black DLC blade
finish and a PrilonTM sheath. MSRP: $169.98.

132 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

bladeshowintro.qxd 5/7/03 11:01 AM Page 133

Gerber and Ernest Emerson team on

the Emerson Alliance, an automatic
folding knife that Gerber markets to
the armed forces, law enforcement
agencies and government personnel.
A machined 6061-T6 aluminum
handle and a black-oxidized-154CM
blade, plain or serrated, define the
piece. MSRP: $354

“They’re ‘wearable knives,’ which is differ- materials, locks, and new and exciting
ent from ‘carryable knives.’ I see these products,” Faust imparts. “For the BLADE
knives as part of a man’s or woman’s daily Show, we bring knives with us that the
attire. I’m all about lightweight, slender customer hasn’t seen.”
and comfortable in the hand and pocket,
without compromising the tool.”
There’s slender and comfortable, and
then there’s big and beefy. A Dietmar Pohl
design, the Boker A.T.F. (Advanced Tacti- “We need to
cal Folder) is built using some of the
toughest materials in the industry. They come up with new
include a 3/8-inch-thick, 4-inch CPM
S60V dagger-style blade and a 6061-T6
knife models to
aluminum handle. The handle is anodized
for surface protection, and a pocket clip
satisfy Spyderco’s
allows for tip-down carry. Stainless steel own needs.”
liners and a thumb stud complete the pack-
age. MSRP: $260. —Joyce Laituri
Pass the Mayo
Similar features to the A.T.F., like a
contoured and machined 6AL-4V titanium Such would include the 70TX, part of
handle with lightening holes, and a 3 1/8- the Schrade X-Timer series. Here are some
inch S30V blade, define the Buck/Mayo of the 70TX features: a black, non-reflec-
TNT frame-lock folder. Designed by knife- tive, clip-point, 420 stainless blade meas-
maker Tom Mayo for Buck Knives, the uring 3 3/4 inches; an
TNT also showcases a one-hand blade anodized-aircraft-aluminum handle avail-
opener, a titanium pocket clip and Buck’s able in gun-metal gray, green, black and
Edge2xTM blade technology. MSRP: $296. blue; and a metal pocket clip with the
For a picture of the Buck/Mayo TNT, see Schrade logo. The lockback opens with
the story on page 28. one hand, measures 5 inches closed and
New product is more important now weighs 6 ounces. MSRP: $59.95.
than it has ever been, the lifeblood of the “The knife is actually part of a bigger
knife industry, says Tim Faust of Imperial approach, or a wider focus, for Schrade,”
Schrade. “There is pressure on us to be Faust states. “The company is 100 years
creative with new knife and blade shapes, old next year. Everybody knows us by our

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 133

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show stoppers
show stoppers

WORKING
KNIVES
Greg Lightfoot Designed

No. 7213 MSRP $150

No. 7211 MSRP $150

ZAMBEZI ™
Fixed Blade

Kelly Worden Designed

No. 11291 MSRP $64.99

No. 11293 MSRP $64.99 The cobra hood flares over Spyderco’s trademark
blade-opening hole, like a snake ready to strike.
Spyderco’s A.T.R. (At The Ready) all-metal folder
also parades an integral compression lock, a
No. 11231 MSRP $54.99 hollow-ground, modified-dagger-style CPM S30V
blade, and a titanium handle. The Cobra Hood is
designed to guide a knife user’s thumb to the hole
for ease of blade extraction. MSRP: approximately
No. 11233 MSRP $54.99
$250-$300 at press time.

WORDEN Tactical ™
Old Timer pocketknives and traditional It was at the 2002 BLADE Show that
Uncle Henrys, but for the last decade-plus, Jim Ray of Masters of Defense f irst
Butch Vallotton Designed Schrade has expanded its horizons to revealed a concept knife the company was
include slim, lightweight, one-hand-open- considering manufacturing. The concept
ing folders with pocket clips. At the 2003 has become a reality in the form of The
No. 10415 MSRP $49.99 S.H.O.T. [Shooting Hunting Outdoor Phoenix, a tactical fixed blade designed by
Trade] Show, we released more new prod- knifemaker Allen Elishewitz, an accom-
uct than in previous years. plished martial artist and former Marine
Vallotton EMT ™ Recon member.
The blade of The Phoenix slides in and
out of the handle on a “Bear-Trac” system,
Timberline® Designed
“It’s real important but it never disappears completely into the
handle. Part of the 154CM blade is always
to save a couple new exposed, either 2 inches, with no serra-
No. 20411 MSRP $69.99
tions, when the blade is slid as far back
pieces mid-year for into the handle as it can go, or 3 1/2
inches, half-serrated, when the blade is

No. 20413 MSRP $69.99

the BLADE Show.” locked in the fully extended position. The
Phoenix sports a contoured aluminum grip
—Tim Faust with non-slip handle inserts, a Diamond
Black DLC blade finish and a Prilon TM
ENVOY ™ sheath. MSRP: $169.98.

Satisfying Spyderco
1-800-LIV-SHARP ™ “It’s real important to save a couple Sometimes coming out with new knife
or visit our Web site for the dealer nearest you. new pieces mid-year for the BLADE models isn’t all about satisfying
www.timberlineknives.com Show. It staggers our production times and customers’ needs, but, according to Joyce
is good for customers,” Faust adds. Laituri of Spyderco, about satisfying an

134 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

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internal need for knife innovation. “We

need to come up with new models to Bill Burke Knives
satisfy Spyderco’s own needs,” she says. High Performance
“To keep developing might be a chore for Working Knives
some companies, but that’s fun for our Hand Forged,
research and development team.” Multiple
Such fun will manifest itself in the Quenched
form of the A.T.R. (At The Ready), an all- 52100 Steel
metal folder parading an integral compres-
sion lock and that will debut at the BLADE
Show. It parades a 3 7/16-inch, hollow-
ground, modified-dagger-style CPM S30V
blade, and a titanium handle integrating
pre-drilled holes that are mirrored in the 315 Courthouse Dr.
pocket clip, increasing gripping and index- Salmon, ID 83467
ing power. A cobra hood positioned above Photo by BladeGallery (208) 756-3797
Spyderco’s trademark one-hand-opening
hole guides the thumb to the hole for ease
of blade extraction. MSRP: approximately

a r twith
$250-$300 at press time.
an edge
“The BLADE Show A large selection
of handmade and
is where the knife production knives

industry looks at
itself to see what’s
happening.”
www.arizonacustomknives.com • 904.273.0222
—Matthew Conable Julie Hyman | 4811 Otter Creek Lane • Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 [email protected]

“Knife technology has gotten better.

We do incredible analysis testing now,”
Laituri explains. “What makes the A.T.R. ADAM UNLIMITED
special is that it’s a state-of-the-art model Direct importer of high-quality exotic stingray skins and accessories
with only f ive pieces, not including
screws. We took much of the front-line
features in the knife industry and
combined them in one knife. It’s a little
different—streamlined, high-tech and full
of engineering and design.”
It was Timberline Knives’ John Anthon
who came up with the analogy,
“Customers want staple butter, egg and
cheese items. But they also want fresh and ORDER BY PHONE,
new,” he says, referring to the Lightfoot
Pistol Grip, which does not feature exotic MAIL OR INTERNET
knife materials but those that are “proven,” * Knife Pouches
in his words.
* Zipper Cases
“I think it is important to have fresh
knives at the BLADE Show,” Anthon says. * Billfolds, Belts,
“The Lightfoot Pistol Grip is a bolstered, Handbags
radical tactical folder. The materials are * Tanned Skins in a
significant, not that they’re titanium or wide variety of colors
gold, but high-performance steels and
composites that allow us to build a world-
class knife. Someone picks up the Pistol
Grip and says, ‘Wow, all this for only 80
bucks!’”
The Lightfoot Pistol Grip is a collabo- ADAM UNLIMITED
rative effort between Timberline and knife- 520 Washington Blvd. #122, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
maker Greg Lightfoot. The locking-liner (310) 574-3689
folder sports a 3.2-inch, bead-blasted AUS- DISTRIBUTORS WANTED — QUANTITY DISCOUNT AVAILABLE
8 stainless steel blade, 420 stainless www.adamunlimited.com

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 135

bladeshowintro.qxd 5/7/03 11:05 AM Page 136

show stoppers
show stoppers
William Henry’s all-damascus Spryte automatic folder
weighs just 1.1 ounces and is a slim 1/4 inch thick.
Other features include a 1 7/8-inch wharncliffe
blade in Mike Norris stainless damascus, a
damascus handle, a button lock and diamond
pivot-area inlays. The tiny Spryte comes
with a leather lanyard and slip case.

136 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

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bolsters and liners, a Zytel®, pistol-grip- law enforcement agencies and government
style handle with finger grooves, an over- personnel. The knife utilizes fine compo-
sized thumb stud with a non-slip Kraton® nents—a machined 6061-T6 aluminum
insert, and a recessed pocket clip. MSRP: handle, and a black-oxidized 154CM blade Enraged rhino
$79.99. For a photo of the Lightfoot Pistol in plain or serrated configurations. MSRP: charges car on
Grip, see the story on page 28. $354. morning commute.
“Lightfoot did an awesome job with Not all BLADE Show debuts will be in
the styling of the knife, including a beefy the form of “new school” knife patterns.
blade that stands up to any utility chore, Queen Cutlery markets its series of Schatt
elegant plunge lines on the blade, and & Morgan Select knives as “old school”
machined grooves in the finger choil and classics. The Swing Guard lockback folder
thumb ramp,” Anthon remarks. “The pivot parades a 4 1/2-inch, mirror-polished,
system is one of the strongest in the indus- spear-point ATS-34 blade, a red-jigged-
try. We have a bushing that passes through bone handle, “File & Wire Tested” decora-
the blade, liners and bolsters, and bronze tive blade etching, and a Schatt & Morgan
washers on each side of the blade. You can handle shield. MSRP: $147.
tighten the pivot down until you can’t Regardless of old-school or new-
tighten it anymore, and the blade action school knife designs, Conable says, “The
remains silky smooth. BLADE Show is where the knife industry
“We haven’t shipped a single Pistol looks at itself to see what’s happening. We
Grip yet,” Anthon expounds, “but it will have the opportunity to present to the
be at the BLADE Show—the single, world the ever-expanding vision of our
greatest convocation of knife enthusiasts company. The exposure we get at the
on the planet.” BLADE Show translates to a new level of
recognition to the most ardent blade
Forming an Alliance enthusiasts in the industry, who are
Gerber Legendary Knives combined BLADE readers.”
efforts with yet another respected maker of
tactical folders and fixed blades—Ernest For the addresses of the knife companies in
Emerson. Together, they created the Gerber this story, see “Where To Get ’Em” on
Emerson Alliance automatic folding knife page 114.
that Gerber markets to the armed forces,

Not all BLADE Show debuts will be in the form of “new school”
knife patterns. Queen Cutlery markets its series of Schatt &
Morgan Select knives as “old school” classics. The Swing
Guard lockback folder parades a 4 1/2-inch, mirror-
polished, spear-point ATS-34 blade, a red-jigged-
bone handle, “File & Wire Tested” decorative
blade etching, and a Schatt & Morgan handle
shield. MSRP: $147.

188 Extreme

Are you ready?

w w w. x i k a r . c o m
AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 137
peroni.qxd 5/7/03 9:40 PM Page 138

collector insights
collector insights

By Pierluigi Peroni

The “Vertical Logo Knife” by Steve

Johnson is a one-of-a-kind because
it’s the only one by the maker with
the logo so configured. Included
with the “Archer Chute knife” are
the project drawings. Inset are the
author (right) and Johnson at the
2001 Milan Show in Milan, Italy.

Knife photos by Francesco Pachi

138 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

peroni.qxd 5/7/03 9:41 PM Page 139

Editor’s note: The following is excerpted

from Roberto Allara’s book, The World of
Custom Knives, a massive (9 1/2x13 1/2-
inch) hardback book filled with full-page
color pictures of outstanding handmade
knives by some of the world’s top makers
from the collections of Pierluigi Peroni,
Luigi Peppini, Manfred Koch, Rolf Friberg
and Volker Geers.

I
was born, no doubt, with the chromo-
somes of a collector in my blood. Since
childhood, I’ve always collected some- The author values not only the knives he
thing, including figurines, stamps, coins acquires from the makers but their
and notes, cigarette boxes, pipes, pictures, friendships as well—as noted here in
calendars, old Winchester rifles, obsolete both the full integral dagger by, and
English and American cartridges, hunting letter to the author from, Dietmar
books, ethnic jewelry and much more. Kressler. The blade is marked
In each case, whether they were things 01.01.2001 to designate that
of value or inexpensive items, I’ve never it was made on the first day
of the new millennium.
been anything but rigorous and exacting in
all my choices. I’ve always tended to
specialize, avoiding “general” collections
in order to cultivate my interests in more
depth. I’ve never limited myself to simply
accumulating objects but have always stud-
ied them carefully, reading up on them
whenever possible. I’ve also concentrated
on looking for rare and particular items that
are difficult to find, and have never been
excited nor enthusiastic about objects that
are easy to obtain.

For many years I’ve focused my atten-

tion on two collections of which I’m partic-
ularly fond. One is of handmade knives, the
other of African art. The latter is restricted
to particular themes, though this isn’t the
forum in which to describe it. Both absorb
much of my time and, with the passing of
the years, continue to fascinate and involve
me—perhaps too much.
The knife is man’s oldest weapon and
tool. It has always existed and always will.
It’s not just a theoretical object but a practi-
cal instrument that can be used in all occa-
sions, regardless of the reason for its
purchase. The appeal of handmade knives
for me is incredibly strong and not even I am
able to fully understand how it manages to
exert such an influence on my life. I couldn’t
give up my collection and I dedicate some
time to it almost every day, including main-
According to the author, this taining contacts with knifemakers or other
is one of Bob Loveless’s collectors, drawing up some new idea, read-
most important and famous ing or writing articles and notes, or just
pieces—“Bad Bob’s” knife. cleaning or looking at my blades.
“It was the personal knife of African art, in its simple lines, fires my
Loveless,” the author noted enthusiasm in the same way because it
and was made in Lawndale, isn’t an end in itself, but consists of objects
California. that have really been used. These artifacts
of tribal art aren’t produced, such as paint-
ings, to be hung on the wall and used as
decorations. On the contrary, they’re made
to be employed in daily life and, with their
“patina of use,” give off unique “odors”
and feelings.
The underlying motive for my two prin-
cipal collections is that both deal with real,
usable objects. At the same time, it’s
AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 139
peroni.qxd 5/12/03 5:14 PM Page 140

KENNETH KING KNIVES collector insights

collector insights
770-476-1475 • www.kennethkingknives.com
equally true that they’re linked to my great,
total and infinite love of Africa and hunting
its big game—my first passion, unquestion-
ably, in order of importance. In fact, knives
can be used while hunting and I regularly
use some of them on my expeditions.
African art, meanwhile, represents and
See us at the reminds me of my favorite continent each
Blade Show time I pick up a piece from my collection.
Table 23A

18kt gold, diamonds, 18kt mokume, pink tourmaline,

An Early Start
carved mother-of-pearl & sterling silver. One-of-a-kind, I began my interest in knives as a child. At
entirely hand-crafted. Damascus by Devin Thomas. age 8 I already had a reasonable number of
inexpensive pieces that I chose with the
same passion, fussiness and love that I dedi-
cate today to my more demanding obsession
J.E. Sinclair Knives with handmade knives. Then, as now, I had
my hunting blades that I was very attached
All knives
Introducing for the 2003 Blade Show Folder made by me to and which I used when I went hunting
A Limited Edition set of 2 knives only in my
shop in with my grandfather, Ettore.
made in the classic dropped Plum, PA During the 1970s, my passion for
point style offered in handmade knives was stirred when I met
Ironwood & Ivory three cutlery greats: Gabriele Mercandalli
See me at Blade from Lorenzi Montenapoleone in Milan,
Show Table Fixed Blade who showed me my first handmade Ameri-
9-D can blades; Nate Posner from the San Fran-
& Knife Makers Guild cisco Gun Exchange, who sold me my first
Show in Orlando J.E. Sinclair
520 Francis Rd. • Plum, PA 15239
412-793-5778
Also Damascus Gents Folders in my design [email protected]

Horsehead Creek Knives Specializing in Damascus!

~Presentation Pieces
“from the Prairies of Dakota”
~Fixed Blades
~Folders

Jess Horn’s Model LF

is the long version of
the maker’s popular
Loyd Thomsen, lockback-folder style,
Award-Winning Bladesmith and boasts a boot
blade, stag handle and
605-535-6162 See more of Loyd’s knives on his website: stainless bolsters.
HCR 46 Box 19 • Oelrichs, SD 57763 www.horseheadcreekknives.com

140 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

peroni.qxd 5/9/03 8:35 PM Page 141

ROTON U.S.A.
A part-time knife-

Built Like a Tank• Smooth As Silk

maker, Italy’s Paolo

Nothing else even comes close

Scordia made this
unusual piece with a

100% American 110% Tough

snakewood handle that
resembles a moray eel,
thus the knife’s name—
Murena, Italian for moray.

Tough as Nails
Bob Loveless knife, describing it with love I’ve never abandoned. First is the almost
but allowing it to go against his will; and, maniacal attention that I pay to all the details,
above all, Manfred Koch, my true “knife even those apparently less significant, before
professor,” whom I am grateful to for the I make an order or a purchase. Next is the
valuable tips and many facts he has taught meticulousness that makes me very selective,
me with patience, altruism and unimagin- to the point that I’ll reject any product, treat-
able enthusiasm. ment or material that isn’t perfect or
Even if my tastes have changed over the produced “at best.” In addition, I carefully
years and, with them, certain criteria relating study and examine everything I collect, with-
to my collection, there are some tenets that out which it wouldn’t be possible to build an

An aficionado of all things

African, the author also is an Monarch Reverse
avid hunter, combining the two
avocations here with an African Curve Bowie $175
gemsbok-oryx he bagged on
the Dark Continent. 800-331-3213 (orders only)
or fax 877-694-8294
For product information call
208-678-3157 Mountain Standard Time
(GMT-7:00)

KNIFE
MART
Mail order: send to
Knife Mart, 596 West 300 South
Heyburn, ID 83336 USA
Include complete description of items,
shipping address, daytime telephone number.
UPS shipping $7.00 first knife, $3.00 each
additional knife to lower 48 USA destinations.
Dealers welcomed.

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 141

peroni.qxd 5/7/03 9:42 PM Page 142

collector insights
collector insights

This pairing of fixed blade and folder by

Italy’s Francesco Pachi is noteworthy in
that the author claims you can’t tell the
difference between the two when the
folder is in the fully open position. The
handles are snakewood.

Mother interesting collection.

My collecting strategy goes beyond the True Friends
of simple accumulation of objects—however One of the most important results of my
Pearl beautiful or valuable—which don’t have knife passion, other than having created a
Company that common thread which differentiates collection of blades, has been that of meet-
them between a group of objects and a true ing many different people and creating
Pearl slabs including; collection. And, finally, the obligation I have long-lasting friendships. I have also come
white, gold, pink, black, brown & abalone
always imposed on myself of collecting across a great deal of envy and false
OTHER MATERIALS; Jig, Pick, Smooth only the blades produced by those makers friends—and even some enemies. Nonethe-
& Stag Bone in a variety of colors & who have succeeded in creating a true less, the true friends I’ve made in this field
patterns: Mosaic Abalone Buffalo & Ram’s
Horn, Stingray Skins, Wallets & Belts. personal style, and produce objects that are have shown me that even in the small world
immediately recognizable as theirs, without of knives, important relationships can be
BLADE SHOW having to read the logo. made based on reciprocal trust and respect,
Booth
June 13-15 I’m proud not only of my knives but traits that are valued both in and out of
14 also—and perhaps more so—of the archive knife collecting and its related business.
Marietta, GA of information, articles, catalogues and rare For me and my collection, my friend and
Knifemakers Guild Show documents that I have methodically organ- knifemaker Steve Johnson is a special
July 11-13 ized and classified throughout my time as a theme. He and his
collector. I feel that my data base of knife
Orlando, FL
information is of serious documentary
value. In fact, sometime in the not-too-
Southeastern Custom Knife Show
distant future I plan to make it
September 6-7 public, as it may be of some
Winston-Salem, NC interest to collectors
Catalog send $5.00 or download from our and bona-f ide
Web site to: knife enthu-
Mother of Pearl Company siasts.
P.O. Box 445, Franklin, NC 28744 Light and dark pieces of desert
Phone (828) 524-6842 • Fax (828) 369-7809 ironwood distinguish the handle
www.knifehandles.com
www.stingrayproducts.com of an integral with a Loveless
shape by Germany’s Richard
Terms: Hehn.
C.O.D. • Prepayment • MC/VISA

142 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

peroni.qxd 5/12/03 4:01 PM Page 143

knives were my “first great love” in the

world of cutlery and probably always will
A collaboration between Jurgen
be. I bought his f irst pieces before he Steinau and Dietmar Kressler,
became famous and, as he says, we have this striking folder appeared at
grown together—him as a maker, me as a the 2001 Art Knife Invitational in
collector—helping each other and develop- San Diego. Steinau did the
ing a synergy that has allowed us both to mosaic pearl inlays and
improve our goals and achievements. I’m Kressler did the rest.
proud to own what I believe are his most
important and significant pieces—not just
the most expensive ones but especially those
that have marked the most important stages
in his knifemaking career. I feel privileged
that he has wanted to make such pieces for
me and, above all, I’m honored by the great
friendship that links us, despite the physical
distance between us.
Other of my knifemaking friends I’d
like to salute are Germany’s Dietmar
Kressler and Italy’s Francesco Pachi. I’m
really proud of their friendship—not just
the important projects that we have devel-
oped together and the fantastic knives
which they have produced for me.
In closing, I would like to express a
sincere thank you to my wife, Marina, who
has managed to put up with me with great
patience over all these years, and who has
allowed me to cultivate my passion without
restriction—in fact, allowing me all the time
and effort required. My collection of blades,
without her, probably wouldn’t exist.

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 143

BL0000941108.qxd 5/12/03 12:30 PM Page 1

2003 welcome to the

BLADE SHOW
2003
June 13, 14, 15, 2003
In Atlanta’s Cobb Galleria Centre
SHOW OPENS TO THE PUBLIC
Friday, June 13: 2pm - 7pm Saturday, June 14: 9am - 6pm
Sunday, June 15: 9am - 4pm
Show Highlights
• American Bladesmith Society • 2003 BLADE Magazine Cutlery Industry
Annual Convention Hall-of-Fame Inductions
• Special Knifemakers Guild Section • The Nation’s Top Collections
• FREE “Super Seminars” • Over 500 Knifemaker and Antique Tables
and Manufacturers’ Booths
• Blade Magazine’s 2003 Knives of the Year™
and Handmade Awards™ • All Major Knifemaking Suppliers

• 2004 Hotel Reservations • • Travel Discounts •

Renaissance Waverly Hotel United Airlines is the official air carrier
Phone: (770) 953-4500 for the BLADE Show.
- Please book early - Call 800-521-4041. Use Event Code 554SF.
Mention the Blade Show for Special Rate Avis is the official car rental service.
The discount code is JO99319.
Call them at 800-331-1600
Announcing
2004 BLADE Show For additional information contact
2004 BLADE SHOW
& International 700 East State Street
Iola, WI 54990-0001
Cutlery Fair (877) 746-9757
Fax: (715) 445-4087
June 4, 5, 6, 2004 E-mail: [email protected]
http://www.bladeshow.com
Make your plans
now to attend! We would like to THANK
the following sponsors:

Karambit.com
935773_BL.qxd 4/30/03 5:35 AM Page 1

SMITH & WESSON ®

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SW108, MK I Tanto, Plain $49.99
High carbon steel Tanto-style blades take an edge quickly and
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ambidextrous operation. Knives are assembled with Torx
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feature removable deep-draw pocket clips for instant access. A
fine finish and subdued black color make the line a favorite with
SW110, MK I Tanto, Serrated $49.99 Public Service professionals as well as serious civilians.

MK I™ AND MK II™ COMBAT FOLDERS

• Anodized aluminum handles with rubber grip inserts
• Smooth opening side lock
• MK I: Hefty dimensions make this a fine, all-purpose knife.
Specs: Overall- 8-1/2” • Closed- 4-3/4” • Blade- 3-3/4” x 1/16”
• MK II: Slightly smaller for easier carry/concealment.
SW113, MK II, Plain $49.99 Specs: Overall- 7-1/4” • Closed- 4” • Blade- 3-1/4” x 1/8”

MK III™ FRAMELOCK FOLDERS

• Frame lock folders utilize one side of the skeletonized carbon
steel frame as the locking mechanism with fixed-blade safety
• Milled thumbrest for positive control
SW114, MK II, Serrated $49.99
• Black powder-coated handle
• Black Teflon®-coated blade
• Specs: Overall- 8-1/2” • Closed- 4-3/4” • Blade- 3-5/8” x 1/8”

MK IV™ SKELETAL NECK KNIFE

• Ideal, concealable backup weapon
• Sturdy chain is designed to break under undue pressure to
prevent choking
SW116, MK III,Plain $59.99 • Black fiber-reinforced nylon handle
• Black Teflon®-coated blade
• Fiber reinforced nylon sheath with positive click-stop retention
and built-in emergency whistle
• Specs: Overall- 6-7/8” • Blade- 3” x 0.10”

SW117, MK III,Combo $59.99

COMBAT SURVIVAL™ KUKRI
The legendary Gurkhas, renowned warriors from the Nepalese
Himalayas, served as mercenary warriors for the British crown as
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SW115, MK IV Skeletal Neck Knife $29.99 • Perfectly balanced for chopping, with deep belly for slicing, food
preparation or game skinning
• 1095 Carbon Steel full-tang blade
• Epoxy powder coated for corrosion resistance
• Kraton® handle with bird’s-beak pommel and lanyard
• Dimensions - 17” overall with 12” x 0.187” blade
• Weight - 2 lbs.
• Black Cordura® nylon belt sheath
• Made in the U.S.A. by Ontario Knife Company

See Your Local Knife Dealer or Call:

800-338-4327
Spec Ops Knives
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PO Box 100001, Kennesaw, GA 30144-9217
Dealer & Distributor Inquiries Call:
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SP2502, Combat Survival Kukri $59.99 E-mail: [email protected]
KKR01, Kukri Kydex Replacement Sheath $29.99
KEY: BL06
KEY: BL08
newuser.qxd 5/9/03 8:29 AM Page 146

trend tracking
trend tracking

By Mike Haskew

An extreme version of today’s user/collector—if you

hang around enough knife enthusiasts, you probably
know one—may have more knives than pockets.

146 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

newuser.qxd 5/7/03 9:56 AM Page 148

QUALITY trend tracking

trend tracking
SHEATH
LEATHER

One of the hallmarks of user/collectors

is that they’ve got to have the latest in
folding mechanisms. An example is
the new integral-frame Model B07
Westcliff with the button-lock mecha-
nism from William Henry Knives. The
“Picking the right leather is vital wharncliffe blade is raindrop-pattern
to longterm knife perservation.” stainless damascus by Mike Norris.
Gary Kelley BLADE Magazine, June 1992 The bolsters and liners are matching
raindrop mokume by Mike Sakmar. The
• Natural Russet • Bark Tanned
handle is mother-of-pearl with inlaid
• Great Memory opals. Available: summer.
• Natural Honey Color
• No Chromic Acid
Connoisseurs benef it from promotions
The best vegetable tanned
leather for over 130 years. such as discounts and a free knife sharpen-
Call for a free brochure and ing service on their birthdays. They even
ask about our split leather. have opportunities to receive knives.
“For example, we may see a person
buying one Benchmade knife after the
other,” continued Coppa. “He’s collecting
them as they come out and he’s definitely
P.O. Box 136 • Dallas, Oregon 97338 using them. These are people who many
FAX: (503) 623-9091 times want to carry something different handmade knives, the majority concentrate
Toll Free: 1-800-547-1299 from their friends. One of our customers on production knives. Still, the new breed
comes in regularly and wants to buy the share some interesting characteristics.
latest handmade knife we have made by “Most are more affluent and have middle-
knifemaker Jot Singh Khalsa.” to-high incomes,” said Huegel. “Some are
According to the retailers interviewed single guys who haven’t gotten married
for this story, though some new yet, so they have a little more disposable
user/collectors may spend their money on

Kershaw is another hot brand among

user/collectors, thanks in no small part to the
Ken-Onion-designed assisted-opening Speed-
Safe mechanism, here on the company’s new
Bump frame-lock model. A curved “bump” just
forward of the CPM S30V blade’s middle is the
Paragon heat treating inspiration for the folder’s name. The handle is
furnaces for knife makers blue anodized titanium with gold accents.
“I couldn’t achieve the control I now Closed length: ~4 1/2 inches. Weight: 4.3
enjoy had I not had a Paragon furnace,” ounces. Available: June. MSRP: $275.
says Ed Fowler. “Owning a Paragon is
extremely beneficial to blade smithing.”
The KM-24D shown above features
the new Sentry digital controller and a
larger, ¼” wide thermocouple. Ask
about our optional gas injection flow
meter.
Interiors of our knife maker fur-
naces: 14 ½” long KM-14D, 24” long
KM-24D, and 36” long KM-36D. (All
three models are 5 ½” wide x 4 ¼” high
inside.) Free brochure available.

2011 South Town East Blvd.,

Mesquite, Texas 75149-1122
800-876-4328 / 972-288-7557
Toll Free Fax 888-222-6450
www.paragonweb.com
[email protected]

148 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

newuser.qxd 5/7/03 9:57 AM Page 149

income. Mainly, they’re buying single-

blade locking knives in the $100-to-$300
price range.”
Coppa agreed. The demographics she
$2900
uses are based largely on zip codes and
paint the picture of the user/collector as a
white-collar male over the age of 30.
They’re also buying pieces in the upper
end of the production-price range, such as
those from William Henry Knives.
At Safe & Knife Company in
Minneapolis, owner John Borchardt said he
sees the new user/collectors in his store
every day. Borchardt’s customer profile is a
male aged 35-55. Some, he noted, are fasci-
nated by today’s variety of locking mecha-
nisms, materials and variations on a theme.
“We don’t do as much in the way of
handmade knives as we did in the past,”
said Borchardt, “but what we are seeing is
activity in the Columbia River Knife &
Tool, Kershaw and Benchmade lines. I
can’t keep Columbia’s M-16 series on the
shelf, including the Zytel®, aluminum and
now the military-issue types. Along with
Kershaw, Columbia River is my best-sell-
ing brand right now.”

“He’s collecting
them as they
come out and he’s
definitely using
them.” TRU - GRIT
—Samantha Coppa NORTON HOGGER, NORAX AND 3/M
CUBITRON KICK BUTT GRINDING BELTS
Borchardt has a wider scope of Burr-King, Bader &
user/collectors in his customer base, with
varying incomes and tastes. “At least 50 Hard Core Belt Grinders
percent of my customers are repeat busi-
ness, and I hear this all the time,” he said.
“I get the guys driving the ’78 Ford pickup Variable Speed Motors
and the guys driving the Mercedes, both
blue collar and white collar. We don’t see Large selection of Steel in stock. ATS. 34, 440C,
BG-42, & 416. Also Stainless & Nickel Damacus
them as much with fixed blades, but, when
we get Chris Reeve and Randall pieces in
here, they go quickly.”

Not Necessarily New

Some knife retailers see the phenomenon
as a recent, even surprising, development.
Huegel began to notice customers asking
for the latest knife in a particular line
about five years ago—some of them taking
a slightly used knife out of their pocket,
putting it straight into the box that held the 9˝ Reversible Disc Sander.
new knife, and slipping the new knife into Call For Catalog
their pocket in place of the slightly used TRU - GRIT
one. Coppa has been involved in the knife 760 E. Francis St. Suite N, Ontario, CA 91761
business since 1989 and recognized the (909) 923-4116 • Fax (909) 923-9932 • 1-800-532-3336
trend about three years ago. http://www.trugrit.com
At the House of Blades in Ft. Worth, VISA - MasterCard - American Express
AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 149
newuser.qxd 5/12/03 12:13 PM Page 150

trend tracking
trend tracking
Texas, B.C. Adams says the user/collectors
have been around for much longer.
However, he’s quick to add that labeling
them collectors may be something of a
misnomer. “If a person really wants to
collect a knife, he shouldn’t use it,” Adams
qualif ied. “There are a lot of different
reasons to collect knives, but normally I
would think someone collects because he
likes them and wants to make money, too.
A true collector won’t want to buy a knife
that’s been sharpened or that you can tell
has been used.”
Adams said there are serious collectors
and those who aren’t. He describes the
user/collector as more of a person who
SouthEastern Custom simply sees a new knife that he wants to
Knife Show carry. “People that do this are not true
collectors,” he commented. “I might have a
September 6 & 7 2003 customer coming in 30 or 40 times a year,
and after they buy so many knives it
Benton Convention Center becomes something like ‘Which one do I
Winston-Salem, NC think I’ll carry today?’”
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adm G U I L D and Huegel said some manufacturers have
Special Rate at Adams Mark Winston Plaza Hotel, 1-800-444-2326 discovered that variations keep people
Tommy McNabb • 336-759-0640 • e-mail: [email protected] B buying. “The thing that some companies
have realized,” he offered, “is that they can
change a color or put a natural handle
material on a knife and sell the newer one
to a guy who already has that model but
likes the different materials. The biggest
problem for manufacturers is how many of
a certain knife to make before sales peak
and then drop off. Very few standard
Cool Blades! Hot Prices! models are out there longer than 10 years.”
As a result, in response to a potentially
limited shelf life of their favorite knife,
some buyers prefer to hedge their bets
somewhat, buying at least a couple of the
Knife Outlet same model and saving one for a collection
or future use.
The knives you want at internet prices! www.knifeoutlet.com According to Benchmade’s Travis
Div. of Specialty Web Marketing, Inc.
66400 Oak Road, Lakeville, IN 46536 (800) 607-9948 Noteboom, Benchmade has experienced a
lot of success with the variations-on-a-
theme approach. “All our knives are made
in-house, which gives us total control over
the materials that go into the product,” he
noted. “The tolerances are such that we

www.knifeshows.com can change materials on the knives at any

given time. For instance, the model 710-02
is a product that went from a concept piece
at the SHOT Show to an in-line product
WHAT’S NEW?
due to the feedback we received at the
show.”

AUCTION
One of Huegel’s customers has bought
high-end limited-edition knives for years, a
few of them with damascus blades and
accents. “He’s just carrying them as a
‘show knife,’ if you will,” said Huegel, “and
his friends are always asking him what
knife he’s carrying at any given moment.”

150 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

newuser.qxd 5/7/03 10:02 AM Page 151

Benchmade’s “variations-on-a-theme” approach is exemplified here by its

“specials”—standard models outfitted with special blade and/or handle and
bolster materials, from top (all dollar amounts are manufacturer’s suggested retail
prices): 941TI-01 with a titanium handle ($220); 940D2CF with a carbon fiber
handle ($240); 960-01 with a 410 stainless handle and black-and-grey simulated
mother-of-pearl insert ($275); 705-02 ($170) and 710-02 ($180), both with aircraft
aluminum handles, G-10 inserts and BT2 coated D-2 high-carbon steel blades; the
733-02 with a wood handle ($190); and the 733-01 with a wood handle and carbon-
fiber bolsters ($190).

The user/collectors, a growing breed of For the contact information for the knives
knife enthusiasts, seem to be enjoying the herein, see “Where To Get ’Em” on page
best of both worlds—carrying and collect- 114.
ing their favorite knives.

According to John Borchardt, owner of Safe & Knife Co. in

Minneapolis, Minnesota, Columbia River Knife & Tool,
Kershaw and Benchmade are three of the hottest brands
among user/collectors. “I can’t keep Columbia’s M-16
series on the shelf, including the Zytel®, aluminum and
now the military-issue types,” he noted. This is one of the
latest versions of the CRKT M16, the M16-01K Compact
EDC, a smaller version of the standard M16. Closed length:
4 inches. MSRP: $69.99.

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 151

Batson.qxd 5/7/03 9:45 PM Page 152

forge feast
forge feast

By Steve Shackleford

Kevin Cashen heats a sword

billet in the gas forge and then
hammers it to shape in his
seminar on medieval sword
forging in the Forge Pavilion at
the Tannehill Ironworks near
Bessemer, Alabama.

152 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

Batson.qxd 5/7/03 9:46 PM Page 153

eautiful spring weather in the

B Southeast, a rustic outdoor venue, a

comprehensive slate of state-of-the-
art knifemaking seminars, and a collection
of good ol’, back-slappin’ “hammer boys”
and knife enthusiasts made the recent

M1
Batson Bladesmithing Symposium another
anvil-ringing success.

Lightfoot
Sponsored in part by the Alabama
Forge Council and the Artist Blacksmith
Association of North America (ABANA), Lightfoot
the 15th annual event brought together
brothers and sisters of the blade from Knives
Knives
TA C T I C A L D I V I S I O N
ph.:780/846-2812 fax:780/846-2813
RR #2 Kitscoty, AB Canada T0B 2P0
across the country and around the world to
the Tannehill Ironworks near Bessemer, www.lightfootknives.com
www.lightfootknives.com
Alabama. There were kids forging blades,
the event’s annual cutting competition,
sales of various knifemaking and blade-
smithing supplies, a knife show and
auction, and good food and lots of cama- Peter Martin
raderie in what has become a benchmark
affair for anybody interested in fine knives
28220 N. Lake Dr.
and how they’re made. Waterford, WI 53185
The symposium was the last under
“Lord Jim” Batson’s reign as chairman of 262-895-2815
the American Bladesmith Society, a tenure www.petermartinknives.com
that has seen ABS hammer-ins grow
nationwide. In fact, incoming ABS chair-
man Joe Keeslar announced that yet
another forging event which should attract Blade Show
Table #22A

Amy Hinchman of A.G. Russell

Knives shapes the end of a hot billet
into a rough blade tip as ABS master
smith Jerry Fisk looks on in
approval under the forge tent. The
portable forges were supplied by the
Montgomery Group and the
Alabama Forge Council.

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 153

Batson.qxd 5/12/03 7:27 AM Page 154

Dealer Inquiries forge feast

t ’s In Welcome
forge feast

Wha ocket?
ur P
Yo
piranha
knife co.
208.732.5525 • Fax: 208.732.5535 • E-mail: [email protected]

Eight-year-old Gates Jinwright learned

how to forge a blade from 60-year-old
Harry Brock in the hands-on blade-
smithing seminar under the forge tent.
The result was a rough forged blade
and a happy youngster with an experi-
ence he will never forget. Incoming
ABS chairman Joe Keeslar said youth
involvement in bladesmithing will be
one of the organization’s main focal
points under his watch.

knife enthusiasts everywhere will be the

Bill Moran Blade Forging Demonstrations
and Forged Blade Show Oct. 10-12 in
Frederick, Maryland. The event will
include an all-star list of seminars and
demonstrators, a knife show and, the piece
de resistance, a tour of Moran’s knife shop.
Moreover, at press time a similar event was
in the planning stages for spring 2004 near
Philadelphia or in New York state.

“At one point, 69-

. . GRANDE KNIFE & TOOL
. . year-old Doug
OSO
The World’s Leading Specialty Equipment Supplier Hardy had the
fastest time in the
rope cut.”
—the author

In addition to spreading the art of

bladesmithing through new symposiums,
Order Online 24 hours a day at www.osograndeknives.com! Keeslar also wants to open the ABS’s
INFO: 760-747-4600 ORDERS: 1-888-OSO-6050 EMAIL: [email protected] collective arms to the international
SEND $6.00 FOR OUR 136 PAGE CATALOG (Refundable w/ Purchase) PO BOX 462945, ESCONDIDO, CA 92046

154 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

Batson.qxd 5/12/03 4:03 PM Page 155

community and the future of the craft—

children. He said he was in the formative
stages of convincing some ABS members
to go to France and possibly other Euro-
BRIAN TIGHE
pean countries to participate in their knife
www.tigheknives.com
shows and symposiums. At the same time,
he said he hoped European smiths could
return the favor and attend U.S. blade- “My Tighe” Frame Lock with Carbon Fiber Overlay
smithing events. In fact, he indicated that $450.00 3 5/8” Recurve BG-42 Blade, 4 1/2” closed
one Englishman—ABS master smith Jim
Jackson—already has committed to teach-
ing a class at the Bill Moran School of
Bladesmithing this fall.
As for youth involvement, Keeslar
warmed to the topic.
Phone: 905/892-2734 email: [email protected]
“I would like to work through Scout
programs and possibly have a blade-
smithing merit badge established,” he said.
He’s also talked with officials at schools
and 4-H clubs about the possibility of host-
ing forging demonstrations to expose their
respective students and club members to
bladesmithing. “ABANA already has a
blacksmith base established, so maybe we
can work through its chapters to reach
kids,” he noted, adding that ABS members
can also work with their friends and neigh-
bors in their local areas to advance the
bladesmithing cause among youngsters.
“[ABS members] do this already but we
need them to do it more,” Keeslar clarified.
He added that there’s an in-service
program at the Bill Moran School of
Bladesmithing on how to spread the good

See us at the
Blade Show
Booth #40

Kevin Cashen won the cutting

competition with a flat-ground bowie
he named “General Sherman,” a.k.a.
“Bobby Lee.”The 10-inch damascus
blade is 160 layers of O-1 and L-6 in
a reverse twist. The handle is black
paper Micarta®. For a similar piece,
Cashen said his asking price would
be $1,000.

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 155

Batson.qxd 5/7/03 9:46 PM Page 156

forge feast
P JOE

ARDUE
www.PardueKnives.com
forge feast

SHOW
BLADE 1-I
TAB E
L
JOE PARDUE
409-429-7074
P.O. Box 693
Spurger, TX 77660
[email protected]
• DEALER INQUIRIES WELCOMED •

OSBORNE
KNIVES
The Finest In
Folding
Cutlery

“Since 1984”

Glynn Holmes hammers hot chain-

Warren Osborne saw chain during his seminar on
P.O. Box 205, Waxahachie, TX 75168 hands-on bladesmithing as Dale
Tel: (972) 935-0899 • Fax: (972) 937-9004 - Catalog $3.00 Huckabee observes under the
Web: http://www.osborneknive.com E-mail: [email protected] forge tent.

word of bladesmithing to children—

Introducing The Raven Combat including safety issues, how to involve
7” Blade 12 5/8” overall 530-V Rc 59-60 parents and how to work one-one-one and
G-10 Gunner Grip™ Handles in small groups. And, to put his money
Blackhawk Sheath where his mouth is, Keeslar will conduct a
$299.00 seminar entitled “Bladesmithing For Kids”
Combat Tested in Afghanistan at the 22nd Annual BLADE Show June 13-
15 at the Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta
(for more on it, see the special stories this
issue).
Simonich Knives LLC Learning & Cutting
Box 278 While youth was being served, blade-
Clancy, MT 59634
(406) 933-9151
smithing veterans and novices and
www.simonichknives.com anybody curious as to how their favorite
E-Mail: [email protected] knives are made were treated to such semi-
nars as forging medieval axes, knife grind-
ing, LinerLocks® and automatics,
traditional Japanese silk-wrapped handles
and many more at the Batson Blade-
smithing Symposium.
And, in what has become one of the top
international cutting competitions, Kevin
Cashen took home f irst place with his
“General Sherman” bowie the Saturday
night of the symposium. John Fitch
finished second with “Jerry’s Revenge”
and Jim Crowell (“Jerry’s Revenge”—
different knife, same name) and Mike
Bauer (“Collateral Damage”) tied for third.
As usual, the competition was fierce as
21 contestants vied under the lights outside
871 Broadway At 18th St., N.Y.C., 10003 (212) 255-8036
Visa/Diners/AE/MC/Discover Mon.-Sat. 10-8, Sun. 11:30-7
the Tannehill Ironworks’ Forge Pavilion.
www.paragonsports.com The knives, of course, must meet certain

156 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

Batson.qxd 5/7/03 9:46 PM Page 157

Cutting Competition Contestants & Their Cutters*

Jim Batson Sir Kuts-A-Lot (5160) Technology with an Edge

Harry Brock Old & Ugly (52100)
Robert Rossdeutscher El Ojo del Toro (lawn-mower blade)
Ray Pieper Valris (5160)
Jamie Boley Bloodhound (5160)
The Technology.. Kershaw’s Ken Onion Echo
Max Goodman Old Blue (52100)
Terry Vandeventer Karl (1095/15N20 damascus)
Jon Fincher Joe (5160)
Doug Hardy N-2 (L-6) The Edge.................• Sleek, sure-grip handle
Harold Herron Indigestion (5160) • Ergonomic design
Wes Byrd Ugly Sucker • Kershaw’s “shaving-sharp”
Kevin Cashen General Sherman (O-1/L-6 damascus) edge
Jim Crowell Jerry’s Revenge (1084) • Lifetime guarantee
John Fitch Jerry’s Revenge (1084)
Reggie Barker Dixie Chick Chopper
Marvin Foxworth Beaver Cleaver II (4680)
Mardi Meshejian Cross-eyed Weasel (4130/1095 damascus)
James Gibson Tennessee Trotter (1084)
Mike Bauer Collateral Damage (5160)
Robert Washburn Nick The Knife (5160)
*Where known, blade steel is in parentheses.

length and construction requirements. The Each year, the names of the knives
individual cutting/chopping events often elicit guffaws from the audience, and
included the standard 2x4 chop and free- this year was no different. The loudest
hanging rope cut, as well as the woven laughs came when Reggie Barker’s “Dixie
fiberglass mat slice, “chewbone chop” and Chick Chopper” was announced. (For a
hanging-plastic-water-bottle cut. The 2x4 complete list of contestants and their
chop gauges edge geometry, edge holding, knives’ names and blade steels, see the
handle design and balance, and the rope sidebar.) There was also a lot of good
cut tests edge geometry. natured kidding when Cashen’s “General
The mat slice—slicing four slivers of Sherman” bowie was introduced, the
mat a half-inch wide or less—gauges edge symposium being held in the “Heart of
geometry and edge holding. It was held Dixie” and all. Kevin never blinked an eye,
during the beginning of the competition so though, and even agreed to give the knife
that it would take the edge off those knives the alias of “Bobby Lee” after he took first
that didn’t hold an edge well. The chew- place in the competition.
bone chop—cutting a hard rawhide doggie Next year, Batson said he will let the
chewbone in half—tests edge geometry entrants suggest some of the cutting events
and edge holding, and knife balance and themselves. Meanwhile, Fisk announced
design. Cutting the plastic water bottle that the top four finishers in ABS cutting
hung by a thread tests sharpness and competitions nationwide over the past
design. It was held last to see how sharp year—Kevin Cashen, John Fitch, Mike
the knives were at the end of the competi- Bauer and Ray Kirk, plus a wild card, Jim Model 1070
tion. Crowell—will compete in the “First ABS
MSRP $44.95
A test of both the knife and the ability World Championship Cutting Competition:
of the user, the Batson version of the The Finals” at the BLADE Show. (For Blade......4 in. (10.2cm.)
competition is also entertainment at its more on it, see the special BLADE Show Steel.......AUS8A stainless
finest, as Fisk, equipped with a wireless preview stories this issue.) Handle...Polyamide
microphone, maintained a running Overall...8 5/8 in. (22cm.)
dialogue throughout with contestants and For information on next year’s Batson Weight...4.8 oz.
audience alike. Bladesmithing Symposium, contact Jim
Another highlight is the contestants Batson, Dept. BL8, 176 Brentwood, Madi-
themselves. Ranging in age from 15-year- son, AL 35758 (205) 971-6860. For infor-
old Jon Fincher to 71-year-old Max Good- mation on the Bill Moran Blade Forging
man, they ran the gamut in years and Demonstrations and Forged Blade Show
physical types. At one point, 69-year-old and other ABS events, contact the ABS,
Doug Hardy had the fastest time in the attn: J. DuBois, Dept. BL8, POB 1481, For information or a dealer near you, call:
rope cut—eventually finishing third in that Cypress, TX 77410-1481 (281) 225-9159 1-800-325-2891
particular event—with his bowie aptly www.americanbladesmith.com. www.kershawknives.com
named N-2, as in cut “in two.”

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 157

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GALLERY.qxd 5/12/03 8:29 AM Page 2

handmade
handmade gallery

gallery
Old
Steven Rapp does the Michael Price
legacy proud with a reproduction of a
Price dagger that involves Julie
Warenski engraving, gold quartz
inlays and a gold-wrapped handle.
Rapp’s address: Dept. BL8, 7273 S.

West 245 E, Midvale, UT 84047 (801) 567-

9553. (PointSeven photo)

Zest
Buster Warenski captures the
Michael Price style of dagger, The work of Charles Weiss mani-
fully engraved by Julie Warenski, fests itself in a California-style
and showcasing sugilite and bowie featuring a 7 1/2-inch Jerry
silver-wire inlays. Buster and Rados damascus blade, and an
Julie’s address: Dept. BL8, POB engraved handle and sheath, both
214, Richfield, UT 84701 (435) inlaid with black jade. Weiss’s
896-5319. (PointSeven photo) address: Dept. BL8, 18847 N. 13th
Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85027 (623) 582-
6147. (PointSeven photo)

They’re called California knives. Made by

the likes of Michael Price, Will & Finck, M.J.
Hayes and others in the mid-to-late 19th century,
they conjure visions of the Gold Rush days, faro
dealers in smoke-filled saloons and more. Repro-
duced here, each maintains an Old West zest.
160 / BLADE AUGUST 2003
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(Above) Eleven inches of Michael Price-style

bowie is what Steve Dunn accomplished using a Twenty rubies, gold and fossil walrus
52100 blade and an ivory handle with an intricate ivory reveal themselves in Rick
pin pattern. Dunn’s address: Dept. BL8, 376 Dunkerley’s version of a Michael Price
Biggerstaff Rd., Smiths Grove, KY 42171 (270) knife with a damascus blade and
563-9830. (PointSeven photo) handle frame. Dunkerley’s address:
Dept. BL8, Box 111, Lincoln, MT 59639
(406) 362-3097. (PointSeven photo)

(Right) Mick Penfold’s San

Francisco-style bowie
incorporates an 8-inch,
satin-finished ATS-34
blade, 416 stainless steel
bolsters engraved by Terry
Wallace and a giraffe-bone
handle. Penfold’s address:
Dept. BL8, 131 Mojave Ct.,
Vacaville, CA 95688 (707)
448-0584.(BladeGallery.
com photo)

(Left) Mike Williams makes a California-

style dagger featuring a 9 1/2-inch 1084
and 15N20 damascus blade, an ivory
handle and engraving by Billy Bates.
Williams’ address: Dept. BL8, Rt. 4, Box
64-1, Broken Bow, OK 74728 (580) 494-
6326. (PointSeven photo)

AUGUST 2003 BLADE / 161

hothandmade.qxd 5/7/03 10:13 AM Page 86

hot handmade
hot handmade

Owen Wood’s
collaboration
with Dan
Kronberg takes
art knives and
guards to a
new level

A bronze guard in the shape of a

rose branch and a pommel in
the shape of a rose, both cast by
Dan Kronberg, highlight Owen
Wood’s dazzling art dagger.
Note the thorns on the branched
guard. (PointSeven photo)

A
remarkable rose-branch art dagger the fullers just right, he finally arrived at
Spec Check that stopped many show-goers in the blade he wanted. It’s a composite of
their tracks at the recent East Coast three steels—left- and right-hand twists of
Custom Knife Show is a collaboration damascus and five waves of nickel, the
Knife Art dagger among knifemaker Owen Wood, one of his latter in the area of the machined and
Maker Owen Wood clients and Dan Kronberg. polished double fullers, fashioned in waves
Blade Material Three-steel damascus Wood’s client drew a sketch of the rose- to emulate the curves in the branches of the
composite, including five waves of branch guard, and he and Wood modified guard.
nickel down the center the drawing into the blueprint for the final The maker said he planned to do more
Blade Length 10” product. Wood met Kronberg, who special- cast-bronze-guard projects with Kronberg,
Handle Fossil walrus ivory izes in casting miniature animals in bronze, including one in a dolphin motif and
Guard Bronze cast in the shape of a through knifemaker Bob Terzuola. Kron- another based on a unicorn theme.
rose branch by Dan Kronberg berg cast both the guard and rose pommel
Pommel Bronze rose petal, also cast in bronze. For more information contact Owen Wood,
by Kronberg Wood carried the concept of the rose Dept. BL8, 6492 Garrison, Arvada, CO
Maker’s List Price For A Similar branch into the blade. Doing some practice 80004 (303) 456-2748 (phone/fax).
Piece $6,500-$7,000 runs in aluminum until he got the depth of

162 / BLADE AUGUST 2003

937517_BL.qxd 4/30/03 5:46 AM Page 1

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