No.08.2012 Knives Illustrated - November

KI-1211-COVER.
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NOVEMBER 2012 DISPLAY UNTIL: 01/15/13

VOLUME 26, NO. 8 $5.99 U.S.
knivesillustrated.com
KI_1211_C2 9/25/12 3:40 AM Page C2
U.S.A. MADE PRO

Making Pattern 22 Making Pattern 23 Making Pattern 32
Our J2308 440C satin nish blade shown above is completed

Illustrated above G2231 Orange G10 Basket Weave texture with the K233 Brass Bolster and 1/4" Brass B660 Corby Rivets Pictured above is our J3248 154C
preshaped handles, J2208 440C satin nished blade, K226 Fasteners. Fitted with our D2325 Rosewood Dymondwood Brass Bolster and 1/8" Brass Pin
Stainless Steel Bolster and A461 1/4" Stainless Steel T6 Torx preshaped handle, sanded and buffed to a high nish. Ink Walnut Dymondwood preshap
Fasteners. to a high nish.
Pattern 22 Blades Pattern 23 Blades
Pattern 32 Blades
Pattern 23 blades are cryogenically processed during heat

Pattern 22, our most popular hunter blade, is cryogenically
treated and razor sharp. The blade is at ground for strength. treating and at ground for optimal edge holding. Overall length
Overall length 8 3/8", Blade Length 3 1/2", Blade Width 1 3/32", 9 9/16", Blade Length 4 5/8", Blade Width 1", Blade Thickness
5/32". Bolster holes 1/8", Handle Holes 1/4", Thong Hole 1/4". Pattern 32 blades are cryogeni
Blade Thickness 5/32". Bolster holes 1/8", Handle Holes 1/4",
Available in 440C, D2 and offered in peened or satin nish. treating for optimal edge holdi
Thong Hole 1/4". Available in 440C, D2 and offered in peened
Overall length 7 5/8", Blade Len
or satin nish. CAT.# STEEL FINISH TEMPER HRC PRICE
Blade Thickness 1/8". Bolster h
CAT.# STEEL FINISH TEMPER HRC PRICE J2308 440C Satin Cryo 57-58 29.95
Thong Hole 1/4". Available in D2
J2208 440C Satin Cryo 57-58 29.95 J2328 D2 Satin Cryo 59-61 29.95
peened or satin nish..
J2228 D2 Satin Cryo 59-61 29.95
Torx Fasteners Handles CAT.# STEEL FINISH TE
Bolsters
J3228 D2 Satin C
J3248 154CM Satin C
J3208 440C Satin C
Orange G10 - Honeycomb J3289 Damascus Etched C
Olive Drab G10 - Basket Weave J3298 1095 Satin C
J329K 1095 Black C
Bolsters are offered in 260 Torx Screw assembly includes J329G 1095 Green C
brass and 410 stainless, two 1/4" stepped brass J329T 1095 Tan C
both with matching pins. In bushings and four T6 torx
two thickness 3/16" for G10 screws. Use with G10 and
Micarta textured handles. Blue G10 - Honeycomb Red G10 - Honeycomb
contoured handles and 1/4" Bolsters
for Dymondwood handles. CAT.# TYPE ALLOY PRICE Contoured & Textured Handles for Pattern 22 and Pattern
Listed below. B451 Torx Brass 3.95 23. Dymondwood handles are smooth with no texture. The
CAT.# THICK ALLOY PRICE A461 Torx Stainless 4.95 G10 handles are available in Basket Weave and Honeycomb
textures. Cut slightly oversize for proper tting to blade and
K211 3/16" Brass 6.95 Corby Fasteners bolster.
K216 3/16" Stainless 6.95
K213 1/4" Brass 6.95 CAT.# COLOR MATERIAL TEXTURE PRICE
K214 1/4" Stainless 6.95 D2125 Rosewood Dymondwood None 16.95
D2149 Black Ink Cocobolo Dymondwood None 16.95
Thong Tubing Corby assembly includes two G2111 Black G10 Basket Weave 21.95 C
Optional thong hole tubing is G2131 Orange G10 Basket Weave 21.95
1/4" brass bushings and two Bolsters are oversize, for
listed below. Use TM64 drill to G2151 Olive Drab G10 Basket Weave 21.95
1/4" corby rivets. Use with proper tting and include two A
drill handles. G2123 Red G10 Honeycomb 21.95
Dymondwood handles for matching pins. Customers
CAT.# DIA. ALLOY PRICE ush surface. G2133 Orange G10 Honeycomb 21.95
G2143 Blue G10 Honeycomb 21.95 generally t bolsters and
B210 1/4" Brass .75 CAT.# TYPE ALLOY PRICE polish front edges before
A210 1/4" Stainless .99 peening it to the blade.
O
B660 Corby Brass 3.49
TM64 .252" HSS Drill 3.25
A624 Corby Stainless 3.49
Making Pattern 45 CAT.# THICK ALLOY PRICE
l
d
Making Pattern 44 K323 3/16" Brass 6.95
C
K324 3/16" Stainless 6.95
B
A
T
The photo above shows our completed J4508 440C satin nish
The photo above shows our J4408 440C satin nish blade blade. Braided with PC127 Desert Camo and PC102 Black Handles
completed with PC125 Imperial Red Paracord. Paracord.
Pattern 44 Blades Pattern 45 Blades
Black Ink Walnut Dymondwood

Pattern 44 at ground blades. Overall length 6 1/2", Blade
Pattern 45 blades. Overall length 7 3/16", Blade Length 3 1/4", Contoured & Textured Handles fo
Length 2 1/2", Blade Width 1 1/8", Blade Thickness 1/8".
Blade Width 1 1/16", Blade Thickness 1/8". Available in D2, handles are smooth with no te
Available in D2, 440C and offered in peened, satin or Teon
440C and offered in peened, satin or coated nish. available in Basket Weave texture
coated nish.
CAT.# STEEL FINISH TEMPER HRC PRICE CAT.# STEEL FINISH TEMPER HRC PRICE CAT.# COLOR MATE
J4408 440C Satin Cryo 57-58 29.95 J4508 440C Satin Cryo 59-61 29.95 D3251 Black Ink Walnut Dymond
J4428 D2 Satin Cryo 59-61 29.95 J4528 D2 Satin Cryo 59-61 39.95 D3253 Black Ink Rosewood Dymond
J4498 1095 Satin Cryo 57-58 29.95 J4598 1095 Satin Cryo 57-58 29.95 G3211 Black G1
J449K 1095 Black Cryo 57-58 29.95 J459K 1095 Black Cryo 57-58 29.95 G3221 Red G1
J449G 1095 Green Cryo 57-58 29.95 J459G 1095 Green Cryo 57-58 29.95 G3231 Orange G1
J449T 1095 Tan Cryo 57-58 29.95 J459T 1095 Tan Cryo 57-58 29.95 G3251 Olive Drab G1
KI_1211_3 9/25/12 3:39 AM Page 3
ODUCTS BY JANTZ
Making Pattern 31 PAT T ERN 31
DAMASCUS
Our Completed J3148 154CM satin nish blade with K316
154CM
8 154CM satin nish blade with K323
ss Pins. Handled with D3251 Black
Stainless Bolster and A461 1/4" Stainless Torx Screw Fasteners.
The handle is M3131 Red Linen Micarta with Basket Weave
1095
eshaped handle, sanded and buffed texture, sanded and buffed to a high nish. D2
Pattern 31 Blades
Pattern 31 at ground blades are cryogenically processed during

yogenically processed during heat heat treating for optimal edge holding capability. Overall length
holding capability. Flat Ground. 7 5/8", Blade Length 3", Blade Width 1 1/8", Blade Thickness
e Length 3 1/8", Blade Width 1", 5/32". Bolster holes 1/8", Handle Holes 1/4", Thong Hole 1/4".
ster holes 1/8", Handle Holes 1/8", Available in D2, 154CM and offered in peened or satin nish.
in D2, 154CM, 440C and offered in
CAT.# STEEL FINISH TEMPER HRC PRICE
J3128 D2 Satin Cryo 59-61 29.95
TEMPER HRC PRICE J3148 154CM Satin Cryo 58-59 34.95
Cryo 59-61 29.95 J3189 Damascus Etched Cryo 58-60 69.95
Cryo 58-59 34.95 J3198 1095 Satin Cryo 57-58 29.95
Cryo 57-58 29.95 J319K 1095 Black Cryo 57-58 29.95
Cryo 58-60 59.95 J319G 1095 Green Cryo 57-58 29.95
Cryo 57-58 29.95 J319T 1095 Tan Cryo 57-58 29.95
Cryo 57-58 29.95
Cryo 57-58 29.95 Bolsters Torx Fasteners
Cryo 57-58 29.95
Fasteners
Bolsters are offered in 260 Torx Screw assembly includes
brass and 410 stainless, two 1/4" stepped brass
both with matching pins. In bushings and four T6 torx
two thickness 3/16" for G10 screws. Use with G10 and
Package of 6 handle pins contoured handles and 1/4" Micarta textured handles.
for Dymondwood handles.
available in brass and CAT.# TYPE ALLOY PRICE
stainless steel. Listed below.
CAT.# THICK ALLOY PRICE B451 Torx Brass 3.95
CAT.# SIZE ALLOY PRICE A461 Torx Stainless 4.95
K311 3/16" Brass 6.95
for B826 1/8 Brass 1.99
wo A846 1/8 Stainless 1.99
K316 3/16" Stainless 6.95 Corby Fasteners
K313 1/4" Brass 6.95
ers K314 1/4" Stainless 6.95
nd Thong Tubing
ore
Optional thong hole tubing is
Thong Tubing
listed below. Use TM64 drill to Optional thong hole tubing is Corby assembly includes two
CE drill handles for tubing. listed below. Use TM64 drill to 1/4" brass bushings and two
1/4" corby rivets. Use with
95 drill handles.
CAT.# DIA. ALLOY PRICE Dymondwood handles for
95 CAT.# DIA. ALLOY PRICE
B320 1/4" Brass .75 ush surface.
B310 1/4" Brass .75 CAT.# TYPE ALLOY PRICE
A320 1/4" Stainless .99
A310 1/4" Stainless .99
TM64 .252" HSS Drill 3.25 B660 Corby Brass 3.49
TM64 .252" HSS Drill 3.25
A624 Corby Stainless 3.49
Handles
Orange G10 - Basket Weave
Black G10- Basket Weave
wood Black Ink Cocobolo Dymondwood

dles for Pattern 32. Dymondwood
no texture. The G10 handles are
Contoured & Textured Handles for Pattern 31. Dymondwood
handles are smooth with no texture. The Micarta and G10 knifemaking.com
1-800-351-8900
exture. handles are available in Basket Weave texture.
MATERIAL TEXTURE PRICE CAT.# COLOR MATERIAL TEXTURE PRICE
JANTZ
ymondwood None 16.95 D3149 Black Ink Cocobolo Dymondwood None 16.95
ymondwood None 16.95 M3131 Red Linen Micarta Basket Weave 16.95
G10 Basket Weave 21.95 G3111 Black G10 Basket Weave 21.95
G10 Basket Weave 21.95 G3131 Orange G10 Basket Weave 21.95
G10 Basket Weave 21.95 G3151 Olive Drab G10 Basket Weave 21.95
G10 Basket Weave 21.95 G3161 Blue/Black G10 Basket Weave 21.95
KI-1211-TOC.CX-tracy[3].qxp 10/2/12 10:57 PM Page 4
NOVEMBER 2012
VOLUME 26, NO. 8
www.knivesillustrated.com
10
COVER STORY
14 Up To Shenanigans
Ken Onions new flipper folders for Columbia River Knife and Tool
are lightweight and quick
By KI Staff
FEATURES
16 Knife Groups In 4,000 Words Or Less
If a picture is worth 1,000 words, here are 4,000 words
worth of knife photos
By J. Bruce Voyles
20 What Makes A Good Tactical Knife?

By Jim Weiss and Mickey Davis
28 Double Up! Only Two Makers

Become Mastersmiths
The 2012 Mastersmiths class is Gary House and Daniel Warren 14
By B.R. Hughes
36 Mean And Pretty

The knives of Trace Rinaldi are useful tools for the real world
By Les Robertson
48 Zombie Knives
The right knives for the apocalypse: December 21, 2012
By Clint Thompson
54 Steel Canvas
Art in the media of steel
By J. Bruce Voyles
62 Transcending Traditional Knives

There is a reason why knife designs still prosper after 100 years
By J. Bruce Voyles
48
72 Unique & Innovative
Mantis Knives: Edgy designs combined with utility
By Abe Elias
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED (ISSN 0898-8943) Vol. 26, No. 8 is published 9 times a year, January/February,
April, May, June/July, August, September, October, November and December, by Beckett Media, LLC, 72
22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, #200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887. Periodical postage paid at Yorba Linda, CA,
and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Knives Illustrated c/o Beckett
Media, 5430 LBJ Freeway, Ste 1200, Dallas, TX 75240. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to:
PITNEY BOWES, INC, P.O. Box 25542, London, ON N6C 6B2 GST#855050365RT001 2012 by
Beckett Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue in whole or in part is
strictly prohibited.
4 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED NOVEMBER 2012 knivesillustrated.com

KI_1211_5 9/25/12 3:24 AM Page 5
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KI-1211-TOC.CX-tracy[3].qxp 10/2/12 10:57 PM Page 6
NOVEMBER 2012
Volume 26 Number 8
EDITORIAL
Editorial Director: Doug Jeffrey
Editor: J. Bruce Voyles
Managing Editor: Jeffrey Rick
Art Director: Ronald Abella
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
James Batson, Abe Elias, B.R. Hughes, Mac Overton,
J.B. Wood, Doc Wacholz, Clint Thompson,
Les RobertsonCustom Knife Field Editor 10
ADVERTISING
Gabe Frimmel: Ad Sales Director
(714) 200-1930 GFrimmel@beckett.com
David Beckler: Outdoor Group Director
(972) 448-9173
Casey Clifford: Senior Account Executive
(717) 896-8956
COLUMNS
OPERATIONS 8 Q&A
Gus Alonzo: Newsstand Sales Manager Prince Albert-promoted knives make a great mini-collection
Celia Merriday: Newsstand Analyst
Amit Sharma: Newsstand & Production Analyst By J. Bruce Voyles
Alberto Chavez: Senior Logistics & Facilities Manager
John Cabral: Creative Graphic Designer
9 Guess The Maker
EDITORIAL, PRODUCTION Name the maker and you could win a free subscription
& SALES OFFICE
22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, #200 By Jim Cooper
Yorba Linda, CA 92887
(714) 939-9991
Fax: (800) 249-7761
www.knivesillustrated.com
10 Points Of Interest 62
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED (ISSN 0898-8943) Vol. 26, No. 8 is pub- New knives and new happenings within
lished 9 times a year, January/February, April, May, June/July,
August, September, October, November and December, by the world of knives
Beckett Media, LLC, 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, #200, Yorba By Karen Wilhelmsen
Linda, CA 92887. Periodical postage paid at Yorba Linda, CA,
and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address
changes to Knives Illustrated c/o Beckett Media, 5430 LBJ
Freeway, Ste 1200, Dallas, TX 75240. Return undeliverable 13 Tips: Knife Storage
Canadian addresses to: PITNEY BOWES, INC, P.O. Box Theres more to it than oiling the blade
25542, London, ON N6C 6B2 GST#855050365RT001 2012
by Beckett Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any By J. Bruce Voyles
material from this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.
CUSTOMER SERVICE 44 Quiz: Test Your Knife IQ

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4635 Mc Ewen Road. Dallas, TX 75244 Match the bios with the knives of The ABS Members
SUBSCRIPTIONS, ADDRESS CHANGES, of the Cutlery Hall of Fame
RENEWALS, MISSING OR DAMAGED COPIES By KI Staff
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customerservice@beckett.com 80 Shows
BACK ISSUES Knife show calendar of upcoming events
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BOOKS, MERCHANDISE, REPRINTS
(239) 280-2380 81 The Legal Edge
DEALER SALES
By Karen Wilhelmsen
(239) 280-2380
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR, NEW PRODUCTS OR

TO CONTRIBUTE A STORY OR PHOTO
82 On The Edge: Knife Kindness
Bruce Voyles By J. Bruce Voyles
22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, #200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887
bvoyles@beckett.com
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Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608 On The Cover: Columbia

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: River Knife & Tools
PITNEY BOWES, INC.
P.O. Box 25542 Shenanigan folders are
London, ON N6C 6B2 designed by Hall of Famer
This magazine is purchased by the buyer with the understanding that Ken Onion. (Photo by
information presented is from various sources from which there can be Terrill Hoffman)
no warranty or responsibility by Beckett Media, LLC as to the legality,
completeness or technical accuracy.

KI_1211_7.qxp 9/25/12 3:25 AM Page 7
KI-1211-QA.qxp 9/25/12 3:55 AM Page 8
Q&A
Great Mini Collectible
Text and Photos by J. Bruce Voyles The back of a
Prince Albert
Q: I have a tobacco tin

showing the
Prince Albert labels for
knives offer.
tobacco can with
knives on it.
Who made those
knives?
A: Because of their color, eye appeal and
attainability, Prince Albert knives are
among the best miniature collectibles. R.J.
Reynolds first produced Prince Albert
smoking tobacco in 1906, offering pre-cut
tobacco in a handy carrying tin for those
who preferred to roll their own. Prince Al-
bert became of interest to cutlery enthusi-
asts in the mid-1960s with a promotional
offer for knives. Send in five wrappers plus
$2 and receive your choice of three avail-
able knives. The unique fact that this offer
was part of the painted covering of the tin
has allowed these rare forms of metal cut-
lery advertising to still be available for
those willing to search.
Schrade produced the knives under their
Ulster trademarkall bearing the Old
Timer shield. For collectors, this was one
of the few times that Old Timer was com- PRINCE ALBERT IN A CAN
bined with the Ulster mark. Old Timer By J. Bruce Voyles
knives almost always bear the Schrade My parents ran a small grocery store in very rural North Carolina. It was during
name. The choices included a 10-OT Bar- my childhood that phone lines were first extended into our out-of-the-way corner of
low, 58-OT serpentine stockman (identified the state, and with our store among the first to have a telephone, I assigned myself
as a whittler in the ads), and a 50-OT the job of answering it.
scout utility pattern. And it was there that I learned about Prince Albert smoking tobacco. I received a
This marketing experiment began with a call. Do you have Prince Albert in a can? the voice asked.
modest total of 1,200 knives, but by 1971 Mom, do we have Prince Albert? I asked.
the tally had reached 30,000 scout knives, Sure, son, its right there on the shelf, she said pointing.
Yes we do, I answered the caller.
46,000 Barlows and 243,000 three-blade
Well, you better let him out! Hell smother!
serpentines. In the end, some 400,000 Laughter and a click followed. Thus was my first introduction to Prince Albert
knives were produced, and at one time and to prank phone calls.
there were three people within Schrade
fulfilling the orders. version and one with a starburst on the

THE NUMBERS Although the offer officially ended in
1974, Imperial-Schrade was still honoring
front announcing the knife offer. It is not
uncommon to see vendors at knife shows
Original quantity ordered:
1,200 knives the offer until 2004 when the company offering both cans and the three knives as
1971 Tally: 30,000 scout knives ceased operations at their factory in El- a group.
46,000 Barlows lenville, New York. Old Timer and Ulster are registered
243,000 three-blade serpentines There are two major variations in the trademarks of Taylor Brands, LLC of
Prince Albert cans of this period: a plain Kingsport, Tennessee. KI

KI-1211-GUESS.qxp 9/25/12 3:57 AM Page 9
Guess The Maker

Text and Photos by Jim Cooper
Who Will Be The Next Winner?

A free one-year subscription to the first reader to correctly guess this knifemaker!
Two Knives for

One Issue!
The appeal of guessing two knives in the last is-
sue instead of just one resulted in the most entries
since we began running this column. The distinc-
tive tactical was made by Jerry Hossom. We re-
ceived several comments from the entrants about
his knives:
Im a huge fan of his work.
Ive had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Jerry

Hossom at Blade one year. As with most of Guess the maker of this knife and be eligible to win a one-year subscrip-
the extremely successful makers Ive had the tion to KI, Gun World or Bow and Arrow Hunting. Your hint? He was origi-
privilege to meet, he was wonderful to talk nally a vintage knife collector.
to.
The combination of blade curves and

unique handle style are distinctively his.
Jay Hendrickson is the maker

HOW WE DRAW of this hunter, which displays
The method we use to determine who wins among the cor- his unique style and still shows
rect entries: The entries are placed in numerical order, and a some of the influence of his
mentor, W.R. Moran.
random number is generated by a random number-generating
website (www.random.org).
We did get two
correct entries on the
Jerry Hossom knife.
WHAT YOU WIN, HOW TO WIN Eric OConnell was
The first winner for each knife will receive a one-year the first correct en-
subscription to Knives Illustrated. If you already receive KI, try, and David Hare of
you can have your choice of extending your subscription or re- Delaplane, Virginia,
ceiving a one-year subscription to one of our sister publica- was the winner
tions (Gun World or Bow & Arrow Hunting). among the random This distinctive tactical knife was
drawing of correct made by Jerry Hossom.
Among the correct entries, we will also draw for a second
winner. So be sure to enter, even if you are not the first one to entries.
respond. Pat Burris was the first correct entry for the other knife
Send your guesses to bvoyles@beckett.com a Jay Hendrickson hunter. At press time, he was the only
Please mention promotional code A713LO11-NOVEMBER correct entry, so we will be holding the random drawing
for an additional winner in the next issue.
Winners are limited to one win every 12 months
KI
knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED NOVEMBER 2012 9

KI-1211-POI.qxp 9/25/12 4:00 AM Page 10
Points Of Interest
By Karen Wilhelmsen
Photos courtesy of the manufacturers
Discover The Conspiracy

Benchmades H&K Conspiracy Turns Heads
Benchmade
www.benchmade.com
Model: Heckler & Koch Conspiracy (fixed blade, plain edge)
14101BT
MSRP: $80
Heckler & Koch, a brand mainly associated with the quality
firearms they produce, use their same high standards in the cre-
ation of their knives as wellsupplied for the demands of shoot-
ers, elite military and police unit around the globe. When H&K Conspiracy Specs:
teamed up with Benchmade, well, I guess you can call it a match Blade length: 4 4/5 inches
made in heaven. The birth of the Conspiracy is the result of this Blade steel: 9CR13 stainless steel
harmonious union, and this knife features a plain edge and fixed Overall length: 9 inches
blade, with high-traction, black G-10 handle scales. It handles as Blade style: Tanto
well as it looks. Weight: 11.22 ounces
Ready For Battle Happy Campers

The CBF [Combat Fixed Blade] By Gerber Is Indestructible The Outdoor Edge Outpak Is A Hunters Dream
Gerber Outdoor Edge Cutlery Corp.

www.gerbergear.com www.outdooredge.com
Model: CBF (combat fixed blade) Model: The Outpak
MSRP: Varies per retailer MSRP: $159.95
Gerbers CBF is built to handle whatever you
can throw its way while youre in the field. Its
tough, and reliable because the full-tang stain-
less steel knife features a 154CM high-carbon
tanto blade, for hackin and slashin your way
through just about anything. Use it for cutting,
prying, slicing and scraping. The lower portion
of the blade is serrated, the knife has a rubber-
ized grip and a blunt pommel, and it comes with
a molded plastic sheath for several carry options
on a belt or MOLLE compatible vest. If your daily The Outdoor Edge Outpak is the perfect gift for any
use requires getting down to business, meet hunter on your holiday gift list. This is because the Out-
your new best friend. pak is a big game set, all organized in an easy-to-carry
case. This handy dandy set includes gut-
CBF Specs: hook/skinner/caper combo, axe, wood bone saw,
Blade length: 4 1/4 inches ribcage spreader, folding boning knife, ceramic sharp-
Blade steel: 154CM high carbon steel ener, pen, tape measure, flagging tape, sip-ties and
Overall length: 9 1/4 inches game cleaning gloves; all in a roll-pack organizer with
Blade style: Tanto compartments. Easily cinch the organizer to a backpack
Weight: 4.9 ounces with the condura straps, and youre ready for the time
of your life hunting and camping in the great outdoors.

KI-1211-POI.qxp 9/25/12 4:00 AM Page 11
Bang For Your Buck

THE CREDIT CARD KNIFE CUTS
CLEAN SWIPES
Boker
www.boker.de/us
Model: Boker Plus Credit Card
Knife
MSRP: $34.95
The Boker Plus Credit Card Knife has a slim, unique
look designed by knifemaker John Kubasek. Its compact
profile and removable pocket clip provides a variety of Credit Card Knife
carry options, even in a credit card slot in your wallet. Or, Specs:
you can carry it with a clip in the pocket of your shirt, or Blade length: 2 1/4 inches
a ball chain (included) around your neck. Other features Blade steel: 440C stainless steel
include the sturdy frame lock mechanism, titanium liner, Overall length: 5 inches
stainless steel blade, finger coils and a G-10 handle. Its Grip: G-10
easy to carry with you every day, in any way you like. All Weight: 1.1 ounces
1.1 ounces of the knife are light and discreet.
Military In Mind Add It To Your Collection

Kershaws Knife Utility And Personal Carry Knife Cases Rough Black Canoe Is A Beauty
Kershaw Knives W.R. Case

www.kershawknives.com www.wrcase.com
Model: Military Knife Model: Rough Black Canoe
MSRP: $64.95 MSRP: Varies per retailer
The Military Knife by Kershaw utilizes a The Case Rough Black Canoe
simple shape for the maneuverability and features spear and pen
functionality that a personal carrying and utili- blades, and a handle in-
ty knife is expected to be. Drop-forged from spired by Gum Fud-
1.4116 German molybdenum/vanadium stain- dy knives. This
less steel, its built to maintain its sharp edge. term comes from
The finish is bead-blasted, matte gray and the vintage Case
non-reflective. The grip has steel, riveted POM pocketknives that
scales for a secure fit, with a handle design were created from new
and net-finish for a variety of grip styles. The materials during WWII. It was
multi-carry sheath makes it all the more func- then that Case developers began us-
tional, due to its quick-release, slim design for ing a hard, synthetic material with jigging patterns
carrying under a coat, on a belt, or strapped to on the surface, whats called Rough Black or what was
a leg or arm. nicknamed Gum Fuddy. Today, the recent Rough Black
family features eight different styles, with jigged handles,
Military Knife Specs: Tru-Sharp surgical steel blades, nickel/silver bolsters, and a
Blade length: 4 1/2 inches Case oval shield. The Canoe is one of eight in this family.
Blade steel: 1.4116 high-carbon German
stainless steel, bead-blasted finish Did You Know?
Overall length: 9 inches The term Gum Fuddy originated during WWIIs incep-
Grip: POM scales tion, when Case product developers utilized a new, synthet-
Weight: 4.4 ounces ic material for its handles, as raw materials became scarce
or off limits due to the war effort.
knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED NOVEMBER 2012 1 1

KI-1211-POI.qxp 9/25/12 4:00 AM Page 12
Points of Interest
Damascus Design
SOGs Arcitech Is One Of Their Finest
SOG Specialty Knives & Tools

www.sogknives.com
Model: Arcitech (Damascus)
MSRP: $624
The new SOG Arcitech reveals a stunning Japanese Damascus Arcitech Specs:
that uses a core of VG-10 and 15 layers of nickel and stainless Blade length: 3 1/2 inches
steel on either side. The steel is forged and folded again, and Blade steel: VG-10 Stainless and Nickel Damascus
again, and again, repeatedly, to produce the unique layered pat- Overall length: 8 inches
tern. The last step in its production is acid etching so the pattern is Grip: Carbon fiber
more vivid, and the carbon and nickel become black. The result? Weight: 4 1/2 ounces
See for yourself.
Did You Know?
The Damascus pattern comes from layers of different steels being forged and folded over and over to produce a layering pattern,
which is later acid-etched to become more vibrant and to make the carbon and nickel pop.
Lightweight Liaison A Traditional Fixed Blade

TOPS/Bucks CSAR-T Provides A Helping Hand Spyderco Puukko For Outdoor Fun
TOPS/Buck Spyderco
www.buckknives.com www.spyderco.com
Model: CSAR-T Liaison Model: Puukko
MSRP: $65 MSRP: $349.95
The TOPS/Buck CSAR-T Liaison is recommended as The Spyderco Puukko is built for outdoor activities, where woodwork-
a secondary weapon or tool for professional military ing, hunting and fishing are the norm. Based on a classic design by
or law enforcement officials. For emergencies, or as a Scandinavian knifemaker Pekka Tuominen, the Puukkos blade has a
backup plan, the CSAR-T Liaison is great, because its single, curving cutting edge and a flat-level spine with a rounded wood
discreet and lightweight. Carry it around your neck, handle. The iconic pattern makes this knife a must-have this season,
in a boot or on a vest. Its skeletal design makes this and its leather sheath with traditional free-floating belt attachment
knife only 1.7 ounces, so itll never weigh you down. makes it all the more enticing. Make the Puukko part of your collection,
and embrace its rich tradition, while utilizing its everyday function.
CSAR-T Specs:
Blade length: 3 inches Puukko Specs:
Blade steel: 420HC Blade length: 3.31 inches
Overall length: 6 3/4 inches Blade steel: CPM S30V
Grip: 420HC stainless steel Overall length: 7.87 inches
Weight: 2.3 ounces (with sheath) Grip: Arizona ironwood
Weight: 3.8 ounces
Functionality At Its Finest

Many Purposes For One Low Price
gonomic, dual-density handle, non-slip
Victorinox grip, one-handed opening, secure lock-
www.swissarmy.com ing mechanisms and tools. This one
Model: Hunter XT item features many capabilities: one-
MSRP: $60 hand gut hook, bone saw, Phillips
The Hunter XT is part of Victorinoxs hunting screwdriver, reamer and key ringall in
knife line and features multi-purpose functionality. one. What are you waiting for? Happy
With this knife, you can take advantage of its er- hunting.
KI

KI-1211-TIPS.qxp 9/25/12 4:12 AM Page 13
Quick Tips For Knife Owners

By J. Bruce Voyles
STORAGE BASICS 101 MARK THE

SHEATH
Following these tips will help keep your knives in top condition Be sure to stick,
tag or mark the
A
s an auctioneer, I pick up knives sheath so you know
from collections in a variety of which knife goes
conditions, ranging from knives back in that sheath.
piled into a box to individually separate Do not think for a
slots within polished wood trays. I have moment that you
seen enough over the years that I do can match them up
by look and feel!
have some insight about storing your
knives. Here are seven tips that will
make your knife storage better. Knife storage can mean
anything from an elaborate
1. FIRST, KNOW WHAT YOU HAVE hand-finished cocobolo
Make a written inventory. A spreadsheet case to a cigar box. Either
works well, and is ideal for noting the way, the knives should be
properly prepared before
markings, price paid, condition, and all of
being stored.
the little things you might need to turn in
to your insurance company if the knives are
ever stolen.
out. Also, do not store carbon
2. KEEP YOUR KNIVES IN THE SAME steel fixed blades in their
SHAPE AS WHEN YOU STORED THEM sheaths.
Clean your knives by wiping them down
with thin machine oil, and handle them 6. NO RUBBER BANDS OR
from that point on with cloth gloves. The TAPE
acids in your fingers will eventually rust If you store knives
many knives if left alone. wrapped in acid-free paper,
or even a paper towel, do
3. STICKER THE BACK, NOT THE bolster. And the plus side is that if you de- not tape the final flap or put a rubber band
FRONT cide to photograph your knife for your around it. The rubber band will in time be-
Inventory numbers on knives are diffi- records, you have a suitable photograph that come brittle and break, and the tape will
cult. You cant write on them, nor can you can be used in an online forum or auction. be a bear to remove. Theres no need for
encase them in plastic like coins or sports either if the knives are packed together.
cards. So to affix a reference number, your 4. OIL THE BLADE
remedies are limited to stickers, for the Grease so thick that one cannot hold a 7. CONSTANT TEMPERATURE
most part. Avery labels seem to be the most knife without taking a grease bath may be Constant temperatures are important. Tak-
common in the big box stores. an efficient rust preventative, but so are ing knives from cold to hot, from dry to hu-
Be sure to put the sticker on the back. top-end products like Renaissance wax that mid, can cause condensation to form. Mois-
That way you can display your knife without make much less mess. Beware of using ture is not good for knives, but bear in mind
a glaring white paper stuck to a blade or rust-busting spray products, as they are that extreme dry is not good for handles such
corrosive by nature and will not help keep as ivory, either. Maintain a happy medium.
your knives in mint condition. These tips will not solve all of your stor-
SEPARATE YOUR age problems, but theyre a start! KI
INVENTORY
If you store your knives in a safe, be 5. STORE WITH SOME SEMBLANCE OF
certain to not put your inventory list in- ORDER
side the safe, as well. More than one Group your knives in a manner that HAVE A TIP OR
collector has been burglarized and makes senseall of the Case knives togeth- A QUESTION?
found that the thieves took the safe Share your tip or let us know your ques-
and all, and their inventory list was er, or all the whittlers in a single roll or
tions for future columns. E-mail us at
stolen along with their knives. spot. Youll save time if you have to dig one
bvoyles@beckett.com.

KI-1211-COVERSTORY2.qxp 9/25/12 4:17 AM Page 14
The combination of
contoured handle,
index finger notch and
checkered grip pattern
makes the Shenanigan
models very friendly
to the hands.
This straight-edge Shenanigan folder

is the aluminum-frame model.

Another variation of the

Shenanigan design by Ken
Onion is this model with a
partially serrated blade.
Up To Shenanigans
The 480 is a more economical version of the Shenanigan,
with FRN (fiberglass reinforced nylon) handles.
Ken Onions new flipper folders for Columbia River Knife

and Tool are lightweight and quick.
By KI Staff
PHOTOS BY COLUMBIA RIVER KNIFE & TOOL AND TERRILL HOFFMAN
[ ]
he Shenanigan design began when a slight recurve and a swedged top edge.
T Columbia River Knife & Tool asked

Ken Onion for his ideas on a no-non-
sense line of sport and work folders. CRKT
Straight or serrated edges are available.
SHENANIGAN ALUMINUM
was looking for utility and quality in a The sport model features an AUS 8 stain-
rugged locking-liner folder. Onion came less steel blade and a cold-forged 6061-T6
back with the aluminum-framed Shenani- aluminum frame with a bead-blast finish.
gan. In addition; he added a work knife The frame is clear anodized for durability.
version featuring organic glass-filled nylon The stainless steel liner lock is a strip lock,
that came to be the Shenanigan Z, and a inset into one frame to save weight. Soft
tactical version with a T designation. textured injection-molded scales are inset
Best known for his assisted opening fold- into the frame. This makes for a frame thats
ers, this non-assisted opening folder com- strong, lightweight and comfortable. The
bines an open-build frame, blade flipper, sport model blades received a black titani-
lubrous washers and bronze bushings at the um nitrite coating for corrosion resistance.
pivot to allow for fast one-hand opening.
All Shenanigan models feature 3 1/4-inch SHENANIGAN Z
blades. Theres a modified drop point with The work model of the Shenanigan offers

Specs
Onion Shenanigan
K470KKP: Razor-sharp cutting edge
K470KKS: Combined razor-sharp and
triple-point serrated cutting edge
Overall: 8.25 inches (210 mm)
Closed: 4.875 inches (124 mm)
Blade: 3.25 inches (83 mm)
Thickness: 0.119 inches (3 mm)
Steel: AUS 8, 58-59 HRC
Weight: 4.1 ounces (116 g)
MSRP: $115 US
Onion Shenanigan Z
K480KKP: Razor-sharp cutting edge The T stands for tac-
K480KKS: Combined razor-sharp and tical, and with one look
triple-point serrated cutting edge at the modified tanto
Overall: 8.25 inches (210 mm) tip and black titanium
Closed: 4.875 inches (124 mm) nitrite coating its pretty
Blade: 3.25 inches (83 mm) clear why.
Steel: AUS 8, 58-59 HRC
MSRP: $59.99 US
Shenanigan T
K490KKS tanto: Razor-sharp cutting
edge & triple-point serrated cutting
edge, black titanium nitrite finish, cold- Shenanigan gives
forged aluminum handle with inserts
Overall: 8.25 inches (210 mm) you utility and
Closed: 4.875 inches (124 mm)
Blade: 3.25 inches (83 mm) quality in a rugged
Steel: AUS 8
locking-liner
MSRP: $115 US
folder.
Shenanigan
K495KKS tanto: Razor-sharp cutting AUS 8 blade steel in a bead-blast finish, to the rigors of duty whether its on the
edge & triple-point serrated cutting
plus a frame of glass-filled nylon. This is a streets or in the field. The tanto blade
edge, black
titanium nitrite finish, Injection-molded rugged, value-priced knife. The combina- shape is pointed for piercing while having
glass-filled nylon handle tion of contoured handle, index finger a high hollow grind, which is ideal for a ra-
Overall Length: 8.25 inches (210 mm) notch and checkered grip pattern make the zor-thin cutting edge. Blade actuation is
Closed: 4.875 inches (124 mm) Shenanigan models very friendly to the quick with the use of the blade flipper. All
Blade: 3.25 inches (83 mm)
Thickness: 0.119inches (3 mm) hands. Both models come with a thought- blades are black titanium nitrite coated for
Steel: AUS 8, 58-59 HRC fully designed custom stainless steel pock- non-glare, corrosion resistance.
Weight: 3.8 ounces (108 g) et/gear clip with a black corrosion-resistant The Shenanigan T handle shape pro-
MSRP: $69.99 US coating. vides a confident grip through a profiled
Ken Onion isnt playing any tricks here. palm swell, overall balance and a swept
CRKT is pulling the Shenanigans. The finger groove. Available in either forged
CONTACT: Shenanigan aluminum models have a sug- aluminum or molded glass-filled nylon, the
Columbia River Knife & Tool gested retail price of $115 MSRP, while the handle also features a soft molded grip in-
18348 SW 126th Place Z work models are only $59.99 MSRP. sert, which is texture checkered.
Tulatin, OR 97062
503-685-5015 Overall, the Shenanigan variety of folders
info@crkt.com SHENANIGAN T is offered in the full range, from economical
www.crkt.com The Tactial version of the CRKT Shenani- to tough tactical. Get one in your hands and
gan folder is designed and built to hold up test the feel for yourself.

Ken Onion, designer of

the Columbia River
Knife & Tool Shenani-
gan folder.
Top Knife Designer

Ken Onion By KI Staff
Ken Onion is a Hawaii-based custom knifemaker
whos likely better known as the designer and inventor
of the assisted-opening knife. He has designed knives
Kershaw
for several knife companies, and for several years was
was soon
the primary knife designer for Kershaw Knives. He de- dominating
signed some of Kershaws best-selling knives before the assisted-
moving on to expand his career. opening
market,
INVENTOR FIRST thanks to
Onions design career began while still serving as a
US Marine, where he devised a helicopter mechanism
Onions
that was adopted for military use. Onions wife, Noel, in-
design. ONE KERSHAW AT A TIME
troduced him to long-time knifemaker and Knifemakers
Guild member Stan Fujisaka, who guided Onion into making his first knife in 1991. CRYO 1555TI
Five years later, Doug Flagg, working for Kershaw at the time, met Onion, and the 'HVLJQHGE\5LFN+LQGHUHU
6SHHG6DIHDVVLVWHGRSHQLQJ
subject turned to knives, specifically a new assisted-opening design that Onion had )UDPHORFN
come up with. Kershaw was soon dominating the assisted-opening market, thanks to &U0R9VWHHOWLWDQLXPFDUERQLWULGHFRDWLQJ
LQEODGHOHQJWK
Onions design.
Today, Onion holds 36 design patents, including his Speed-safe mechanism, but
also encompassing locks and other designs. He has designed the Spyker knife for
Spyderco, and was inducted into the Cutlery Hall of Fame in 2008. His handmade
knives rest in the collections of such celebrities as Nicholas Cage, Kid Rock, Pam An-
derson, Wayne Newton, Steven Tyler, Steven Segal and Ziggy Marley. KI ,&34)"8,/*7&4$0.t'"$&#00,$0.,&34)"8,/*7&4

KI-1211-SHORT.qxp 9/25/12 4:20 AM Page 18
Its easy to determine

the common tread in
this group. The quillon
dagger and all Damas-
cus blades is the first
tip-off. Someone pro-
duced this selection in
anticipation of submis-
sion to the ABS judges
panel to obtain a Master
Smith mark. In this case,
the knives are by Warren
Daniel, and he achieved
that success. You will
find the story of Warren
and this years other
ABS Master Smiths
elsewhere in this issue.
KI-1211-SHORT 10/1/12 2:43 PM Page 19
KNIFE GROUPS IN
4,000 WORDS
OR LESS
If a picture is worth 1,000 words, here are
4,000 words worth of knife photos.
By J. Bruce Voyles
PHOTOS BY ERIC EGGLY/POINT SEVEN STUDIOS
J.D. Davis of Fruitland Park, Florida, pro- For Lucas Burnley, the common thread on Greg Dashs knife group has a variety of
duced this group of five knives, two of these three knives is D2 steel, kydex handle materials, running from stag to
which will have been displayed at the sheaths and well-done cord over ray skin wood, and different types of blade shapes
Knifemakers Guild show in Louisville, handles. and steels, but its still a nice group of
Kentucky, by the time you read this. small hunters. Rather than picking out the
one you like best, youd be tempted to
buy them all, and then youd own this nice
entire thread together, some cohesion of a group!
K
nives are loners. Most often they
are purchased as single solitary common theme, or a common maker. When
items, one at a time, each knife you first see the group you may not under-
calling out to the buyer, Take me home stand why the knives are together, but nodding your head and saying, I get it
with you. In groups, the knife chorus is then as it is explained you find yourself now.
often out of tune and distracting.
FOUR GROUPS HERE
UNCOMMON GROUPS Shown here are four such groups, some
Knives are harder to shoot in groups. In- In groups, the grouped together for obvious reasons, oth-
stead of one group of edges and surfaces
catching and reflecting light, the difficulty
knife chorus ers not so. Just for fun, try not reading the
caption until you look at the shots for a
of good knife photography is multiplied by is often out minute and see if you can determine why
as many knives as are shown in the shot.
When you see knives shot in a group
of tune and the knives are in such a group. See if you
can determine the common thread that
there is usually something that holds the distracting. holds them together. KI

KI-1211-WEISS.qxp 9/25/12 4:30 AM Page 20
WHAT MAKES A GOOD

TACTICAL KNIFE? Text and Photos by Jim Weiss and Mickey Davis
WHAT MAKES A GOOD TACTICAL THERE ALWAYS HAVE BEEN TACTICALS fare was the Saxons. It is believed that the
KNIFE? Pointed sticks, wedged-shaped rocks Saxons were named after their knives, the
We asked four knife designers/makers to and chipped shards of obsidian once seax. Other tactical knives have included
discuss tactical knives, particularly what played the role of tactical knives. In time, the Gurkha Kukri, the Scottish dirk, the Ma-
makes a good tactical knife. Our list includ- the Roman legion infantry carried a dagger, rine Corps Ka-bar, the US World War I
ed custom knifemaker Paul Granger, Mykel the pugio which, similar to the soldiers fa- trench knife, and the Fairbairn-Sykes
Hawke (Hawkes Hellion Survivor), Allen El- mous short sword the gladius, was bor- Fighting Knife.
ishewitz (Hogue/Elishewitz fixed blade EX- rowed from Spanish-designed products.
F01 and Elishewitz F.T.W.S.) and tactical One of the Germanic tribes whose war- WHAT IS TACTICAL?
trainer Mark Prince. riors engaged the Romans legions in war- Custom knifemaker Paul Granger gave

The Gerber
Applegate-Fair-
bairn green-han-
dle combat
folder is a tacti-
cal knife with a
double-lock sys-
tem that made it
through our
harsh field evalu-
ation. The blade
did not close
during strikes
against wood.
Double-lock
folders are gain-
ing popularity.
This is a German-made, top-quality

reproduction of the Fairbairn-Sykes
fighting knife. The designers were
British constables Fairbairn and Sykes
of WWII fame. While the aggressive
Fairbairn was most interested in
knives, Sykes, who looked more like a
clergyman, was more of a firearms
man. Both excelled in all phases of
close quarters combat. They are best
known for their development of the
Fairbairn-Sykes (F-S) fighting knife, a
long, thin-bladed dagger with what has
been described as a coke bottle hilt. John Ek founded Ek Commando Knife Co., also called Ek Knives, in 1941. This knife is
engraved Korea, WWII, Vietnam and 1941. Ek Knives have served in several wars and
have been around for a long time.
the question some thought, and then laid

out his beliefs. Heres what he said.
GRANGER ON TACTICAL
First let's consider the term tactical. "Tac-
tical" is a military term that refers to the
maneuvering of troops, equipment and sup-
plies in the presence of the enemy, as op-
posed to "strategic" maneuvers which re-
quire long-term planning and take place
beyond the range of rifle and artillery. In
this sense, "tactical" knives are so named
because they are used on the fly, without
advanced notice or planning. Knives are
not strategic weapons.
DESIGN ELEMENTS Columbia River Knife & Tool (CRKT) feels its Elishewitz F.T.W.S. (For Those Who Serve)
Next let's consider design. In short, you knife is a strong, balanced knife with a secure grip, one of the companys finest tactical
fixed-blade knives. It was designed by Allen Elishewitz, an experienced custom knife-
need a handle, an edge, and a point. Re- maker and designer.

Matt Larsen, William W. Harsey and Chris

Reeve developed the Larsen Harsey
Reeve (LHR) fixed-blade Knife. These As part of Hogues collaboration with
three men are experts in knife design and world-renowned custom knife maker Allen
use. Their groundbreaking sheath has Elishewitz, Hogue, Inc. has combined art,
built-in thumb retention. design and manufacturing expertise to
deliver a fresh, new and innovative
approach to sporting cutlery. The Hogue
Elishewitz EX-F01 is part of this collabora-
tion.
The Blackhawk UK-SFK (United Kingdom

Special Forces Knife) was designed
specifically for Britains elite special
forces. Using their stringent specifications
as a guide, Blackhawks design team drew
The Gerber Mark II is an anti-personnel
from the groundbreaking works of Col.
dagger with a serrated, killing blade. The
Rex Applegate, W.E. Fairbairn and Brent
Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knife and the
Beshara to create the ultimate combat
Roman Mainz gladius influenced its
dagger.
design. Gerber's Mark II was produced The KA-BAR is the real deal. This KA-
from 1967 to 2000, with a limited reissue BAR fighter, a slightly larger version of the
of 1,500 units in 2002. Full production famous US Marine Corp fighting knife of
began again in mid-2008. US Army Capt. World War II, is a relatively new model.
Bud Holzman designed the knife. While The blade is a bit longer and wider, and
working for Gerber, Al Mar added the twin has a Randall Model 1 grind. Its adver-
serrations to the knife. tised as a fighting/utility knife.
This is a Gurkha khukri (also spelled

khukuri) presentation knife obtained by an
American diplomat to India in the 1950s.
The blade is not etched; the design is
The Glock M81 serrated-blade survival merely a reflection.
field knife, as well as the non-serrated This LanCay M9 bayonet was also used as
M78 combat field knife, comes with a a field knife from the Vietnam War until
sheath made of Glock polymer. The two recent times.
knives are basically identical, except the
M81 has a serrated or saw-bladed edge
on the back (top) of the blade called a
root cutter, thats apparently not should have no sharp edges, yet not be too
designed for jobs such as cutting seat slick.
belts. Both versions are available in the An edge should last, but also be easy to
buyers choice of olive drab, sand tan or
restore in the field. A Rockwell hardness of
black, and all come with a standard
matching sheath. 57-59 is a good range. Some makers put
Hawkes Hellion is not a sword but a large out a knife with an HRC of 61-62. That's
and heavy tactical tool knife. It measures okay if youre at the hunting lodge at the
garding the handle, ergonomics are very in at 14 1/2 inches, including its very end of each day and can use a diamond
tough micarta handle. The handle also has
important to knife design. A knife should a divot to be used as a socket for the bow
sharpener. However, in the real world, you
feel comfortable in your hand, even in mo- drill method of fire starting. The knifes may have to rely on a file, a rock or the
ments of great physical and mental stress. metal is high-carbon spring steel 5160, edge of a car window to sharpen that edge.
It should fill, but not overfill, your hand. It with a given RC of 56-58. It was designed
by Mykel Hawke.

KI_1211_23 9/25/12 4:32 AM Page 23
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inches, with a thickness between 1/8- and

3/16-inch.
Virtually all folder locking mechanisms
have failed and will fail, although it hap-
pens very infrequently, to be sure. An ex-
ception I can think of is the Extrema Ratio
RAO and other knives in the Extrema Ratio
family. Other companies have developed
secondary locking mechanisms. CRKT's Au-
toLAWKS is an excellent example.
Materials used in the knife are important
factors. Knife steel should be very high per-
formance, such as 52100 carbon steel thats
selectively heat-treated, or 154CM (very
This automatic, heavy-duty black knife was made by custom knifemaker Charles Ochs good edge retention and toughness), S30V
of Florida. (superior edge retention and very good
toughness) or S35VN (very good edge re-
tention and toughness) stainless.
G10 PREFERRED
A tactical knife should have a handle
made of metal, Micarta, or G-10. Metal is
permanent but slightly heavier, and slick
and cold when you first pick it up. Micarta
On August 2, 2006, the first American and G-10 can be textured for a non-slip
The Pacific, manufactured by Chris Reeve Navy SEAL was killed in action in Iraq. His grip and are very long lasting. The rubber-
Knives (CRK), is a fixed-blade tactical name was Marc Lee, a name that means like material Kraton is not a good choice for
knife that went into production in 2007 Mighty Warrior. He lived up to his name
and is still being made. Its the civilian ver- that day by standing out in the direct line
tactical knives. It will eventually fail due to
sion of the 1st Group Knife, which was of fire three different times to defend his abrasion, solvents or pure mechanical fail-
designed by award-winning knifemaker fellow SEALS. This knife honoring Marc ure. Plus, rubber-like handles do not slide
William (Bill) Harsey, Jr. Lee is made by Benchmade Knife Com- in and out of Kydex very well at all.
pany, Inc.
Service is a long-term consideration.
Tactical folders by nature should be simple
in design for ease of disassembly and
cleaning in the field. They should be as-
sembled with fasteners that utilize easily
available tools (slotted screwdriver; dime
or a self-supplied, self-contained tool),
The Randall Model 14 Attack is a tactical and should be designed with a partially
fighting knife designed by Bo Randall for
open back to keep mud, salt water residue
combat and survival purposes. This ver-
sion is slightly different than the standard or pocket lint from collecting and disabling
Extrema Ratio is an Italian knife manufac-
four finger-grooved handle and the stan- turing company producing high-level, the lock or preventing the knife from
dard straight brass double guard. Its mar- affordable performance knives for the opening.
keted by Randall Knives. professional market. They specialize in The knife you choose should be durable.
tactical, rescue and survival knives, and
An easy way to judge durability is to do re-
provide tactical knives to a number of
POINTS AND THICKNESS special/elite Italian military units. Accord- search, consider the maker/manufacturer's
The point should be thick on a hard- ing to Extrema Ratio, the RAO Tactical reputation, and to discuss knives with
working knife. Thick can still be razor Folder is an unusual "in your face" type of friends and co-workers in your field.
sharp and easy to sharpen. I once had a knife. Its a hybrid, both big and tough. These guidelines will help you find a
customer order a chisel-ground tanto made tactical knife that will be your trusted com-
from 3/8-inch thick stock. I sent it out to length should be from 4 to 7 inches. Gener- panion for decades to come.
him shaving sharp. ally, knives longer than 7 inches are made
Fixed blade thickness should be between for very specific tasks such as landmine PRINCE NOT A FOLDER FAN
5/32- and 7/32-inch, and, with rare excep- clearance, or for collectors. Tactical folder According to Mark Allen Prince: I am one
tions, running as thick as 1/4-inch. Blade blade length should run between 3 and 5 of the trainers who nearly lost a finger due

OUR PANEL
PAUL GRANGER A drop point and enough
Custom knifemaker Paul Granger (www.palehorsefighters.blogspot.com) special- belly for skinning makes the
izes in making fixed-blade knives of his own unique design as well as in traditional Nyala useful in a multitude of
patterns. He has created a line of lightweight, non-metallic, non-ceramic knives cur-
applications. The integral handle and
blade is sturdy and practical.
rently in use by the American and Canadian militaries, multiple police departments,
and both the FBI and CIA.
MARK ALLEN PRINCE

Mark Allen Prince is a professor of Law Enforcement Technology/Special Opera-
tions at Central Ohio Technical College, a former USDOE SRT operator, and 18-year
veteran of local law enforcement special operations and training. He develops and
teaches courses in homeland security and special operations for military, state and
local special operations personnel and organizations. Hes an instructor/trainer certi-
fied by the late Colonel Rex Applegate.
ALLEN ELISHEWITZ
Allen Elishewitz is the designer of the Elishewitz F.T.W.S, and many other knife de-
signs. While in the military, he made dozens different knives in various shapes, sizes
and styles that he would test in the field. He has been self-employed strictly in the
knifemaking business for more than 20 years. During this time he has made a lot of
different fighting knives, from fixed blades to folders, testing them to see which
would perform best, and developing a foundation and understanding of what a true
military/defense knife should be.
MYKEL HAWKE
Mykel Hawke (www.mykelhawke.com) is both a warrior and scholar. He has more
than 20 years of combined military, civilian and government experience, serving as a
senior enlisted soldier of the U.S. Army Special Forces, and as a commissioned officer
and team commander. He has also been a U.S. government contractor and Country
Project Manager in the worlds hot spots.
As a scholar, he has taken courses in a number of languages and has earned a
Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and a Master of Science degree in Psychology,
graduating Magna Cum Laude. And as for martial arts, Hawke is an Aikido Black Belt
and an instructor in other martial arts. He has a black belt in judo, as well.
to a "tactical folder" closing on me. Never preferably sharp on both sides, has a thick
again! Folders are for cutting. I do not be- spine to the tip, and has a sharp point. The
lieve that a folder should be carried for de- definition of "tactical" is interesting, funny
fense, much as I do not believe a .22, .32 and misused in our industry, much like "as-
or.380 caliber handgun should be carried sault" in firearms.
for defense. However, the folder or the little
handgun beats nothing in a fight for your
life! I was taught to always carry a pock- BROAD QUESTION, MULTIPLE AP-
etknife. PROACHES
In my research, training and opinion, Successful knife designers usually come
knives designed and used for anti-person- from one of three backgrounds: custom knife-
nel purposes make the best tactical knives. making, martial arts or the military. Allen El-
These should have a full handle that is ag- ishewitz comes from all three. According to
gressive in texture with a decent swell. The Elishewitz, what makes a tactical knife is a
blade should be no less than 5 inches, can very broad question, which could fill up mul-
be sharpened reasonably in the field, is tiple articles. Here are his thoughts:

The war against terrorism took US armed forces to Afghanistan in 2001 where they
hunted and chased Taliban and al-Qaeda forces. In 2002, Special Ops and an elite unit
of Navy SEALS were also sent to Afghanistan. On March 4, 2002, Petty Officer First The addition of respected survival author-
Class Neil Roberts, 32, was the first Navy SEAL to die in that country. This knife, manu- ity Ron Hood to their Pro Staff made it
factured by Chris Reeve Knives (CRK), honors Neil Roberts. possible for Buck Knives to add the Model
060 Buck/Hood Hoodlum to their growing
According to cus-
role in the survival field. It's the ultimate
tom knifemaker
fixed-blade survival knife, one that can do
Dan Winkler, he
anything needed, no matter how large or
developed the Win-
small the task.
kler Knives II field
knife for those
wanting a some-
what longer knife. blade should be coated or have some type
It was originally a of anti-reflective finish. Coating is the best
forged knife choice because it not only prevents the
design, and then a
prototype for con-
blade from reflecting light, but it also pro-
sideration as a new tects the metal from corrosion.
knife issued to a I would stay away from a double-edged
SEAL team that blade because that limits its use as a tool,
specializes in
making it task specific. The best blade
counter-terrorist
activities. shapes in my opinion would be a clip point
or a drop point; they are the most well-
rounded design. The dagger, tanto, etc.
limit the variety of field tasks that they can
be used for. I would also stay away from
Lets talk about the knife in the sense of from a sniper or infantryman. radical blade shapes because sharpening
military use, and not as a self-defense edge and maintaining them is more difficult in
weapon. In the military field there is no COATING IS IMPORTANT the field. I view them as gimmicky designs
one knife that will fit all applications. A Now lets talk about this type of knife in to sell products. The watchword should be
tanker will use an edged tool differently even more general sense. I believe the KISS.
I feel that a guard is a must. If you dont
have one, at least have a deep finger
groove.
TACTICAL KNIFE CONSIDERATIONS Stick tang or full tang? It doesnt matter.
The advantage of a stick tang is that the
Purpose Blade material
knife is generally lighter. Weight would be
Handle Blade coating
a concern for those who are humping their
Edge and blade hardness Sheath
gear.
Thickness Weight
As for the handle, it should definitely be
Folder vs. fixed blade Length
made of a synthetic material. G-10 is prob-

KI-1211-WEISS 9/28/12 4:13 PM Page 27
ably the best material on the market today.

The surface of the handle should be tex-
tured to give the user additional control of
the knife.
SHEATH IS IMPORTANT
The sheath is probably the most impor-
tant consideration for a tactical knife. I
would stay away from Kydex because it
makes too much noise; it is also unforgiving
when mounted on your harness. Those
who actually use their knife and carry it in
the field for long durations will understand
what I am talking about. The best material
for the sheath is high grade nylon with a
hard plastic insert. Leather is actually a
very nice material to use, but depending on
the environment, it could rot and stretch.
WHAT IS THE TACTICAL FOR?

Mykel Hawke says that the tactical knife
question is a bit open. Here is his response:
When you say tactical, we first have to
ask, is it for SWAT or Special Operations
Forces? They have two very different needs.
SWAT uses its knives specifically for cutting
things; the other Special Operations Forces
use them specifically for cutting people.
Since I am Special Operations Forces, I
will answer on the premise of that latter
need. I designed a knife specifically for
penetrating and finishing. In this, all things
matter:
Weight of the tool so as to be easily

wielded
Length of the blade to increase reach,
but decrease exposure
Strength of the tool to ensure function
and not failure
Thickness of the handle for a powerful
grip
Curves of the handle for masterful con-
trol
Tip of the blade for penetration
Curves on the blade for maximum tis-
sue damage with minimum energy re-
quired, ensuring increased efficiency
and survivability
Look of the blade to instill confidence
in the user and fear in the opponent
What are the characteristics of a tactical

knife? Answer: everything that serves its
purpose. KI

KI-1211-MASTERS.qxp 9/25/12 5:40 AM Page 28
DOUBLE UP!
ONLY TWO MAKERS
BECOME MASTERSMITHS
This is Daniel Warrens European quillon dagger that

earned him the B.R. Hughes award. It was chosen by
the review judges as the best knife submitted by an
applicant for the mastersmith rating. (Photo by Eric
Eggley, Point Seven Studios)

The 2012 Mastersmiths class is

Gary House and Daniel Warren
By B.R. Hughes
PHOTOS BY ERIC EGGLEY/POINT SEVEN STUDIOS AND BURT FOSTER
{ } T
oday, there are ABS mastersmiths from every conti-
nent except Antarctica, and there are approximately
120 active masters in the world.
Attaining the mastersmith rank is a notable achievement by

any standard you might care to use. It requires two years as a
Journeyman smith, and the review of five handforged knives,
with one of them being a Damascus dagger, by a tough review
board of seven members. Four must pass the knives for the mak-
er to achieve Mastersmith rating.
Here are brief profiles of the only two men who added their
names to the roster of ABS masters in 2012.

I continued making
knives, always
striving to make the
next one better
Gary House
These are the five knives that Gary House

placed before the critical eyes of a seven-
judge review panel at the Blade Show in
Atlanta in his successful quest for an MS.
(Photo by Eric Eggley, Point Seven Studios)

GARY HOUSE
HOW TO CONTACT HIM: ADDRESS: 2851 Pierce Road, Ephrata, WA 98823 PHONE: 509-754-3272 EMAIL: spindry101@aol.com
In the 1980s, Gary House began to col- Gary House, who was
a banker during one
lect knives featuring forged blades. The phase of his career, is
more he collected, the deeper his interest shown here working
grew, and so he attended Rick Dunker- in his smithy in
leys first hammer-in held in Lincoln, Ephrata, Washington,
where he was born in
Montana. (Rick, an ABS mastersmith, also
1947.
served with distinction on the societys
board of directors from 2002 until 2011.)
Instructors at that event included Mas-
tersmiths Don Fogg and Rob Hudson. By
the mid-1990s, Gary was working with
John Davis and Ed Schempp in the field of
Damascus steel, with stress on the mosaic
variety. In 1999, House moved into his first
smithy.
I really got serious about knifemaking
in 2002, when I earned my ABS journey-
man smith rating, House remembers. I
continued making knives, always striving
to make the next one better, until I
reached my ultimate goal of attaining my
master stamp.
Gary House was born in Ephrata,
Washington, in 1947 and still resides
there. After graduating from high school,
Gary attended a junior college and then
worked in various fields, including ware-
housing, farming, welding and commer-
cial beekeeping. He married his wife,
Mary Jo, in 1969, and they have two
daughters and one son.
He added, So many have helped me
along the way. I attended about 10 ABS
hammer-ins, and I have spent a lot of
time with Mastersmiths Bill Burke, Wade
Colter and Shane Taylor. They have been
inspirations to me.
At the 2011 California Hammer-In,
hosted by Visalia College and directed by
MS Mike Vagnino, Gary helped Burke
during his demonstration on Japanese
steel.
House likes to make, as he puts it,
anything sharp and pointy.
He also enjoys making mosaic Damas-
cus very much. He blends 1080 and
15n20 for his Damascus, and his favorite
Shown here is Houses European quillon dagger, which is a requirement for those seek-
handle material is any type of ivory. ing the ABS master bladesmith rating the highest the ABS provides. (Photo by Eric
Eggley, Point Seven Studios)

The B.R. Hughes

Award was presented
to Warrens European
art dagger.
This Warren hunter

features a curly maple
handle and one of
Warrens Damascus
blades, for which he
uses a blend of 1084
and 15n20 steels.
(Photo by Eric Eggley,
Point Seven Studios)
Warren maintains that it was Dr. Jim Bat-

son, past and present chairman of the
American Bladesmith society, who first
introduced him to the forged blade.
(Photo by Burt Foster)
DANIEL WARREN
HOW TO REACH HIM: The best way to reach Warren is via a letter mailed to him at 571 Love Joy Road, Canton, NC 28716
Warren likes to
I think some things are just supposed make small,
to be, such as my knifemaking and my practical
passion for hunting whitetails with a hunters, such as
the two pictured
bow, Daniel Warren says.
here. He is a
He made his first knife in 1976. dedicated
It was crude, and I had no idea at whitetail hunter,
the time that I would spend the rest of and using his
my life trying to make a better one. For trusty bow, he
has collected
20 years, I used the stock removal several trophy
method, and the members of the South bucks. (Photo
Carolina Knifemakers Guild were most by Burt Foster)
helpful. Claude Montjoy was a dear
friend and a great knifemaker. Richard
Birdwell is the same. He never tired of Warren likes to make slip-joint folders, well takes up October, November and De-
answering my questions. practical hunters and an occasional Bowie. cember.
Warren was born in North Carolina His knife prices range from $300 to $1,800. The B.R. Hughes Award is presented in
and was raised on a small farm in the His favorite carbon steels are 1084 and Atlanta to the maker of the best knife pre-
Smoky Mountains. There were 11 chil- 52100, and he uses 1084 and 15n20 for his sented for the MS review. This year, the
dren (Daniel was number eight) in the Damascus. As Daniel explains it, he is not a seven judges selected Warrens European
family! His father expected everyone to full-time maker, because deer season pretty art dagger for this distinction.
work, but along the way, young Warren
picked up a strong affection for hunting
and fishing, and as he puts it, That
never went away. He finished high
school in 1973 and then served a hitch
in the U.S. Marine Corps. In 1975, he ... it is one of the better
designs I have handled
married his high school sweetheart,
Mitzi Long. They have two daughters 52&. in some time.
Jeff Hamilton
and one son.
Warren says, While attending a knife &5((. woodsmonkey.com
show in 1998, I first met Dr. Jim Batson.

I never gave it much thought, but that
.1,9(6
was probably my introduction to blade-
smithing. Over the years, Jim has been
an inspiration!
Around 2003, I met a neighbor
named Bill Wiggins, who was an ap-
prentice smith in the ABS. Bill coached
me through forging my first blade. My
.XGX
first knife with a forged blade was prob- 1HVVPXN
ably the second-worst knife I ever +XQWHU
KH2514
made. In 2007, I completed the Intro-
duction to Bladesmithing course at the - Forged Blade
Moran School in Old Washington,
- Stacked Leather Handle
- Hand Stitched Sheath
Arkansas. James Ray Cook and Jerry
Fisk were my instructors. All the while,
Bill Wiggins never let up. I wouldnt be
where I am today if it were not for Bill.
ZZZFDVKDQZHLFRP_
Slip-joint Heres
folders are another dag-
also Warrens ger by
favorites. The House. This
specimen one features
shown here a concave
is one of his ivory handle
most favored with a one-
designs. He piece blade,
prefers 1084 guard and
or 52100 for tang, forged
his carbon- from 1080
steel blades. and 15n20.
(Photo by (Photo by
Burt Foster) Eric Eggley,
Point Seven
Studios)
THE ROAD TO MASTERSMITH

ttaining the mastersmith rank is a notable achievement by any a vise and bent 90 degrees. The blade must not break, although
A standard you might care to use. Heres how it works.
After becoming a member of the ABS, a smith must wait a mini-
the cutting edge is permitted to crack for no more than one-third
the width of the blade.
mum of two years before testing for the JS stamp. If this hurdle is successfully cleared, the applicant may then
This exam is actually in two parts. First, the smith must complete bring five knives to place before a review panel of seven judges
the cutting and bending phase in the shop of a master bladesmith. who are either ABS mastersmiths or board members in either At-
Initially, the applicant must chop through a minimum of two pine lanta or San Antonio. None of these knives may feature Damascus
2x4s without incurring any type of damage to the blade, which steel or be a folder. At the review site, the knife quintet is placed
must be 10 inches long and forged from carbon steel. Next, the on a table in the test room, and if four of the seven judges give
smith must cleave a free-hanging, 1-inch rope with one swipe of their approval, the smith receives his/her JS certificate.
the knife, after which the blade must cleanly shave hair from Following this, the smith must wait a minimum of two years before
his/her arm. Then, the first 3 inches of the test blade are placed in trying for an MS. Once more, the first phase of the test consists of a
cutting and bending trial at a masters shop. Again, the test blade
must be 10 inches long, but this time, it must be Damascus steel con-
STEPS TO THE TOP taining at least 300 layers of metal. The trials are the same as at the
SPOT IN THE ABS JS level and, as before, if successful, the five review knives are taken
to the Blade Show or the Expo. One of these may be a folder, but this
is optional. However one [must] be a European quillon dagger with a
STEP 1: JOURNEYMAN Damascus blade at least 10 inches long. As at the JS level, passing
ABS Member for two years and complete journeyman test requires yes votes from at least four of the seven judges. KI
Chop through two 2x4s
Cleanly cut a 1-inch manila rope
Knife still must shave hair
Bend to 90 degrees and straighten back up without TWO OPPORTUNITIES
breaking FOR TESTING
Make five carbon-steel knives that pass review by at
least four of a seven-person board of mastersmiths. Beginning in 2012, the American Bladesmith Society al-
lowed bladesmiths who wanted to try for either the Jour-
STEP 2: MASTERSMITH neyman Smith stamp or the Master Bladesmith rating to
Be a journeyman for two years test either in January at the All-Forged Blade Expo in San
Make a Damascus knife that will cut all journeyman tests, Antonio or in June at the Blade Show in Atlanta. Eight
300-layer minimum smiths earned their JS stamps in January in San Antonio,
Submit five knives to a seven-person review panel. One but no one tested for his/her MS. Hence, those who passed
knife must be a European quillon dagger with a Damascus the examination at the Blade Show comprise the Master
blade at least 10 inches long Bladesmith class of 2012.

KI_1211_35 9/26/12 1:37 AM Page 35
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KI-1211-RINALDI.qxp 9/25/12 6:28 AM Page 36
The TUK and MINI-TUK set consists

of a TUK (4-inch flat-ground, utility-
style blade; integral single guard and
finger grooves; F-22 carbon-fiber
scales; S30V steel; bead-blast finish;
thong hole; and a serrated thumb
ramp. It is paired with a MINI-TUK
(2-inch flat-ground, utility-style
blade; integral single guard and finger
groove; F-22 carbon-fiber scales;
S30V steel; bead-blast finish; thong
hole; and a serrated thumb ramp.
This set features a Kydex multiposi-
tion sheath with Tek-Lok attachment.
This knives in this set can be sepa-
rated and used separately.

Mean
AND Pretty
The knives of Trace Rinaldi are
useful tools for the real world.
By Les Robertson
PHOTOS BY CHUCK WARD
lder can be fresh, just take a look at
O the knives of Trace Rinaldi. He en-

joys putting his knives into the
hands of those who appreciate a no-frills
design in which form and function complete
the synergy of all the aspects of the knife.
Rinaldis emphasis on his knifemaking is
focused on making useful tools for the real
world. He feels that function is beauty, and
there is no reason to add to a knife just to
make it look mean or pretty. If the design el-
ements do not make the knife better, there
is no reason to do that. He says, Im not a
fan of embellishments on my knives. If it
doesnt have a purpose I dont really care
about it.
OLDER DESIGNS STILL FRESH

This knifemaking concept is why even his
older designs are still fresh today. His newer
designs have built on that foundation. When
I first met Rinaldi in the very late 1990s, he
was referred to as an up and coming mak-
er. His designs were basic, clean and built to
be used. Having made the transition to full-
time maker, his knives are more evolved
and still built to be used.
Rinaldi primarily builds fixed blades, as
The TTKK makes a handy camp knife, with its 5-inch flat-ground,
well as full flat-ground utility knives, fighters, utility-style blade; integral single guard and finger groove; F-22 car-
choppers, neck knives and other knives as bon-fiber scales; S30V steel; bead-blast finish; thong hole; and ser-
the need arises. He prefers CPM S30V, CPM rated thumb ramp. This knife features a multiposition Kydex sheath
with Tek-Lok attachment.

Trace Rinaldi Leo/Mini-TUK set combines a LEO (5-inch flat-ground, bead-blasted blade; S30V steel; coyote brown G-10 handle; and
an overall length of 10 inches) with a Mini-TUK (3-inch flat-ground, bead-blasted blade; S30V steel; coyote brown G-10 handle;
and an overall length of 7 inches).
S35VN and CPM 154. While he has used to create a tacky texture. Rinaldi will use single if the situation requires that.
other steels, he feels that these three cover Micarta and exotic woods on request.
all the bases of brute strength and stainless Rinaldis knives are available as a stand- LEVINE INFLUENCE
properties. alone unit or as sets. Given the options for I originally wanted to build custom
His handle material of choice is G-10 and the sets, he does his own Kydex sheaths. guns, but it wasnt in the cards at the time..
carbon fiber, which he chose for their One of the advantages of the sets is that I met a knife maker named Norm Levine at
toughness. They can also be bead-blasted they can be taken apart and carried as a a gun show and he sparked the interest in

Trace Rinaldi
enjoys putting his
knives into the
hands of those
who appreciate a
no-frills design in
which form and
function complete
the synergy of
all the aspects of
the knife.
making knives. I figured it was also the
next best thing to building custom guns,
Rinaldi says.
UTILITARIAN MODELS
The tactical utility knife (TUK) is Rinaldis
most popular and probably his most utili-
Rinaldis MINI-TUK neck knife boasts a 2-inch flat-ground, utility-style blade; integral tarian knife. Featuring a drop-point hunter-
single guard and finger groove; brown Micarta scales; S30V steel; bead-blasted finish;
thong hole; serrated thumb ramp; and a Kydex sheath made by Rinaldi. style blade, an integral single guard and an
ergonomic handle, this knife is great for
Lean. Mean. Fighting Machine.

From combat to camp - this Bowies up to the task.
SHOP ONLINE AT
www.agrussell.com
A. G. Russell Sandbox Bowie
A beast for the Middle East
For a free catalog, call 479-878-1644, Dept #Y1112

RU-U712BKOD $295.00
To order, call 1-800-255-9034.
2900 S. 26th St. - Rogers, AR 72758
Copyright 2012 A.G. Russell Knives

all-around use. My personal favorite is this The Tactical Utility Kitchen Knife (TTKK) designed to become part of your hand. The
knife as a ride-along with his Armageddon is a favorite among collectors and users. serrated thumb ramp offers the user differ-
model. This set provides you with all the Designed primarily to fill the bill of a camp ent hand placements so that the knife can
options you need for just about any situa- knife, this knife features an oversized drop- do small or large knife chores. Rinaldi and
tion that may arise in the field. point blade. It is combined with a handle co-designer Joe Talmadge created a knife
that is at home in the kitchen as it is in the
field.
KNIFE SPECIFICS
Rinaldis knives range in price from $300
to $900 and up to $1,500 for some sets. His
current delivery time is 10 to 12 months. He
generally plans to attend either the SHOT
Show or Blade Show each year.
Trace Rinaldis approach to knifemak-
ing is what makes his fixed blades some
of my favorites. If you have the opportu-
nity to handle one of his knives, I'm sure
they will become some of your favorites,
as well. KI
RINALDI KNIFE
FEATURES
LEO
Overall length . . . .10 inches
Blade length . . . . . 5 inches
Steel . . . . . . . . . . . . S30V
Handle . . . . . . . . . . Brown G10
Blade finish . . . . . . Bead blasted
MINI-TUK
Overall length . . . .7 inches
Steel . . . . . . . . . . . . S30V
Handle . . . . . . . . . . Coyote brown
G-10 or carbon
fiber
Blade finish . . . . . . Bead blasted
SICK (Survival Intensive Combat Knife)

Trace Rinaldi calls this knife his Survival Intensive Combat Knife (SICK). It is 12 inches Overall length . . . .12 inches
long overall with a 5-inch S30V blade. Like most of his knives, it features a bead-blasted Blade length . . . . . 5 inches
finish. Handle . . . . . . . . . . OD green G-10
TTKK (Tactical Utility Kitchen Knife)

CONTACT TRACE PRICES AND Handle . . . . . . . . . . F22 carbon fiber
RINALDI DELIVERY TIME TUK
Make it your business to check out Price Range: $300 to $900 (up to Handle . . . . . . . . . . F22 carbon fiber
Trace Rinaldis knives or contact him: $1,500 for some sets) Blade finish . . . . . . Bead blasted
www.thrblades.com; Current delivery time: 10 to 12
trace.rinaldi@gmail.com months.

KI_1211_41 9/27/12 9:48 AM Page 41
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KI_1211_43 9/25/12 3:31 AM Page 43
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KI-1211-QUIZ.qxp 9/25/12 6:30 AM Page 44
Test Your Knife IQ

Match the bios with the knives of The ABS Members
of the Cutlery Hall of Fame
Photos by KI Staff
1 4 5
3 6
Match the maker with the knife!
A. AL PENDRAY D. WILLIAM W. SCAGEL

Al Pendray has been an ABS Master Smith since 1983 and is also Scagel was the inspiration for Bo Randall, who was in turn the
a past president of the Knifemakers Guild. Hes best known for the inspiration for all knifemakers. To say that hes the father of mod-
recreation of Wootz Damascus, featured in Scientific American mag- ern handmade knives is perhaps an understatement.
azine.
E. JIM SCHMIDT
B. W.D. Bo RANDALL Jim Schmidt received his Master Smith stamp the same year as
If you have to ask who Bo Randall is, you probably are not a Bill Moran. Some say he surpassed his major influences, which in-
knife collector. His knifemaking and design skills laid the founda- clude Moran and Jimmy Fikes.
tion for all handmade knives that we see today.
F. DR. JAMES BATSON

C. R.H. Rudy RUANA ABS president for two different terms and Bowie knife historian,
Rudy Ruana of Bonner, MT made knives part time between the good doctor is responsible for Bowies becoming more true to
1938-1953, when he became a full time maker and also became the original designs.
one of the few who preserved the craft of handmade knives.
G. CLYDE FISHER
This Texas knifemaker was awarded the ABS Pioneer Knife Mak-
er honor, making knives from 1957 until his death.

KI-1211-QUIZ.qxp 9/25/12 6:30 AM Page 45
7 13
8 11 14
9
10 12
Match the maker with the knife!
H. JERRY FISK L. JOE KEESLAR

A National Living Treasure artist and an ABS Master Smith since Former ABS president and a major force in the preservation of
2001, there are few aspects of promoting the hand-forged blade the hand-forged blade, and European knifemaking, in general.
that Fisk has not been intimately involved with.
M. JAMES B. LILE
I. DON FOGG The Arkansas knifesmith made knives for Presidents, patented
ABS Master Smith since 1982. knife locks, and created the original knives in the first two Rambo
movies, considered one of the pivotal moments in modern knife
history.
J. DON HASTINGS
One of the original four founders of the American Bladesmiths
Society, and the person for whom the ABSs highest award for a N. WILLIAM F. MORAN
non-knifemaker is named. Founder of the ABS and the rediscoverer of the pattern-welded
Damascus, Moran almost single-handedly created an entire indus-
try for those who make hand-forged knives.
K. JAY HENDRICKSON
Past ABS president, director of the William F. Moran Museum, and Knives from the collection of Paul Lansingh.
an intimate of Moran. Hendrickson was caregiver for Moran during
the legends final years.
If you have to ask

Test Your Knife IQ Answers
who Bo Randall is,
youre probably not a A-2 D-5 G-8 J-11 M-12
knife collector. B-3

C-6
E-4
F-7
H-9
I-10
K-13
L-14
N -1

KI_1211 9/25/12 2:05 PM Page 46
www.meyercousa.com www.meyercousa.com www.meyercousa.com

214-467-8949 214-467-8949 214-467-8949
Meyerco Kirby Lambert Meyerco Greg Lightfoot Meyerco Greg Lightfoot
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Liner Lock Knife
s#2 s#2(ONED s#2(ONED
3TAINLESS3TEEL "LADE "LADE
(ONED"LADE s-ICARTA(ANDLE s&ULL4ANG
s#ARBON&IBER WITH#ARBON #ONSTRUCTION
"OLSTERWITH &IBER"OLSTER
' (ANDLE
s3TAINLESS3TEEL
s4HUMBSTUDAND#LIP #LIP s' (ANDLE
s-EASURES/PEN s-EASURES s-EASURES
s,IMITED&OREVER /PEN /VERALL
7ARRANTY WITHA"LADE WITHA"LADE
s,IMITED&OREVER s,IMITED&OREVER
7ARRANTY 7ARRANTY

214-467-8949 214-467-8949 214-467-8949
Meyerco Jeff Hall Meyerco Jeff Hall Meyerco Jeff Hall Sedona
Antara Assisted Opening Knife Heat Seeker Assisted Opening Knife
Assisted Opening Knife
s#ARBON&IBER
s' -ICARTA s' (ANDLEWITH (ANDLE
(ANDLE #ARBON&IBER s3TAINLESS3TEEL
s3TAINLESS3TEEL "OLSTER 3ATIN&INISH
(ONED"LADE s3TAINLESS3TEEL 3ERRATED"LADE
3ATIN&INISH
(ONED"LADE
s! /+
&UNCTIONALITY s#LIP0OINT"LADE
s$OUBLE,INER,OCK s! /+&UNCTIONALITY s! /+&UNCTIONALITY
s-EASURES#LOSED s-EASURES7#LOSED s-EASURES7#LOSED
/PEN /PEN 7/PEN
s,IMITED&OREVER7ARRANTY s,IMITED&OREVER7ARRANTY s,IMITED&OREVER7ARRANTY

214-467-8949 214-467-8949 214-467-8949
Meyerco Jeff Hall Matrix Meyerco Jeff Hall Yakuza Meyerco Law Dog Knife
Assisted Opening Knife Assisted Opening Knife s2UBBER/VERMOLD
s!LUMINUM' s' (ANDLEWITH (ANDLE
(ANDLE .ESTED3TAINLESS s3TAINLESS3TEEL"LACK
s3TAINLESS3TEEL 3TEEL,INERS &INISH(ONED"LADE
3ATIN&INISH s3TAINLESS3TEEL
3ERRATED"LADE 3ERRATED"LADE
s! /+&UNCTIONALITY s.YLON3HEATHWITH

s-EASURES#LOSED s!MBIDEXTROUS4HUMBSTUD "EAD#HAIN-ETAL#LIP
/PEN s! /+&UNCTIONALITY s-EASURES/VERALL
s,IMITED&OREVER s-EASURES#LOSED/PEN WITHA"LADE
7ARRANTY s,IMITED&OREVER7ARRANTY s,IMITED&OREVER7ARRANTY
KI_1211 9/28/12 4:15 PM Page 47
A quality knife deserves

a quality sheath
All the supplies you need
at tandyleatherfactory.com
FREE Buyers Guide
available TLF_Knives Illustrated_1111
knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED NOVEMBER 2012 47

KI-1211-CLINT.qxp 9/25/12 6:42 AM Page 48
Zombie
Text and Photos by
Clint Thompson
Knives
The right knives for the apocalypse:
December 21, 2012
et ready and gear up for the coming zombie apocalypse. Will dead bodies come back to life as
G flesh-eating zombies?
One day, youre in sunny and warm Hong Kong, and the next day, your hotel is at the North Pole and
youre wondering what happened to Santa. This is one of the apocalypse scenarios
predicted for December 21, 2012. They say the apocalypse will be upon us because of
astronomical alignments that happen every 5,000 years, causing a geomagnet-
ic reversal or pole shift.
BE READY
When such Zombies are roaming the cities and
countryside looking for flesh to eat, I will
be ready. In talking and blogging
with numerous people
s saw
ator Machete
The Gerber G d cut this
functional an
back is very through butter.
t knife
vine like a ho
sed.
I was impres
Bucks Hoodlum is one bad knife.

This knife or short sword is made in the USA and
reflects this fact in its workmanship and quality. If
I were going into harms way again, the Hoodlum
would be packed away in my duffle bag. I just
love this knife. By the time this article comes out,
this very Hoodlum will be in the capable hands of
a U.S. Marine in Afghanistan.

throughout the United States and other countries, the general OUT OF AMMO? GO TO SHARPENED STEEL
consensus about the apocalypse is guardedbut just in case, be If you are one of the fans of AMCs [[The Walking Dead,]] you are
ready. aware of the fictional problems presented by a zombie apocalypse.
To be ready, you will need a survival plana plan you can In this show, it is demonstrated what one must do when confronted
find on the CDC website called Preparedness 101: Zombie Apoc- by a hoard of flesh-eating zombies. Because you will possibly be
alypse. The CDC does not say there will be a zombie apoca- confronting a hoard of zombies, you will run out of ammo and have
lypse, but it uses this model to further educate the public to be no time to reload. When you run out of ammo, you are forced to go
prepared for a viral pandemic. This is an excellent guide for to sharp, cold steel.
you to have. Here are my choices for cutting tools and/or weapons.
Any good plan for the survival of you and your family in a vi-
ral zombie pandemic is to prepare food, water and shelter and GERBER GEARS APOCALYPSE KIT
to defend your home. For defenseremoving the obvious Gerber Gear is an excellent company and unrivaled supplier of
firearms optionsyou should consider a set of good-quality cut- survival equipment. Gerber Gear makes the Gerber Apocalypse Kit,
ting tools that can be used as effective weapons. There are which contains seven cutting tools ideal for a zombie apocalypse or
many cutting tools on the market that can be used as weapons similar emergency.
or are specifically designed for this use. The largest tool is the Gator Machete, which is a jazzed-up machete
For the purposes of this article, I will categorize these cutting with a long and very functional saw on the top side of the 18-inch
tools/weapons into four categories: combat knife, machete, axe blade. I took this steel monster out to the woods and put it through its
and sword.
The Gerb
Machete, er Gator
shown he
an AK-47 re with
semi-amm
7.62X39 C o in
Gator Ma aliber. Th
chete wo e
very func uld be a
tional zom
fighting to bie
ol with th
47 as a lo e AK-
nger-rang
e
standoff to
ol.
e II out in
ber Camp Ax
I used the Ger oo ds an d found
rious w
the field on va e ish on
fin
functional. Th
it to be quite w ell, with just
e held up
this Camp Ax e.
g. I like this ax
a little marrin

THE WALKING
DEAD
POPULARITY
The Walking Dead is based on a
popular comic book with the same ti-
tle. This adult TV show is shown on
AMC; its third season will begin on
October 14, 2012. For those of you
who would like to catch up with this
Two functional cutting tools that could be Gerbers DMF Folder is one strong knife. I
series, you can rent the past seasons
used as defense weapons: the Gerber love the right-hand/left-hand opening abil-
at your ever-dwindling movie rental
Parang, left, and the Gator Machete Pro. ities. I also like the blade design and ser-
ration. This is one functional knife. Also stores, or you can watch the first sea-
For the price, both tools are very well
pictured here are the Gerber Bear Grylls son via Netflix. AMC usually has a
made and will serve the camper, survival-
istand zombie-hunterfor many years. Ultimate Kit and the Bear Grylls Basic marathon of the past season just pri-
Kitboth excellent examples of a survival or to the debut of the newest. Even
must-have. I prefer, and have, the Ulti- though this is just an entertaining
mate Kit, because it seems I find myself in show, it makes one aware of survival
need more than I should! problems and ideas about how to fix
them. Check this series out on the
AK2: GERBER GEAR GATOR Web: http://www.amctv.com/shows
MACHETE PRO /the-walking-dead.
The Gerber Gear Gator Machete Pro is de-
signed to help you hack your way through
the jungle or harvest crops. Like many such bad boy down to keep it from rusting. Bear
tools, the Gator Machete Pro can easily be Grylls: I like your parang.
converted into a weapon to slash and tear And, for any kind of survival situation,
your attacker. At just over a pound in weight the Bear Grylls Ultimate Kit and Basic Kit
The Gerber LMF II Infantry is one excel- and 16 inches long, the Gator Machete are must-haves. I personally have both and
lent knife for hikers or the military. Shown
Pro has the punch needed to cut through carry them with me when traveling out of
here is the LMF II Infantry in its very func-
tional sheath. I have seen many of these thicker objects. I really like this tool. populated areas. My favorite is the Ultimate
being carried by our troops in Iraq. Kit, which is perfect for a glove box, saddle
AK3: ADD A BEAR GRYLLS PARANG bags, backpack and fanny pack. If you trav-
paces. As expected, the straight-edge blade Another good tool in the Gerber Gear el far from home, I highly recommend one
cut easily through brush and 2-inch-diame- survival kit is the Bear Grylls Parang. Its of these Bear Grylls survival kits.
ter saplings. The saw on the top side of the functional general design comes from the
blade worked quickly and efficiently, cutting jungles of Central and South America. This AK4: LMF II INFANTRY
through a menacing vine. The Gator Machete is a good machete-type tool with a good A good, serviceable combat knife I saw
is an excellent choice for DCC (direct combat design. The Bear Grylls Parang worked being used in Iraq is the Gerber Gear LMF II
contact) with zombies or other combatants. quite well as a cutting tool and would be a Infantry. Gerber Gear added this knife to its
very good weapon if one were forced to Apocalypse Kit for an easy carry while
AK1: CAMP AXE II FOR use it in self-defense. I chopped through a trekking around the countryside looking for
TOMAHAWK FANS large watermelon with no problem. shelter and food. The LMF II Infantry is an
For tomahawk and axe fans, the Camp Keep in mind that these tools are made excellent choice for a combat knife. The
Axe II, with its overall length of 17 inches, of steel and will rust, so you should clean construction is heavy duty but not too heavy
is an excellently designed tool. While in the off all the acidic zombie blood and oil this to carry all day. The design is functional and
woods, I came upon a wily zombie tree that
begged to be freed from its plight. I swung
the Camp Axe II into my adversary, burying CDC PREPAREDNESS 101:
axes head a good 2 inches deep. If this
were a real zombie or other attacker, the
ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE
CDC has a fun new way of teaching the importance of emergency preparedness.
Camp Axe II would have ended all hostili- Its new graphic novel, Preparedness 101: Zombie Pandemic, demonstrates in an en-
ties. As a functional tool, it would be great tertaining way for people of all ages the importance of being prepared. Read about
for splitting wood and felling medium-size Todd, Julie and dog Max as the trio faces a pandemic virus that turns ordinary people
trees. into zombies.
For more information, visit http://www.cdc.gov/phpr/zombies_novella.htm.

OTHER APOCALYSE THEORIESONE REAL!

Another apocalypse theory is that when our sun and surrounding solar system travel through and around our galaxy, about
every 26 million years, the sun wanders outside of the galactic plane. When this happens, the sun bisects the galactic disc, with
the influence of the galactic tide becoming weaker. When the sun wanders back into the galactic disc, the galactic tide becomes
stronger, causing the increase flux of comets into the inner solar system, in which the earth resides. Mathematical models and fos-
sil records tend to support this theory; the earth could be impacted by comets or other celestial objects. However, the good news
on this theory is that we have about 23,000,000 years to go.
Will dead bodies come back to life as flesh-eating zombies? No. But viral infections causing people to attack one another is one
possibly. This theory is attributed to an astronomical alignment and other natural factors that will trigger a viral pandemic event.
The virus will attack the human brain in the central nervous system and equate to a reaction similar to rabies causing the host to
go mad and attack other humans who do not have the virus.
OTHER ALTERNATIVES: BUCK HOOD-

LUM FOR HARMS WAY
If you are going into harms way or are
surviving an apocalyptic situation and re-
quire a made-in-the-USA weapon, the
Buck Hoodlum is the short sword for you.
The LMF II Infantry is a very well-designed The Hoodlum is a well-designed weapon or
fix-bladed knife. This knife is strongly
For a small knife, the Epic is capable of tool. It is designed to slash, chop and stab.
made and can stand up to serious chal-
large things. I would not want to fight a Based on my experience in places where,
lenges. If you have a loved one in harms
virus-infected zombie with only this
way, he or she deserves a combat knife at a moments notice, the air can fill with
knife. However, for backpacking or
like the LMF II. I love this knife. copper-jacketed dirt-nap pills, I would say
urban defense, this little dynamo would
be perfect. the Hoodlum would be perfect for use by
be perfect to clean any game one would military and mercenary personnel, alike.
made for hard use. In a DCC situation, the shoot or trap. In a non-apocalypse environ- The Hoodlums 10-inch blade puts it in the
LMF II Infantry would be best used for a ment, the Epic would make a good boot short sword or machete category. It weighs
stabbing strike to the head of the pesky, old knife, serviceable LEO (law enforcement of- just under a pound, making it perfect for
zombie bent on taking a bite out of you. ficer) tool or would be perfect for any emer- humping over hill and more hills. Com-
gency responders. The Epic is very well ing with the Hoodlum is an excellently de-
AK5: GERBER GEAR DMF FOLDER made and priced right. signed sheath that sports a pouch for your
For folding knife fans, the Gerber Gear favorite multitool or extra pistol mag. I
DMF Folder is my favorite folder of all the
Gerber Gear Apocalypse Kit knives. This
excellent knife comes in the standard, one-
handed, ambidextrous opening system. The
DMF Folder features a reversible pocket clip
and G-10 handle with a sure grip design
for bare hands or gloves. It has a great feel.
A modified clip-point blade and partially
serrated tactical edge make this knife a
perfect tactical folder. I love this knife.
In fact, by the time this article comes out,
this very knife will be in the capable hands
of a United States Marine serving in
Afghanistan.
AK6: SPECIALIZED TOOL

As in most multiuse kits, a small, special-
ized tool will be included. The Gerber Gear
Apocalypse Kit is no exception. In this kit,
such a knife is the Epic. Now, I would not
want to fend off a hoard of hungry zombies
with this little devil, but this knife would

place the Hoodlum in my bad ass catego-

ry. You just have to have one of these.
ZOMBIES STEER CLEAR OF THE U.S.

MARINES
KA-BAR, a legendary knife manufacturing
company, has provided us zombie hunters
with several tools for our trade. Two of If an excellent large knife is not enough,
these anti-zombie devices are the Zombie Buck gave it a top-notch sheath that only
Chop Stick and the Zombie War Sword. enhances the Hoodlums functionality. This
sheath holds the Hoodlum securely and
KA-BAR has joined in the fun spirit of The Gerber Apocalypse Kit is being held sports a pouch capable of holding vital
the zombie craze by giving the sweet touch by budding zombie-hunter, Jackson Felix. items, such as a Buck X-Tract multitool.
to its zombie tool selection with the addi- This kit includes seven cutting tools and a
very nice canvas carrying case. This kit is
tion of Zombie Green handles. Included
quite cool and a must for zombie-hunters.
with each anti-zombie tool is a pair of I know Zombie Destroyer Jackson likes will be in the hands of some very capable
black handles. These are meant for those this kit. Marines. If I were a zombie and still had
who dont want to offend zombies with some sense, I would steer clear of the U.S.
stereotyping them as being just that. killers. In choosing the tools to purchase for Marines. I know the Marines receiving these
As I inspected these tools for the zombie the fast-approaching apocalypse, the KA- two excellent weapons that I have passed
hoards to come, I found them to be well BAR Zombie War Sword and Zombie Chop along will just love them as much as I do.
made and designed with an excellent Stick should be high on your list.
blade finish. KA-BARs reputation for quali- And, in case the zombie apocalypse FOR THE REAL BAD BOYS
ty shines throughout these two zombie- strikes Afghanistan, these zombie-killers The TOPS CUMA Evolution is one knife a
PRODUCT INFORMATION
LMF II Infantry nylon bag with waterproof zipper,
GERBER GEAR Blade length: 4.84 inches land-to-air rescue instructions, Priori-
KA-BAR KNIVES
Overall length: 10.59 inches ties of Survival (pocket guide that con- Zombie Chop Stick
Apocalypse Kit
Blade: 420HC stainless tains Bear Grylls survival essentials). Blade length: 9 inches
MSRP: $349 (expect to pay $349)
Weight with sheath: 24.28 ounces MSRP: $52 (expect to pay $42.75) Overall length: 14 5/8 inches
Included in the Apocalypse Kit are the
Weight without sheath: 11.67 ounces Steel: SK5, HRC 52-54
following items: Bear Grylls Basic Kit
Handle: GFN handle with GPT over- Grind: Flat, edge angles 37.5 degrees
Gator Machete Eight-piece kit contains: Waterproof
mold Weight: 1.25 pounds
Overall length: 25.7 inches Bag, Gerber Mini-Paraframe Knife,
MSRP: $108 (expect to pay $84.95) Handle: GFN-PA66
Blade length: 18 inches Emergency Whistle, Fire Starter, Wa-
MSRP: $79.41 (expect to pay $52.25)
Blade: High-carbon steel DMF Folder terproof Matches, Snare Wire, Emer-
Blade length: 3.5 inches gency Cord, Cotton Ball/Fire Tinder, Zombie War Sword
Weight: 18 ounces
Open length: 8.4 inches ripstop nylon bag with waterproof zip- Blade length: 9 3/4 inches
Handle: Gator-Grip
Closed length: 4.8 inches per, land-to-air rescue instructions, Overall length: 15 1/8 inches
MSRP: $23 (expect to pay $20)
Blade: Not given Priorities of Survival. Steel: SK5, HRC 52-54
Camp Axe II Weight: 6.2 ounces MSRP: $23 (expect to pay $18.99) Grind: Taper, edge angles 20 degrees
Blade length: 2.93 inches Handle: Black G-10 Weight: 1.00 pound
Overall length: 7.32 inches Gerber Gear
MSRP: $69 (expect to pay $52.95) Handle: GFN-PA66
Blade: forged steel 14200 SW 72nd Avenue
Weight: 34.6 ounces Epic Portland, OR 97224
Blade length: 3.45 inches 800-950-6161 CUMA Evolution
Handle: Glass-filled nylon
Overall length: 7.3 inches Blade length: 4 5/8 inches
MSRP: $52 (expect to pay $41.99)
Blade: Not given Overall length: 10 inches
Gator Machete Pro
Blade length: 10.5 inches
Weigh: 5.12 ounces BUCK KNIVES Steel: 1095 high carbon, RC 56-58
Handle: Textured glass-filled nylon Handle: RMT black linen Micarta
Overall length: 16.5 inches Hoodlum
MSRP: $43 (expect to pay $32.95) Weight with sheath: 14.4 ounces
Blade: High-carbon steel Blade length: 10 inches
Weight without sheath: 10.5 ounces
Weight: 18 ounces Overall length: 14 5/8 inches
Designed by: Waysun Johnny Tsai
Steel: 5160 carbon steel
Handle: Gator-Grip
MSRP: $53 (expect to pay $42.40)
GERBER Weight: 14.6 ounces
Parang
SURVIVAL KITS Handle: Micarta
Bear Grylls Ultimate Kit Forever warranty
Blade length: 13.5 inches MSRP: $242 (expect to pay $164.95) KA-BAR Knives, Inc.
Overall length: 19.5 inches 16 -piece kit contains: Gerber Minia-
ture Multi-tool, Waterproof Bag, Minia- Buck Knives 200 Homer Street
Blade: not given Olean, NY 14760
Weight (with sheath): 25.4 ounces ture Light, Hand Saw, Signaling Mir- 660 S. Lochsa Street
ror, Survival Blanket, Fire Starter, Post Falls, ID 83854 716-372-5952
Weight (without sheath): 19.4 ounces Toll free: 800-282-0130
Handle: Textured rubber grip Waterproof matches, Cotton Ball/Fire 208-262-0500
Tinder, Snare Wire, Emergency Cord, Fax: 716-790-7188
MSRP: $43 (expect to pay: $41.95) info@ka-bar.com
Waxed Thread, Fishing Kit, Sewing kit,
Lanyard Whistle, Lightweight, ripstop

SMITHS EDGE 50281 PRO ELECTRIC $9.95/100FT

Genuine 550 lb. Type III, 1/8" diameter
KNIFE SHARPENER nylon Paracord with a seven strand core.
46 colors available.
Electric Sharpening Features: Interlocking wheels of two abrasives (diamonds
and ceramics) sharpen both sides of the blade simultaneously and reduce the
amount of time needed to sharpen the edge.
Manual Sharpening Features: Serrated blade sharpening slot at preset sharpen-
ing angles for guaranteed results every time.
SMITHS EDGE WEAR

747 Mid America Boulevard PC101 White
5
5
Hot Springs, AR 71913
501.701-5949
PC102 Black
PC103 Olive Drab 0

PC104 Coyote Brown
PC106 Charcoal
P
After a long month of chopping zombie
PC108 Burgundy
A
In the spirit of the zombie apocalypse,
R
KA-BAR has created several cutting tools. heads and other zombie appendages, you
Two of these are the Zombie War Sword will definitely want to keep your tools
PC116 Colonial Blue
(top) and the Zombie Chop Stick (bottom). sharp and ready for the next zombie
attack. The Smith 50281 Adjustable Edge
A
Also shown are the SigArms 1911 .45acp
and a box of Hornady Zombie Defense Pro Electric Knife Sharpener will fit that
bill. And in case you need a DCC (direct PC118 Neon Orange
Ammo in .45acp caliber. Good anti-zom-
bie stuff. combat contact) knife, the TOPS CUMA
C
Evolution is the way to go.
PC123 Solar Orange
warrior should carry when going afield to mentioned here, you will at least be well
O
thin out the zombie hoards. This knife was equipped for most jobs requiring a quality PC127 Desert Camo
designed by Sijo Waysun Johnny Tsai, who cutting tool.
runs a Chinese Kung Fu CUMA (combined However, if you wake up on the 21st to
R
PC128 Foliage Camo
universal martial applications) combative find your front yard full of hungry flesh-
street defense center in Chicago. The eating zombies, you cant say I didnt warn
CUMA Evolution, like all TOPS knives, is a you to be prepared. Good luck. KI PC140 G.I. Camo
D
superbly made knife with long field service
use that TOPS kept in mind for its design. PC139 Galaxy
I found the Evolutions blade design to
Side Release Buckles
be very strong, right down to the tip of the ADDITIONAL Durable plastic side release buckles
point. For someone who has been in com- SOURCES used to complete paracord bracelets.
bat, I can say this knife is well suited. If you Available in 3/8 and 5/8 sizes.
Hornady Manufacturing Company
have a loved one possibly headed into
3625 West Old Potash Highway
harms way, and you want to give them a
Grand Island, NE 68803
gift from the heart, what better gift than
800-338-3220
something that could very well save his or
308-382-1390
her life? Commando types need one of PC993 3/8 (PKG OF 10) Assorted 6.95
these bad boys. TOPS KNIVES PC995 5/8 (PKG OF 10) Assorted 6.95
If December 21, 2012, comes and goes
without a zombie to be found or a comet
Tactical Operational Products
P.O. Box 2544
JANTZ
slamming into the Earth, then feel blessed.
If you are prepared with any of the knives
Idaho Falls, ID 83403 1-800-351-8900
208-542-0113
knifemaking.com
KI-1211-CANVAS.qxp 9/27/12 12:05 AM Page 54
Shane Taylor of Miles City,

Montana, calls the steel on
this 9-inch knife Mosaic
Dice. To match the theme, he
has a royal flush engraved on
the frame and carved card
suits in the mastodon ivory
handles.
Steel
Canvas Art in the media of steel
By J. Bruce Voyles
PHOTOS BY ERI C EGGLY/ POI NT SEVEN STUDI OS
WHAT IS ART?
Volumes have been written trying to define that question
with no universally accepted answer. And when the question is
applied to knives, its the same answer.
DIFFICULTIES
One problem with knives being accepted within what is con-
sidered the fine art community of art galleries and museums is
that here seems to be an aversion to anything that is generical-
ly considered a weapon.
Of course, that is a narrow-minded approach when one con-
siders that the Metropolitan Museum of Art has a large display
of swords on displayand I once spent several interesting
hours accompanied by Dr. Helmut Nickel and Bill Karsten in the
arms storage rooms of that institution examining their large
collection of Scottish dirks.
The Wallace Collection in Londonin addition to Rembrandts
and the classic Boucher rococo painting, The Swinghas one
of the largest collections of medieval arms (including swords
and daggers), but this is also a nation that now bans the carry-
ing of knives and bombasts the public with stories in the press
of knife thugs.
Suffice to say that its hard for the artistic knifemaker to be
taken seriously by that market. John White combines three traditional Bowie styles in one
That is not to say that there has not been some progress. knife: the old Spanish notch and dog bone handle from the
1840s, and the D-guard popularized by Confederate troops in
John Jenson, a knifemaker with a background that in the 1860s. It was art then and its art now.

James Rodebaughs coffin hilt Damascus

looks light, quick and hand fitting before
its even touched. The Damascus is Turk-
ish twist, the handles mammoth ivory,
and the liners are fine silver. And the
entire knife is a takedown model. Nice!
Jens Anso combines a Damascus blade with inlaid Damascus handles for an excep-
tional folder.
A set of four dragon carved folders by

cludes the Rhode Island School of Design, Attendance has been strong, and the Lloyd Williams are reminiscent of carved
has arranged showings at the National event has exposed knives to an art audi- figure folders that date to medieval times,
Metalworks Museum in Memphis, Ten- ence that has a familiarity with finely similar to those found in the Kingen
nessee. crafted metalwork. Museum in Solingen, Germany.
LOOKS TOO MUCH

KNIVES IN THE ART WORLD LIKE A KNIFE
There were a couple of knifemakers who were considered to be at the fore-
Knifemakers Guild member Dan
front of the art knife market, and they tried to make entry into the fine art mar-
Dagget was a quality knifemaker,
ketto the point of enlisting some gallery owners for a potential showing, en-
and to further his career he decided
listing an agent, and going through the same motions as the painter, sculptor, to study art at college. Dan made a
photographer, or what are accepted standards of art media. quality knife for one of his art class
The makers met resistance with their knives, until one agent bluntly told them assignments, for which his profes-
that the New York art market was contingent upon being accepted and hanging sor gave him a bad grade. When
out with Andy Warhol and his entourage. asked why, the professors reply
After a review of some of the things that such hanging out would likely entail, was, It looks too much like a
the two gave up on their attempts to break into the fine art market. knife.

Reliable Cutting Performance

Wherever the Waters
May Carry you
Bill Ruple combines extraordinary talent,

a friendly Texas attitude and work that
improves with every knife. Handles are
genuine stag, bolsters are fully engraved
by Joe Muson, and the Damascus blades
are feather patterned.
SPYDERCO SALT SERIES

FOLDERS AND FIXED BLADES
ARE MADE WITH H-1,
A NITROGEN BASED,
NON-RUSTING BLADE STEEL.
WWW.SPYDERCO.COM
800.525.7770 303.279.8383
When two handle panels are not enough

for your engraving, Canadian Wally Hayes
solved the problem with the innovation of
adding a swiveling handle to reveal an
engraved liner. The mounts are 24K gold.
Arpad Bojtos of the Slovak Republic

includes carved figures of a Faun and
Nymph on his mammoth ivory handled art
knife.
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED NOVEMBER 2012 5 7

DEAD HORSES munity, then we dont care if they accept that is overly embellished, although for
Some knife enthusiasts and makers decid- knives as art or not. We do. some collectors that is indeed the defining
ed long ago that as long as there were those line. Rather, its the lines of the knife, the
who appreciated finely crafted knives, and DEFINITIONS fit to form and function, and most impor-
there was a market outside the fine art com- My definition of an art knife is not one tantly, a knife that calls out to be picked
up, even from a photograph. An approach
to the knifes style and design thats differ-
ent or uncommon adds points to the tally.
So what you see here is a selection of
knives that fit my definition of an art knife
Lloyd McConnells carved ivory-handled

folder includes large splashes of 18K gold,
plus matching watermelon tourmaline
stones on the handle and a stingray-cov-
ered sheath.
Wes Crawford is best known for making tactical folders. At first glancewith the Dam-
ascus blade and bolsters combined with mammoth tooth handlesone might not real-
ize that the core of this gussied-up knife is a strong, functional and tactical folder. It just
happens to be pretty, too!
Definition of An Art Knife

Its the lines of the knife
The fit to form and function The carved elk antler handle accents
Daniel Stephans futuristic fixed blade.
Most importantly, it is a knife that calls out to be picked up
The blade is inlaid with gold and rubies,
The knifes style and design thats different or uncommon adds points and the handle is adorned with carved sil-
to the tally. ver pins.

KI_1211_59 9/27/12 9:49 AM Page 59
The National Museum of the

United States Army, scheduled
to open at Fort Belvoir, Virginia
in 2015 will be the nations one
and only Museum to present the
complete Armys history since
1775. Its immersive exhibits,
soldier artifacts, and dynamic
venues will tell the stories of
VHOHVVVHUYLFHDQGSHUVRQDO
VDFULFHVRI WKHPLOOLRQ
American men and women who
have worn the Army uniform.
A Great Army Deserves a Great Museum

For more information on how to
support the National Army Museum,
visit us online today!
www.armyhistory.org
1-800-506-2672

www.KnivesIllustrated.com
The premier
knife magazine
s The hottest knives and latest
innovations in steel and design
sThe latest news, views, and reviews
sHard testing of knives and the results
KI_1211_60 9/27/12 1:16 AM Page 60

www.KnivesIllustrated.com
The premier knife magazine

s4HEHOTTESTKNIVESANDLATESTINNOVATIONSINSTEELANDDESIGN
s4HELATESTNEWSVIEWSANDREVIEWSs(ARDTESTINGOFKNIVESANDTHERESULTS
Steve Hoel has

been at the
forefront of art
folders since
before the
phrase was
coined. There
are few better
examples than
his latest work,
featuring
engraving by
Barry Lee
Hands. And,
yes, that is gold
engraving on
the black pearl
handles.
Its twist Damascus as the steel of choice Larry Pridgen of Fitzgerald, Georgia,
for this Vince Evans dagger with fossil used carved antler for this Damascus
walrus ivory. The overall length is 15 short sword. Overall length is almost 3
inches. feet, with a 26-inch blade.
from the files of Eric Eggly of Point Seven about such things are what make the world
Studiosand whose photography is art by go around.
my standards, as well. Luckily, whoever may be right or wrong
And if you dont think that these knives will have little effect on the crisis in the
are art knives by your standards, then wel- Middle East, the national debt or the
come to the debate. Differences of opinion homeless. KI

KI-1211-SPECIALSECT.qxp 9/27/12 12:55 AM Page 62
Transcending
Traditional
Knives There is a reason why knife designs
still prosper after 100 years.
By J. Bruce Voyles
PHOTOS SUPPLIED BY THE MANUFACTURERS
raditional patterns mean one thinglongevity. Failing to sur- man bent over with a burden of steel traps across his back, a lever-
T vive the perils of the open marketplace finds many once-

popular patterns ending up on the trash heap of history.
While short-run reject patterns may be desired by collectors, if you
action Winchester in one hand, held balanced just in front of the
lever, trudging through calf-deep snow on his appointed rounds.
Sorry, but 6254 just doesnt do that, although most collectors in-
are going to use a knife you likely are most interested in perfor- stantly recognize that as the pattern number for a Case trapper. Try it
mance. for yourself. What pictures come to mind when you hear names like
A knife that doesnt muskrat, hawkbill, marlin spike, electrician or stockman?
I recall the first perform, that doesnt
live up to its billing, FUNCTION WINS OUT
time I tried to does not remain in the Most traditional knives will have multi-blades. Thats because, in
convince an old inventories of a knife the real world, workmen who use knives need a sharp blade, and a
courthouse company. But when a less-sharp blade for the rough duties, and that third blade doesnt
knife does perform, hurt as a back-up.
trader of the when it exceeds expec- These knives originated in a time when locking the back was
advantages of a tations, and when it ex- considered unnecessary. Always cut away from yourself was not
lockback knife. ceeds those expecta- just a saying, it was good advice. I recall the first time I tried to
Excuse me, tions year after year, convince an old courthouse trader of the advantages of a lockback
that knife will likely be- knife. Excuse me, sonny, he said, I plan to do my cutting with
sonny, he said, come a standard, a clas- the sharp side of the knife, so theres no need to lock that blade.
I plan to do my sic, a traditional.
cutting with the TRIED AND TRUE
A CATCHY NAME Look around at the selections of many cutlery companies. There
sharp side of the NEVER HURTS are still a great many traditional knives hidden in among those
knife, so theres It does hurt for a black-handled serious-looking folders. The knives illustrating this
no need to lock knife to have a catchy article are but a mere sampling. Theres a reason why theyre still
that blade. name. For instance, around they work.
walking into a hard- In a world in which new is the buzzword, when tactical
ware store or big box knives have superseded what we used to call survival knives,
retailer and telling the clerk, I want to see 175 or I want to com- when lockbacks crowd out multi-blades on many store shelves,
pare your 6254s doesnt have the ring of I would like to take a and, yes, in a time when requirements of having a cutting tool
look at your trappers. close at hand are diminished, there is still something comforting
The name trapper conjures a mind picture for me of a grizzled about a knife that has survived 100 years of trends and change.

BOKER PLUS FAT

BELLY TRAPPER
Overall: 5 5/8 inches
Blade: 2 1/2 inches
Steel: 440C
Handle: Brown bone
Retail: $21.95
Comment: Vintage pre-WWII pattern but featuring stainless
steel components, grooved bolsters and a classic shield.
BOKER PLUS MINI STOCKMAN

Closed: 3 1/4 inches
Steel: 440C
Handle: Synthetic
Retail: $19.95
Comment: Also available in a three-blade version.
BOKER PLUS HAWKBILL

Overall: 7 inches
Closed: 4 inches
Blade: 3 inches
Steel: 440C
Handle: Delrin
Retail: $21.95
Comment: Has a miner blade etch and a lanyard hole.

CASE STAG TRAPPER 5254

Handle: Genuine sambar stag
Retail: $141.20
Comment: The best-selling traditional pattern for many years.
BUCK 301CW THREE-BLADE STOCKMAN

Blade: (master blade) 3 inches
Steel: 420HC
Handle: Dymondwood
Retail: $57
Comment: This Chairman series version features a Chuck Buck signature in the handle.

'RQW/HW<RXU
%ODGH/HW *HQXLQH
6DPEDU
<RX'RZQ 6WDJ
6WDLQOHVV6WHHO
*XDUG
BUCK CANOE %LVRQ%RZLH
KH2536
Blade: (master blade) 2 1/2 inches
Steel: 420J2 +DQG)RUJHG
Handle: Woodgrain +:6.6WHHO
Weight: 2.7 ounces
Retail: $27
Comment: The Canoe takes its name 6WHHO5HLQIRUFHG
from its canoe shape. +DQG6WLWFKHG
6KHDWKRI%DUN
7DQQHG/HDWKHU
CASE ROSE-
WOOD HAWKBILL ZZZFDVKDQZHLFRP_
Closed: 4 inches
Handle: Smooth rosewood
Steel: Stainless
Weight: 3 1/4 ounces
Retail: $82.10
Comment: The Hawkbill has long been
a mandatory tool for serious cutting
chores.

TIMBERLINE
SNAP-ON
STOCKMAN
Closed: 2.56 inches
Blade: (master blade) 1.75 inches
Steel: 440 stainless
Handle: Bone
Retail: $29.99
Comment: The stockman pattern
comes in many sizes, and the
smaller versions like this are ideal
for urban wear.
CASE STAG MUSKRAT

Blade: 2 7/8 inches
Handle: Genuine sambar stag
Steel: Surgical steel
Weight: 2.6 ounces
Retail: $139.99
Comment: The muskrat pattern takes its name
from the two matching blades, considered the
perfect shape and length for muskrat trappers.

COLUMBIA RIVER
KNIFE & TOOL
TEXAS
TOOTHPICK
Blade: 2 3/4 inches
Weight: 1.6 ounces
Retail: $29.99
Comment: The Texas Toothpick comes
in big, small and medium sizes. The
CRKT model is in the medium cate-
gory.
SOG-EL30
CONTRACTOR III
Blade: 2.875 inches
Steel: 6Cr12Mov
Handles: G10
Weight: 2.1 ounces
Retail: $55
Comment: This modernized electricians knife
has a lanyard hole instead of a traditional wire
bail.
SOG FF23-CP NAUTICAL

MARLIN SPIKE
Overall: 7.125 inches
Blade: 2.9 inches
Steel: 6Cr12Mov
Handle: GRN
Weight: 7.9 ounces
Retail: $70
Comment: A marlin spike is almost mandatory for loos-
ening knots on sailing vessels.

COLUMBIA
RIVER KNIFE
& TOOL
TRAPPER
Closed: 3 inches
Blade: 2 3/4 inches
Steel: 7Cr17MoV
Handle: Jigged bone
Weight: 2.8 ounces
Retail: $39.95
Comment: Trapper knives have
long ago transcended those
who trap animals for income
and have become the most
popular traditional pattern knife.
There is still
something
comforting
about a knife
that has sur-
vived 100
years of
trends and
change.

UNITED
CUTLERY
TRIBUTE
TRAPPER
Closed: 4 inches
Steel: AUS-8
Handle: Green bone
Retail: $54
Comment: United Cutlery
chose the traditional
trapper pattern for their
Special Operations Asso-
ciation collectible knife,
which includes a presen-
tation box and an SOA
Challenge coin.
WESTERN CUTLERY GRANDPA

THREE-BLADE
Steel: Titanium bonded 440
Handle: Bone composition
Retail: $23.58
Comment: The modern Camillus rebirth includes the Western mark,
and they appropriately use it for their traditional knives.
POPULAR TRADITIONAL KNIFE NAMES

Trapper Electrician
Muskrat Copperhead
Stockman Congress
Hawkbill Sowbelly
KI

KI_1211_71 9/27/12 9:52 AM Page 71
KI-1211-MANTIS.qxp 9/25/12 7:00 AM Page 72
Top to Bottom:
Mantis MR-1B Aardvark,
MT-9 and MT-9c

Unique&
Innovative
Mantis Knives: Edgy designs
combined with utility
Text and Photos by Abe Elias
THERES NO SHORTAGE OF SELECTION blasted finish. The Aardvark is described by

Today, you have the ability to buy a knife Mantis as a supercharged version of our
with a design that appeals to whatever style MR-1 Isosceles.
you may have in mind. For the last few years, The hawkbill design is hollow ground
Jared West, the owner of Mantis Knives, has with a partially serrated edge. The blade is
been sharing his own artistic vision with made of AUS 8 and the frame lock body is
knives that are as unique as they are innova- 420 stainless steel. Blade thickness is a
tive. Jared has incorporated a truly futuristic slight 3/32-inch, which makes this edge a
look into his knife designs. wicked little cutter. I found the Hawkbill de-
We take a look at three such Mantis knives sign excellent for trace cuts and jobs like
here. I picked three models to take for a spin stripping wire where you need an articulat-
as an urban EDC and to have on hand for those ed tip. The skeletal frame lock body is light
odd jobs that always come up. and comes with a belt slip for carrying. An
ambidextrous thumb stud is provided to
KNIFE 1: AARDVARK open the Aardvark. Overall, I was impressed
I chose the MR1B Aardvark because it has with this high tech-looking package. I did
an overall trim design. With some EDCs I look find the handle to be a little small for my
for ease of carry. The Aardvark is not only trim hand, but was still able to maintain ample
but it has a hawkbill blade, which I normally control over the cutting edge at all times.
dont carry and wanted to try.
Closed length for the Aardvark is 3 7/8 THE MT MODELS
inches and it has a blade length of 2 7/8 inch- The MT-9 and MT-9C are variations on the
es. The frame and blade have a light bead- same model. Both have a closed length of 3

A drop point design on the MT-9C adds a variation to the MT series.
The Aardvark
The aggressive
comes with a tip and flat grin
trim streamlined
clip to comple- make it a beefy
ment the overall
trim design.
utility cutter.
1/2 inches, Making up the body of the MT
series is stainless steel liners with ma-
chined G10-scale and an ambidextrous
pocket clip. Both designs have liner locks
with ambidextrous opening blades, making
the design a complete one-handed opener.
KNIFE 2: MT-9
The body dimensions on the MT series
are particularly stout, measuring 5/8-inch
thick. These little knives are built like bomb
shelters. They differ only in blade design.
The MT-9 has a CPM-440V stainless steel
Wharncliffe blade thats 1/4 inch at the
spine and 2 3/16 inches long. One would
figure that that thick of a blade would be a
lousy cutter, but Mantis has ground the
blade flat to a thin point. Granted its no
whittler, but the aggressive tip and flat grin
make it a beefy utility cutter.
KNIFE 3: MT-9C
The MT-9C is a spear tip design that also
The Aardvarks trim hawkbill blade is locked into place with a full frame lock design. measures 1/4 inch at the spine, but Mantis
MR1B-
AARDVARK
Blade: 2 7/8 inches
Steel: AUS-8
Frame steel: 420
Lock: Frame lock
Blade shape: Hawkbill
Weight: 3 1/2 ounces
Retail: $50
MT9 PIT BOSS

Blade: 2 3/16 inches
Blade: 440V
Thickness: 1/4 inch
Handles: G-10
Lock: Locking liner
Blade shape: Modified sheeps-
foot
Weight: 5 ounces
Retail: $65
MT9C
TOUGH TONY
Blade: 2 3/16 inches
Blade: 440V
Thickness: 1/4 inch
Handles: G-10
Lock: Locking liner
Blade shape: Modified drop point
Weight: 5 ounces
Retail: $65

For those of you

who are used to
adjusting the pivot
point to your lik-
ing, doing so will
require some spe-
cial tools.
manages to get a solid utility edge out of this

stout folder because of a hollow ground. Built
tough, I had no problem with either of these
A double thumb stud offers an ambidextrous opening feature to the Aardvark. models. They took a lot of use and didnt
seem to mind one bit.
The MT series Even though the length of the handle
sports stout 1/4- doesnt fill the hand, the width provides plenty
inch thick blades
of purchase for a safe grip. The incongruence
at the spine,
making them between the beefy look and the actual utility is
sturdy utility a nice surprise.
knives.
THE ONLY NEGATIVES
One of the few negatives I found with all
three models is the pivot point caps. Mantis
doesnt use a standard screw cap for the pivot
point, so for those of you who are used to ad-
justing the pivot point to your liking, doing so
will require some special tools.
I admit the futuristic look of Mantiss designs
can be a bit off-putting to a traditional knife
user like myself, but as I always tell people,
looks are what first attract you and utility
keeps you coming back.
COMBINING STYLE AND UTILITY

For those of you who appreciate a futuristic
style combined with utility, I suggest checking
out the Mantis line. Im sure that you will find
something to your liking and be happy with a
well-built knife with a great fit and finish. KI
To match the
blockhouse con-
struction, the MT
Contact:
series is equipped Mantis Knives
with a sturdy flat 1580 N. HARMONY CIRCLE
pocket clip. ANAHEIM, CA 92807
(714) 701-9136
www. Mantisknives.com
Fans of Mantis are invited to join the
Mantis Militia
www.mantisknives.com/mantismilitia

KI-1211-ADINDEX.qxp 9/27/12 12:57 AM Page 77
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KI_1211_78 9/27/12 9:54 AM Page 78
Find
At The Shops
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Plaza Cutlery
3333 Bristol St. Ste 2060
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 549-3932
dan@plazacutlery.com 18th Annual
Rivers Edge Cutlery

3977 Trueman Blvd.
Hilliard, OH 43026
(614) 777-8833 A R K A NSA S
CUSTOM KNIFE SHOW
customerservice@riversedgecutlery.com
LITTLE ROCK, AR
Harrys Army
and Navy Store FEB. 16 & 17
691 Route 130 Robinson Center Exhibition Hall
Robbinsville,NJ 08691 424 W. Markham (by DoubleTree Hotel)
(609) 585-5450
markhmerkh@harris.com
Open to the Public S AT : 10-5 S UN : 10-3 Donated Knives
$10 Admission DOUBLETREE HOTEL: to be given away at the show
800/937-2789 501/372-4371
DarkThreads.com SPECIAL HOTEL SHOW RATE:
517 Halsey Ave. $112 SINGLE/DOUBLE $122 TRIPLE $132 QUAD
Pittsburgh. PA 15221 FRIDAY NIGHT RECEPTION GRAND PRIZE
(412) 351-6478
sales@darkthreads.com
Joe Flournoy
Bill Miller
Heimerdinger Burr King

Grinder
Cutlery Inc.
4207 Shelbyville Rd.
Louisville, KY 40207
(888) 267-9572 Ray Kirk
www.heimerdingercutlery.com Mark Nevling
Tom Ferry, WA Knife Photos by:
Jerry Fisk, AR Chuck Ward
Joe Flournoy, AR
Ronnie Foster, AR
Tommy Gann, TX
Gage Glisson, AR
Gordon Graham, TX
Mike Allen, TX Bob Ham, AZ
David Anders, AR Don Hanson III, MO James Scroggs, MO
Karl B. Andersen, IL Douglas-Gail Hardy, GA Richard Self, TX ABS
Reggie Barker, LA John Horrigan, TX Ben Seward, AR Alabama Damascus
Jim Batson, GA Gary House, WA Butch Sheely, OH Ankrom Exotics
Kim Breed, TN Alan Hutchinson, AR Robert P. Smith, MO CKCA
Tim Britton, NC Larry Inman, AR Marvin Solomon, AR Culpepper & Co.
Benoni Bullard, AR Lacy Key, AR Jim Magee, KS John Perry, AR Craig Steketee, MO Forrest Cases
Bruce Bump, WA Harvey King, KS Roger Massey, AR Jerry Petty, AR Douglas Stice, KS Giraffebone, Inc.
Bill Buxton, MO Ray Kirk, OK Jerry McClure, OK Bill Post, AR Ed Sticker, MS Glendo Corporation
Attention Shop Owners: The Doug Campbell, MT Bill Kirkes, AR W. J. McDonald, TN Larry Pridgen, GA Charles Stout, AR Green River Leather
Hog Abrasives
Joel Chamblin, GA Knifeology, KS Shawn McIntyre, AUS Mike Quesenberry, CA Johnny Stout, TX
Direct Dealer Program Draws Jimmy Chen, Taiwan Jason Knight, SC Robert Merz, TX Vernon Red, AR Tim Tabor, FL Knife World
Jon Christensen, MT Jerry Lairson, OK Bill Miller, MO Lin Rhea, AR Brian Thie, IA Kochheiser Ivory
consumers attention to your J. R. Cook, AR Ben Lane, AR Sidney Moon, LA Raymond Richard, OR Brion Tomberlin, OK Ozark Knifemakers
business. Gary Crowder, OK David Lemoine, AR Gary Mulkey, MO Ralph Richards, AR Pete Truncali, TX Paul Long Custom Leather
Jim Crowell, AR Ken Linton, TX Keith Murr, AR Ron Richerson, KY Thomas Upton, AR Pop Knife Supplies
Steve Culver, KS David Lisch, WA Mark Nevling, IL Dennis Riley, AR Terry Vandeventer, MS Riverside Machine
Jesse W. Davis, MS John Lloyd, MO Allen Newberry, AR Kyle Royer, MO Gary Wheeler, TN Rowes Leather
Bill Duff, OK Larry-Gail Lunn, AR Ron Newton, AR Michael Ruth, Jr., TX John White, FL Charles Turnage
SIGN UP TODAY! Fred Durio, LA Tad Lynch, AR
Lee-Linda Ferguson, AR Bill Lyons, NE
Cliff Parker, FL
Logan Pearce, AR
Mike Ruth, TX
Lyle Schow, MO
Mike Williams, OK
Joel Worley, OK
Chuck Ward Photography
Wood Lab
Call Dealer Sales at (239)280-2380
or email dealers@beckett.com David Etchieson 501.554.2582 aka@alliancecable.net www.arkansasknifemakers.com
KI_1211_79 9/27/12 10:00 AM Page 79
LEE'S CUTLERY
Specializing in:
Custom Knives, Anza Handmade Knives,
Chris Reeve (Authorized Dealer), Microtech,
Collectible Knives, Military Knives,
Great Eastern Cutlery, Randall Knives,
Protech, Newt Livesay Knives,
Sticks & Canes.
BUY-SELL-TRADE
www. leescutlery.com
888-340-0318
VoiceMail
or 480-225-6897
KI-1211-SHOW1.qxp 9/25/12 7:02 AM Page 80
UPCOMING KNIFE SHOWS

The shows listed here are knife shows and should not be confused with gun and knife shows, at which a
show promoter may have thrown in the and knife in hopes of luring a couple more tables of knife dealers.
Show locations and dates do change for a variety of reasons, so we recommend contacting the show managers
to confirm the date and location before traveling. If you are producing a knife show,
please let us know at bvoyles@beckett.com.
OCTOBER 19-21, 2012 JANUARY 4-5, 2013

Cambridge, OH Helsinki, Finland
Ohio Classic Knife Show 4th Annual Helsinki Knife
Pritchard-Laughlin Civic Center Show
info@ohioknifeshow.com Scandic Marski hotel
www.ohioknifeshow.com info@helsinkiknifeshow.com
740.219.1141 www.helsinkiknifeshow.com
OCTOBER 26-28, JANUARY 18-20, 2013

2012 Las Vegas, NV
Shepardsville, KY Las Vegas Invitational
Kentucky Knife Collectors Riviera Hotel & Casino
Association www.antiquearmsshow.com
Paroquet Springs Conference 706.202.4489
Centre
www.kentuckycutlery.com JANUARY 26-27, 2013
kca@insightbb.com NOVEMBER 10-11- NOVEMBER 24-25, ST. LOUIS, MO
2012 2012 Gateway Area Knife Club Cut-
NOVEMBER 3-4, 2012 Boise, ID Milan, Italy lery Fair
Mt. Vernon, IL Rocky Mountain Knife Show Corporazione Italiana Carpenters Hall
Mt. Vernon Knife Show The Expo Idaho Coltellanai Show Choakes10@yahoo.com
Roland Lewis Community www.rockymountainknifeshow. Marriott Hotel via Washington 636.537.2975
Center com www.corporazioneitalianacoltel
Jcckc1982@yahoo.com 208.447.7000 liani.com FEBRUARY 16-17,
618.242.4514 2013
NOVEMBER 11, 2012 Little Rock, AR
NOVEMBER 9-12, Marlboro, MA DECEMBER 7-8, 2012 Arkansas Custom Knife Show
2012 NCCA Show Sevierville, TN Robinson Center Exhibit Hall
Gembloux, Belgium Holiday Inn Parkers Greatest Knife Show www.arkansasknifemakers.com
13th Belgian Knife Society 978.544.5348 on Earth aka@alliancecable.net
Show Sevier Events Center at Bridge-
Community Hall Gembloux *CANCELED DUE TO LACK OF INTEREST mont MARCH 8-10, 2013
Bksgemloux.blogspot.com NOVEMBER 16-18, www.bulldogknives.org Pasadena, CA
2012 423.892.0448 Southern California Blades
NOVEMBER 10-11, Louisville, KY Knife Expo
2012 The S.H.A.R.P. Show DECEMBER 8, 2012 Pasadena Convention Center
Tulsa, OK (Incorporating the former NKCA EUGENE, OREGON Knifeexpo2012@att.net
Wanenmachers Tulsa Arms show) Oregon Winter Knife Show www.knifeexpo.net
Show Fern Valley Hotel Lane County Convention Center
Tulsa Fairgrounds Expo Center www.spiritofsteel.com www.oregonknifeclub.org March 22-24, 2013
www.tuslaarmsshow.com spiritofsteel@ymail.com Janesville, WI
918.492.0401 423.238.6753 DECEMBER 9, 2012 Badger Knife Show
Timonium, MD Holiday Inn Express/Janesville
NOVEMBER 16-18, Chesapeake Knife Show Conference Center
2012 Crowne Plaza Timonium www.badgerknifeclub.org
Jersey City, NJ 410.252.7373 rschrap@aol.com
New York Custom Knife Show 414.479.9765
Westin-Jersey City Newport
www.nyckshow.com
417.866.6688
KI

KI-1211-LAW.qxp 9/25/12 7:03 AM Page 81
Your Knife Rights
News By The Numbers
3
Three states
2548
currently have
knife legislation
pending, but
are in recess
(Pennsylvania,
Michigan and
New York). Pennsylvania bill HB 2548 is currently in the
House Judiciary Committee. HB 2548 would
remove all knife restrictions in the state.
55
Michigan bill HB 55, which
would remove all switch-
blade prohibitions and
reduce fixed-blade restric-
tions in the Wolverine State
remains in committee.
3 1/
2
A young Colorado Eagle Scout
mistakenly brought a knife to
school in his backpack after he
had been on a camping trip
1
the previous spring and had
Exciting efforts are being made
forgotten that the knife was in
to clarify New York knife laws,
the backpack. He was charged
which are in process. We ex-
with having a weapon. The
pect new developments soon.
American Knife & Tool Institute
(Bruce Voyles, your Editor, is
worked with his public de-
slated to be one of the expert
fender. After consulting the
witnesses in one major case).
AKTI knife measuring protocol,
police agreed that the knife
was less than 3.5 inches, and
all charges were dropped.
7/11
This past July 11, Missouri Governor
Jay Nixon signed SB 489, repealing
the ban on the possession, sale and
manufacture of switchblade knives
in Missouri as long as it is not in vi- (Sources: American Knife & Tool
olation of federal law. Institute, Knife Rights) KI
knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED NOVEEMBER 2012 8 1

KI-1211-EDGE.qxp 9/25/12 7:03 AM Page 82
On The Edge
KNIFE KINDNESS
Kindness extended for no special reason other than the value
of friendship, itself, is among the most important gifts I have
received throughout my years in the knife business.
By J. Bruce Voyles
ADOPTED BY THE MORANS had already discovered the short memories and the what-have-
On my induction into the American Bladesmith Societys Cutlery you-done-for-me-lately mentality. I was different, or so I thought.
Hall of Fame, Margret and Bill Moran were with us at the pre-cere- Those who had professed friendship had a chance to now prove
mony reception. it. Of all my good friends I thought I had within the knife commu-
Are your parents here? Margret asked. nitythe ones who would still sit with us in a hotel lobby after a
When I told her that my parents were unable to attend, she knife show or would invite us to dinner from time to timedwin-
looked over at Bill, then at me, and said, dled to a solitary half-dozen or so. I didnt
as Bill nodded, Well, we will be your count Bob Neal in that friend circle until
parents today. after I discovered that my fair-weather
While the Hall of Fame induction was Consider the friends had departed. He stuck. His pass-
indeed an honor, the bragging rights of ing in a motorcycle accident made that all
being adopted by Margret and Bill Moran,
kindnesses that the more painful.
even if for a single day, is one of my fa- have been gifted
vorite moments. They had been on my list STRANDED IN COSTA RICA
of favorite people for many years prior to youand how I was along as a photographer to docu-
and remain so in my memory today.
you can pass ment a Costa Rican fishing trip prize
awarded in a giveaway by Atlanta Cut-
HUNTING BONDS them along. lery. And we were stranded. A delay in
George Herron is another on my kind- car rental and running off the road into
ness list. He is best known in knives for the jungle earlier meant we could not
being the Knifemakers Guild president, as well as for the countless continue to our lodge, because the ferry had stopped running and
knifemakers he helped and encouraged. I knew him better as a the lodge owners had turned off their radio telephone.
friend who included me in what turned out to be an annual deer Five of us in a Toyota minivan searched for hours for a roomto
hunt in the South Carolina low county that, over the years, would no availuntil a gift shop clerk whose phone we were using told
include Ken Warner, Tommy Lee, William Gordon Defreest, Joe us, I have a friend, an old lady who lives alone, who might let you
Mangiaracina and Dave Petzel of Field & Stream. stay in her big house as a favor to me.
One day before we left for the stands, George and I spent awhile Within the hour, we were the guests of an elegant, older lady
alone on the porch of the lodge, talking about everything except whose house had four twin beds in the guest room, as well as a 6-
knives. inch-thick foam pad on top of one of them. We were the recipients
When we finished he said, Im glad we have had the time to of yet another unexpected kindness. Such kindness was extended
get to know each otherapart from knives. many more times before we left lovely Costa Rica.
Hunting together tends to make such bonds.
PAYING FORWARD
FRIENDS VERSUS [REAL] FRIENDS Of course, having been the recipient of such kindness, there is
In my knife-writing career, there was a five-year period during the obligation to pay it forward and pass that kindness along. The
which I no longer had the ability to promote and publicize knife- difficulty in doing that makes me realize even more how great a
makers as I waited out a non-compete clause. I had been told to gift those kindnesses extended to me have been.
expect the slamming the door that had previously been held open The crux of this column is not about me, though. Consider the
by beckoning knifemakers offering friendship, drinks, dinners, kindnesses that have been gifted to youand how you can pass
shop tour invitations and even one maker who wanted me to come them along. Im not sure how far such things go toward making the
ride motorcycles with him. world a better place, but if enough of us do itone person, one
I scoffed at that advice from Ken Warner and Jim Weyer, who kindness at a timeit couldnt hurt. KI
82 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED OCTOBER 2012 knivesillustrated.com

KI_1211_C3 9/25/12 3:40 AM Page C3
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KI-1211-COVER.

qxp 10/1/12 1:01 AM Page C1

NOVEMBER 2012 DISPLAY UNTIL: 01/15/13

U.S.A. MADE PRO

Our J2308 440C satin nish blade shown above is completed

Pattern 23 blades are cryogenically processed during heat

Pattern 44 Blades Pattern 45 Blades

Black Ink Walnut Dymondwood

Pattern 31 at ground blades are cryogenically processed during

wood Black Ink Cocobolo Dymondwood

20 What Makes A Good Tactical Knife?

28 Double Up! Only Two Makers

36 Mean And Pretty

62 Transcending Traditional Knives

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Unparalleled, Unprecedented and Unleashed

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Shear Sharpening Knife Sharpening Suction Bottom

CUSTOMER SERVICE 44 Quiz: Test Your Knife IQ

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR, NEW PRODUCTS OR

BECKETT MEDIA, LLC

Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608 On The Cover: Columbia

6 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED NOVEMBER 2012 knivesillustrated.com

Q: I have a tobacco tin

fulfilling the orders. version and one with a starburst on the

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Who Will Be The Next Winner?

Two Knives for

Im a huge fan of his work.

Ive had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Jerry

The combination of blade curves and

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Gerber Outdoor Edge Cutlery Corp.

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