Knives Illustrated

Transcription

Knives Illustrated

KI-1408-COVER CX2 5/13/14 3:34 AM Page US_C1
knivesillustrated.com
JULY/AUGUST 2014 • VOLUME 28, NO. 4
$5.99 U.S. • DISPLAY UNTIL: 7/29/14
08
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71658 03124
1
Engaged Media By Beckett
KI_1408_C2 5/5/14 3:55 AM Page C2
KI_1408_3 5/5/14 4:00 AM Page 3
MADE BY AMERICAN HANDS
FOR YOUR HANDS
Bear Song TM IV
T-6 Aircraft Aluminum Handles
14C28N Stainless Steel Blade
Blade rides on Bronze Phosporus Washers
All New
B-450-ALBD-S
Available in
2 sizes & 3 Colors
B-450-ALCF-S
B-400-ALCF-S
B-400-ALBD-S
B-450-ALPD-S
B-400-ALPD-S
KI-1408-4-6-TOC CX2 5/13/14 3:31 AM Page 4
JULY/AUGUST 2014
VOLUME 28, NO. 4
www.knivesillustrated.com
COVER STORY
18 Worth Their Salt
36
Completely impervious to rust and corrosion,
H-1 steel makes Spyderco’s Salt series knives
dependable under even the harshest
conditions.
BY DAVE SPAULDING
TACTICAL
30 Not Your Granddad’s Folder
Southern Grind’s Bad Monkey is a tactical
design you’ll recognize, but with hot new addons, including the Emerson Wave feature.
BY JIM WEISS AND MICKEY DAVIS
36 Everyday Warriors
CRKT proves tactical knives aren’t only for
tactical professionals with the Liong Mah #5,
Hammond FE9 and Tighe Dye.
BY CLINT THOMPSON
44 Defensive Utility
Certain to impress tactical and custom-knife
enthusiasts alike, Jason Brous’ knives embody
artful simplicity and excellent functionality.
56
BY TIM STETZER
CUSTOM
60 Wild Blades From The Wild West
Levi Graham’s knives are fit for a frontiersman.
BY BETHANY MILLER
64 Precision Craftsmanship
Brian Nadeau brings a personal, artistic touch
to CNC-machined knives.
26
BY LES ROBERTSON
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED (ISSN 0898-8943) Vol. 28, No. 4 is published 7 times a year, January/February, March/April, May/June,
July/August, September/ October, November and December, by
Beckett Media, LLC, 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, #200, Yorba
Linda, CA 92887. Periodical postage paid at Anaheim, CA, and
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changes to Knives Illustrated c/o Beckett Media, 4635 McEwen
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ON N6C 6B2 GST#855050365RT001 © 2014 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 • JULY/AUGUST 2014
KI_1408_5 5/5/14 4:03 AM Page 5
SANTI
D2 - MSRP: $121
AUS-8 - MSRP: $104
Multi-National Designs, Made in Russia
Kizlyar Supreme utilizes the highest tech processes and materials available today to produce superior performance knives.
They are backed by a multinational team of talented designers
and engineers from Russia, Germany, Australia and Japan.
See the full line of high-quality knives at http://casiberia.com.
BIKER Z
DELTA
VENDETTA
http://casiberia.com | (800) 635-9366
KI-1408-4-6-TOC CX2 5/13/14 3:31 AM Page 6
82
JULY/AUGUST 2014
Volume 28 • Number 4
EDITORIAL
Editorial Director: Doug Jeffrey
Editor: Bethany Miller
Managing Editor: Jeffrey Rick
Art Director: Ronald Abella
Creative Director: Eric Knagg
CONTRIBUTORS
Mickey Davis, Abe Elias, Craig Hodgkins, Les Robertson,
Dave Spaulding, Tim Stetzer, Clint Thompson, Jim Weiss
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KNIVES ILLUSTRATED (ISSN 0898-8943) Vol. 28, No. 4 is published 7 times
a year, January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October,
November and December, by Beckett Media, LLC, 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway,
#200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887. Periodical postage paid at Anaheim, CA, and
additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Knives
Illustrated c/o Beckett Media, 4635 McEwen Road, Dallas, TX 75244.
Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: PITNEY BOWES, INC,
P.O. Box 25542, London, ON N6C 6B2 GST#855050365RT001 © 2014 by
Beckett Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from
this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Beckett Media, LLC
4635 McEwen Road, Dallas, TX 75244
Subscriptions, Address Changes,
Renewals, Missing or Damaged Copies
(800) 764-6278
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Bethany Miller
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bmiller@beckett.com
ODDS AND ENDS
12 On File
Every knifemaker needs these
tools; here’s why, and where to
find them.
BY ABE ELIAS
72 From the Inside Out
Come with us on our behind-thescenes tour of Benchmade to see
how their knives come to be.
BY CRAIG HODGKINS
COLUMNS
10 On the Edge
Guess the Maker, upcoming events,
and the latest happenings within
the knife world.
26 Behind the Scenes
How KRUDO Knives incorporates
martial arts concepts into
knifemaking craftsmanship.
52 Bells and Whistles
Our top 10 accessories for the knife
user on a budget.
Cover photography by
TERRILL HOFFMAN
56 In the Spotlight
Six impressive
custom knives
82 Show and Tell
A reader’s favorite knife
from Queen Cutlery.
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30
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6 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • JULY/AUGUST 2014
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KI-1408-8-EDIT 5/5/14 11:26 PM Page 8
EDITOR’S
LETTER
A Blade for
Every Purpose
gun may be an excellent weapon, but it has no practicality for
everyday use. A hammer may be great for routine chores, but
won’t go far in the event of an emergency. Knives, however, can
do all of this and more, and that’s exactly what we love about them,
and what we hope to celebrate in this issue.
A
For the servicemen and women who
are our national and local heroes, we
focused on a number of tactical knives
that can perform heroically. There’s
Southern Grind’s Bad Monkey folder with
its lightning-fast Emerson folding mechanism, perfect for those who must act
boldly when every second counts. For
ultimate reliability, we considered the T4
flipper, made by Jason Brous, which is
tested 25,000 times (yep, you read that
correctly) before hitting the market.
But if tactical isn’t your taste, never
fear; we didn’t stop there. As always,
we’re striving to show you the best knives
for every task. Take Spyderco’s Salt
series, for example, which offer ultimate
weather resistance. If you work near saltwater or in extreme humidity, these tough
folders and fixed-blades alike promise to
be faithful companions.
We have a few new features in store
for this issue, too. We’re sure hobbyist
knifemakers will appreciate our look at
the usefulness of files; that collectors will
feel well-informed by our tips on dealing
with a custom order gone wrong; and
that any knife lover will enjoy our exclusive look at the inner workings of Benchmade’s factory.
So as you read through the pages of
this issue, we hope you’ll appreciate
afresh the diversity of ways and means to
which knives lend themselves—the real
beauty of a blade! KI
—Bethany Miller
PHOTO BY JIM COOPER
KNIFE BY GUSTAVO CECCHINI
8 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • JULY-AUGUST 2014
“BUT IF TACTICAL
ISN’T YOUR TASTE,
NEVER FEAR; WE
DIDN’T STOP
THERE. AS ALWAYS,
WE’RE STRIVING TO
SHOW YOU THE
BEST KNIVES FOR
EVERY TASK.”
KI_1408_9 5/6/14 11:15 PM Page 9
KI-1408-10-11-NEWS 5/5/14 11:44 PM Page 10
POINTSof
INTEREST
THE LATEST GOINGS-ON
IN THE KNIFE WORLD
Name the Maker
SCORE A CHANCE TO WIN A SUBSCRIPTION BY
CORRECTLY IDENTIFYING THE MAKER OF THIS BLADE
PHOTO BY CHUCK WARD
We congratulate Knives
Illustrated reader
Gregory Hallen, who
correctly identified
David “Kinzan” Goldberg
as the maker of the
knife featured in our
March/April issue.
Tennessee
Switchblade
Laws
Repealed
Effective July 1, 2014, in Tennessee, just
about anything goes.
Following lobbying efforts by nonprofit
organization Knife Rights (with support
from Smoky Mountain Knife Works and
Taylor Brands), in April Governor Bill
Haslam signed into law a measure
repealing an “antiquated” ban on switchblades and knives with blades longer than
4 inches. Also after July 1, no new knife
bans may be imposed.
Knife Rights had previously helped pass
a law in Tennessee prohibiting local
governments from imposing limitations
stricter than those at the state level.
FOR MORE INFO ON…
Benchmade’s Custom Knife Maker program:
• www.customknife.benchmade.com
Knife Rights and current legislation:
• www.kniferights.org
VMatter Knives:
• www.vmatter.com
HINT: The maker of this knife and matching jewelry has been in the business for almost 50 years.
Based in Oklahoma, on many of his folders he uses a unique pivot system he designed himself. He’s
a member of a number of knife organizations, including the Knifemaker’s Guild.
HOW TO WIN
If you correctly identify the maker of the featured knife, you will be entered into a drawing for a
free one-year subscription to Knives Illustrated. If you’re already a subscriber, you may choose to
extend your current subscription or to receive a subscription to one of our sister magazines, Gun
World or Bow & Arrow Hunting.
All entries must be received by 4 p.m. PST on July 23.
Winners are determined by placing entries in numerical order and generating a random number
using www.random.org.
Please submit guesses to bmiller@beckett.com and specify your preferred prize option. Please
also include the mailing address where you would like to receive your subscription should you win.
1 0 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • JULY-AUGUST 2014
Benchmade
Introduces
“Custom
Knife
Maker”
Program
KI-1408-10-11-NEWS.CX 5/8/14 11:21 PM Page 11
For
Chefs:
The Knife
That
Doesn’t
Dull
Here’s one for lovers
of culinary knives: A
chef’s knife so
durable it essentially
won’t dull. VMatter’s
knives are injection
molded from a
vitreous metallic
alloy that, according to the
company’s website, “combines
the best properties of steel and
ceramic.”
Five lengths and styles are
available, each with a number of
handle options. The ultra-sharp
blades are antibacterial, and as
an added bonus, most models
are even dishwasher safe.
Prices range between $150
and $400.
e
UPCOMING EVENTS
Dates and locations subject to change; please contact
the show managers before arranging your travel.
ONGOING THROUGH JUNE 22
LITTLE ROCK, AR
A Sure Defense: The Bowie Knife in America
(501) 324-9351
www.historicarkansas.org/whatsnew
JUNE 20-22
SEVIERVILLE, TN
ABS Youth Hammer-In
(865) 397-0053
choustonprice@att.net
www.americanbladesmith.com
JULY 11-13
AUBURN, ME
ABS New England Hammer-In
(888) 753-7502
dglaser@newenglandschoolofmetalwork.com
JULY 11-13
BELLEVILLE, IL
Belleville Knife Expo
(618) 658-8221
bvilleknife@yahoo.com
JULY 31- AUG. 3
LOUISVILLE, KY
Knifemakers’ Guild Show
(502) 585-3200
www.knifemakersguild.com
AUG. 15-17
DENVER, CO
Denver Custom Knife Show
(785) 820-6928
jimmagee@cox.net
www.proknifemakers.com
AUG. 16-17
TORONTO, ONTARIO
Canadian Knifemakers Guild Show
www.canadianknifemakersguild.com
AUG. 22-24
TROY, OH
Mid-America Bladesmithing Symposium
(419) 832-5801
sheelyblades@gmail.com
SEPT. 13-14
WINSTON-SALEM, NC
Southeastern Custom Knife Show
www.southeasterncustomknifeshow.com
OCT. 3-4
WAUWASOTA, WI
Northern Lakes Knife Company Annual Fall Knife
Show
(414) 771-6472
rschrap@aol.com
OCT. 4-5
TOPEKA, KS
Heartland Bladesmithing Symposium
(785) 484-0146
sculver@americanbladesmith.com
OCT. 11-12
GARDEN GROVE, CA
California Custom Knife Show
www.californiacustomknifeshow.com
OCT. 18-19
CLYDE, NC
ABS Smoky Mountain Fall Hammer-In
(828) 266-2551
wncbill@bellsouth.net
OCT. 24-26
TULARE, CA
California Hammer-In
(559) 636-0501
mike@mvknives.com
NOV. 21-23
JERSEY CITY, NJ
New York Custom Knife Show
(417) 866-6688
www.fiftyfiftyproductions.net
JAN. 23-25, 2015
LAS VEGAS, NV
SHOT Show
(855) 355-7468
www.shotshow.org
JAN. 24
LAS VEGAS, NV
Tactical Knife Invitational
(417) 866-6688
www.fiftyfiftyproductions.net
KI
If you’ve ever wanted a
knife built just the way you
want it, but can’t afford to
commission a fully custom
knife, Benchmade offers the
next best thing with their
Custom Knife Maker program.
Online, users can choose
from a variety of models and
select a blade, handle, colors,
engraving, clip and other
components according to
their own preferences.
The base prices for all
knives are under $200, and
delivery time is only 10
business days from the date
the knife is designed.
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • JULY-AUGUST 2014 1 1
KI-1408-12-16-JANTZ.CX 5/8/14 11:22 PM Page 12
ON FILE
HOW THESE SIMPLE TOOLS ARE
MORE VERSATILE THAN YOU THINK
STORY AND PHOTOS BY ABE ELIAS
hat’s the most indispensable tool in a
knifemaker’s workshop? One of the strongest
candidates may actually be one of the
most basic.
W
The lowly file is a surprisingly amazing tool. While they’re
low-tech, they have so many uses. Just ask any old-timer tool-anddie guy, and you’ll hear about how he started his training with a file.
As CNC machines become more prevalent in knifemaking, the
art of filing is being forgotten. But some of us staunchly favor doing
things the old-fashioned way. I personally hand-make my knives,
and draw a certain pleasure from knowing that it was my own
hands that shaped the steel. I can use a file for anything from
forming the bevel of a knife to actually serving as the base stock
for the knife itself.
For other like-minded knifemakers who prefer traditional
technique, Jantz Supply is a great source for stocking up on these
useful tools. Here are some of my favorites, and tips for getting the
best use out of them.
“I CAN USE A FILE FOR
ANYTHING FROM FORMING THE
BEVEL OF A KNIFE TO ACTUALLY
SERVING AS THE BASE STOCK
FOR THE KNIFE ITSELF.”
KI-1408-12-16-JANTZ 5/5/14 11:51 PM Page 13
From left to right: A set of diamond
needle files; Habilis hand-style,
one-cut file; 20-lines-per-inch
checkering file; 6-inch bastard-cut
mill file; 8-inch Magicut file; and
10-inch wood rasp.
KI-1408-12-16-JANTZ 5/5/14 11:51 PM Page 14
Nicholson Magicut
When I began making knives, I forged
them. I didn’t have a grinder, so I made my
first few knives by using a technique
called draw filing. A Nicholson Magicut
works great for draw filing a knife’s bevel.
To do this, first, forge your knife or cut
the blank out of a piece of annealed
stock. If you’re forging, you’ll have a head
start on the bevel since you have hammered one in. Remember to anneal it
properly and clean off any scale with a
stone or sandpaper since the scale will
clog the file.
On the forged knife, you just have to
follow the established bevel and clean it
up. On a full-stock knife, the act of draw
filing is a lot like using a drawknife: Put
the file on an edge or corner and slowly
draw the knife towards you while maintaining the same angle. It’s easier if—
rather than holding
the file at 90
CONTACT INFO
degrees from the
JANTZ
SUPPLY
work—you skew it
(800) 351-8900
a bit. This helps
jantz@jantzusa.com
the file cut withwww.knifemaking.com
out chatter.
Eventually, you will form a flat and then
you can start again by using the new edge
formed toward the spine of your blade.
After every draw, tap the file on the bench
(not the vise) to knock out chips so your
file doesn’t become clogged. If you tap it
on the vise you could easily break the file.
Once your bevel is formed, you can
start using paint sticks wrapped in wet
and dry sandpaper to refine the face of
the bevel.
Diamond Files
Those of us who don’t have a milling
machine can turn to files to finish our
guards, washers and pommels. Making
these pieces is not one of my favorite
activities, since it only takes one pass too
many to create a sloppy guard and it
seems to take forever to get through the
early phases of fitting.
To get that perfect fit, you must go
slowly and be very careful, especially if
The best technique for draw filing is to hold the file at an angle, then skew it while drawing to make the cut easier.
I use an 8- to 10-inch Magicut file to start, because they’re so aggressive.
I use the 20-lines-per-inch checkering file to add texture to the extended tang on my Northern Bush Craft Survival Tool.
KI-1408-12-16-JANTZ 5/5/14 11:51 PM Page 15
“A NICHOLSON MAGICUT
WORKS GREAT FOR DRAW
FILING A KNIFE’S BEVEL.”
you’re not used to doing a lot of guard
work. There are a number of ways that
people fit their guards; my technique is
simply to mark the center line on my
material and drill through the bolster with
a series of holes along my center line.
Next, I take a jeweler’s saw and cut out
the material between the holes. Once I
have done that, I take a set of diamond
files and slowly broaden the hole until it
starts to fit the tang. As I get closer, I will
check after every pass of the file, so that I
make sure to keep the fit extra tight.
I use a Jantz file guard to make sure my shoulders line up on my stick tangs. I also use a Habilis hand-style, one-cut
file. One of the edges of the file is blank, allowing you to get into corners without accidentally cutting into the side.
Specialty Files
Tool, I checkered the part I’ve nicknamed
the Sparrow’s Crown. This is an extended
The number of files available in any
tang that allows the user to do
catalogue is staggering, but
ABOUT
THE
a number of things like scrape
this just means there are plenty
AUTHOR
bowls or magnesium rods, or
of options for every task.
Abe
Elias
is
a
prolific
separate fibers for doing
One of the specialty files I
knife
reviewer
and
the
cordage. If I wanted, I could use
use is a checkering file. I use a
owner of Diving
the same file to give texturing
20 lines-per-inch Habilis checkSparrow Knife Works.
to any number of surfaces on
ering file to add checkering to a
For more information
the knife.
thumb rest. In the case of one
on his knives, visit
Another very useful sort of
of my most popular knives, the
www.dskw.ca.
file is the needle file, which
Northern Bush Craft Survival
After drilling and cutting holes and cutting out the material between holes with a jeweler’s saw, I use a small, flat
diamond file to open the hole for the tang. As I get closer, I check the tang more frequently to ensure a tight fit.
allows you to perform detailed work or
even cut your own serrations on a blade.
For the hobbyist knifemaker without
machinery, rifles and rasps come in handy
to shape handle material when you don’t
have a belt sander.
An Extra Edge
Filing is an excellent way to further your
knifemaking skills, and a helpful resource
I have turned to myself is a DVD produced
by Center Cross called “Fileworking with
Duane Dushane.” This DVD is a complete
instructional video on how to do various
file patterns on your knives.
You’re taken through a number of patterns and shown what can be done from
the spine of a knife to folder liners and
handles. You can employ a variety of files
A 10-inch, half-round bastard rasp makes quick work of
roughing out a wooden handle. If you don’t have a
sanding machine, you can use a rasp. You might even
find this tool useful for other jobs around the house.
KI-1408-12-16-JANTZ 5/5/14 11:51 PM Page 16
for this work,
KNOW YOUR FILES
from round
NICHOLSON MAGICUT
and triangular Best for: Draw filing
to a number of DIAMOND FILE
needle files for Best for: Fitting guards and
pommels
finer detail.
CHECKERING FILE
File work is
Best for: Creating texturing
not for everyNEEDLE FILE
one, but it’s a
Best for: Detail work
great way to
RASP
stretch your
Best for: Smoothing handles
legs, so to
speak, and try
something different. Taking the time to
work through the patterns and watch
them evolve from a group of measured
lines on steel is very satisfying. File work is
something you can’t rush. It can be a very
Zen-like experience as you are drawn into
the pattern with every pass of the file.
“THOSE OF US WHO HAVE NO
MILLING MACHINE CAN TURN
TO FILES TO FINISH OUR
GUARDS, WASHERS AND
POMMELS.”
An Affordable Solution
A wide variety of files are at your disposal for making an entire knife, from start
to finish. These tools are so essential and
versatile that their uses are almost
innumerable—and they won’t break the
bank. You might call them the poor man’s
milling machine, and with a diverse selection of files, you’ll be prepared to make
just about any knife you can imagine. KI
A close-up look at the checkering file and the Sparrow’s Crown. After each pass, it’s important to tap the file on the
bench to clear it or use a file card. A file card is a wire brush used to clean out chips from inside the tooth pattern.
You can see that I’m about due for a new file.
A good set of needle files allows you to do detailed jobs, such as cutting a thumbhole
in a folder blade or file work on the spine of a knife. Here, I’m using a half-round to
work out this rope pattern on a neck knife.
A close look at a Habilis hand-style, one-cut file. Notice that one edge has no cutting
teeth, which allows you to get into corners and bring down one surface without cutting
into another.
KI_1408_17 5/6/14 11:16 PM Page 17
KI-1408-18-24-SPYDERCO 5/5/14 11:56 PM Page 18
WORTH THEIR SALT
THE HARSHEST ELEMENTS ARE NO MATCH
FOR SPYDERCO’S RUSTPROOF SALT SERIES
T
STORY AND PHOTOS BY DAVE SPAULDING
hen it comes to
knives, you don’t
want a fair-weather
friend. You want a tool you
can depend on, rain or shine.
W
A lack of resistance to corrosion is a handicap for many otherwise excellent knives. Some steels, like 154CM or the 440 family,
are at the more resistant end of the spectrum, but others are
completely at the mercy of the elements, and under harsh conditions, a rusted blade is a danger you can’t afford.
KI-1408-18-24-SPYDERCO.CX 5/8/14 11:25 PM Page 20
Enter Spyderco with its new H-1 blades.
Saltwater, humidity and sweat, the
company promises, are no match for this
specially processed, exceptionally durable
steel type.
All-Weather Blades
At the 2014 SHOT Show, Spyderco’s
Joyce Laituri introduced me to the company’s Salt series. She described to me the
rustproof steel used on the Salt folders.
These H-1 steel knives are saltwaterfriendly, which is the basis for their name.
All Salt knives use H-1, a nitrogenbased blade alloy, rather than carbonbased. Because carbon reacts with salt,
eliminating carbon renders the steel 100percent rustproof. Like its carbon-steel
cousins, H-1 takes a hard, sharpened
cutting edge and earns high marks for
edge retention. While a rustproof blade is
essential for a waterborne knife, it is also
very nice to have for other uses as well.
Did I mention these knives do not rust?
Wanting to get a good look at the Salt
series, I asked Ms. Laituri to send me a
variety of lengths, configurations and grip
styles so I could test their effectiveness
for a variety of mission-specific uses.
IN A NUTSHELL
All of the knives I evaluated measured
between 7 and 8 inches in length, and 2 to 3
ounces in weight. The tactical or EDC user
may prefer the black handles, but for an
outdoorsman, an easily visible yellow
handle is an attractive option. Thanks to
large thumbholes and textured grips, the
Salt knives are easy to handle under any
condition.
A Closer Look
The test models included the C88PBK
Salt 1; C91PBBK and C91PBK Pacific Salt
(the same design, but the first has a
yellow handle, and the second, black);
C118YL Saver Salt; and the C106YL
Tasman Salt. These knives are cousins to
Spyderco’s Endura, Delica, Rescue and
Harpy models, respectively, but with the
rustproof H-1 blade. All these popular
models have lent themselves to tactical,
EDC and outdoor chores with great success over many years. Now, users can take
advantage of them in a variety of environments without fear of rust.
The Pacific Salt is designed to offer reliable high performance. Its blade is available in standard H-1 or with a black carbonitride coating (model C91BBK), which
The Salt Rescue and Tasman folders would be a good addition to any operator’s trauma kit, supplementing surgical shears or other cutting tools.
The Spyderco hole cut into each blade also acts as a guard against sliding on to the blade. The jimping helps keep the thumb locked in place when using a saber grip.
PACIFIC SALT
(C91PBBK YELLOW;
C91PBK BLACK)
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.6875 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.812 inches
CLOSED LENGTH: 4.875 inches
WEIGHT: 3 ounces
HANDLE MATERIAL: FRN
SALT SAVER (C118YL)
WEIGHT: 2.2 ounces
SALT TASMAN (C106YL)
CLOSED LENGTH: 4 inches
WEIGHT: 2 ounces
SALT 1 (C88PBK)
OVERALL LENGTH: 7 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3 inches
CLOSED LENGTH: 4 inches
WEIGHT: 2 ounces
Spyderco knives are very, very sharp from the factory, capable of rough-duty cutting chores. Whether plain edge or
serrated blade, one of the Salt series knives will meet your needs.
favored by seamen,
“SALTWATER, HUMIDITY been
first responders and outAND SWEAT … ARE NO doorsmen alike. Those
who must cut near or
MATCH FOR THIS
around flesh in an emerSPECIALLY HEATgency appreciate the
TREATED,
rounded tip of the ResEXCEPTIONALLY
cue folder. Meanwhile,
DURABLE STEEL TYPE.” the Saver is a modified
lessens the blade’s reflection. Hollow-ground,
the blade offers a plain
edge. It's similar in shape
and size to Spyderco's
Endura model, but has a
more rounded tip. Really,
all of the Salt blades
have a stronger, rounded
tip than their standard
counterparts—more on this later.
The Saver Salt has nothing to do with
value, but a lot to do with saving lives.
Spyderco's Rescue models have long
Rescue, made with the
non-rusting H1 steel. The oversized 14mm
round thumbhole, Spyderco’s trademark,
works well for opening and closing even in
gloved, cold or wet hands. Available in
DID YOU KNOW…?
While most users think the trademark
Spyderco hole is the primary means to open
the blade with the thumb, the blade can also
be opened using inertia. To do so, grip the
hole between the thumb and index finger
and “flip” the knife’s handle open with a
flick of the wrist. This technique can be used
as an alternative when the optimum grip
cannot be achieved on the knife’s handle.
black or marine yellow, the fiberglassreinforced nylon resin grip comes textured
with a waffle pattern. An ambidextrous
tip-up pocket clip also houses a lanyard
hole for a variety of carry possibilities.
The Tasman Salt folder features a
hawkbill blade and is based on Spyderco’s Harpy, a distinctive curved cutting
tool with a claw-like tip that originated in
the marine/commercial fishing industry.
Cutting in and around water involves cutting line, netting and rope. This is done
quickly, often at arm's length while pulling
downward or toward you—which I can
personally tell you needs to be done with
GREAT care! The blade's arched configuration holds what’s being cut against the
sharpened edge, keeping it from slipping
off the tip.
Like all of the knives in the Spyderco's
Salt series, this hawkbill blade is made
with state-of-the-art non-rusting H-1
steel and is available with a plain edge or
SpyderEdge serrations. The molded fiberglass-reinforced nylon handle, offered in
black or visible marine yellow, features a
textured volcano grip pattern. Like its Salt
cousins, the Tasman is equipped with a
reversible left/right hand titanium pocket
clip (also non-rusting) that positions the
folder tip-up in the pocket. All knives in
the Salt line have internal steel parts that
are treated to make them impervious to
rust and pitting.
One of Spyderco's top sellers is the
Delica. I have carried this knife for many
years while working in law enforcement
and have long felt it was a small knife
“ALL SALT KNIVES USE H-1, A
NITROGEN-BASED BLADE
ALLOY, RATHER THAN
CARBON-BASED.”
The David Boye indent on the lock lever keeps the hand from unlocking the blade when held tightly.
stronger tip. David Boye's
with the feel of a big knife.
CONTACT INFO
locking lever dent is a
Users gravitate to it for its senstandard feature that keeps
sible size, versatile shape and
the lock from accidentally
proven durability. Making a
820 Spyderco Way
opening if the handle is
version with the rustproof H-1
Golden, CO 80403
gripped tightly.
steel is a no-brainer, and
(303) 279-8383
www.spyderco.com
Finally, like other knives in
Spyderco did just that, with a
the Salt line, a matching black
couple of modifications. The
titanium pocket clip is included for posiresulting Salt 1 (C88PBK) has a more
tioning the folded knife for left/right tiprounded tip that's thicker at the point.
up portability. Tip-up or tip-down carry is
Rounding the tip better meets the
controversial in the knife world, much like
requirements of cutting chores associated
9mm vs. .45 in the gun world, but I have
with boating, fishing and other outdoor
found that I can carry either way with a bit
activities while also making it less prone
of practice. And isn’t practice a requireto breakage. I have broken off the tip of
ment of anything useful? A hole running
many knives over the years and have
through the hollow clip screw makes a
never been satisfied with my attempts to
lanyard pipe for stringing through a thong
“re-curve” the blade, so I like the idea of a
SPYDERCO
All of the Salt series knives are equipped with a rustproof, black-coated tip-up pocket clip.
The rust resistance of the H1 steel was tested by leaving the Tasman in …the knife was then removed and folded wet and sat on a shelf to see what would happen. In the end,
a salt bath for several days to see if rust would develop…
the knife looked the same as it did when the test started.
or cord when using the knife around water, hiking up trails, climbing mountains,
parachuting or riding in a helicopter—
basically any high-risk mission around
the globe.
Put to the Test
While the Salt series certainly appears
to have all the goods for a wide variety of
missions, the only way to know if they are
worth our hard-earned money is to “carry,
deploy and cut,” as it were. I devised a series of tests for the various Salt knives
and their unique blade designs, most of
which are based on my tactical background. I had to cut seatbelts more than a
few times during my police career, so being able to not only cut seat belt material,
but being able to cut someone out of a
seat belt is important. For this test, I used
a 3-D target mannequin that I strapped
into a junk car. After making my initial cut,
I had to “repair” the seat belt by stitching
it up with fishing line and then cutting the
belt in another location. This actually
worked quite well and I was able to test
all of the knives quickly.
The textured volcano grip pattern is designed to allow the hand’s skin or material of a glove to fill the indents, a gripping method just the opposite of checkering but just as
effective.
As stated earlier, cutting near flesh is
hazardous (in cases such as seat belt removal or trauma care) and needs to be
undertaken with due diligence. In this particular application, the curved Tasman
with its hawkbill blade is a real asset! In
addition, seat belts are very tough material and require either a very sharp straight
edge blade or serrations to saw through.
When trying to saw through a seat belt,
especially one in the close confines of
human flesh, a curved blade really helps,
since within the close confines of a
crashed vehicle, pulling the seatbelt away
from a victim’s body may not be possible.
Other tests included cutting rope, nylon
cord, leather strapping and shaving small
hunks of wood. Each blade configuration
offered advantages for specific cutting
chores, which is the reason for a series of
waterproof knives instead of just a model
or two. In the end, the user must look at
their “real world of work” and decide
which blade will best serve their needs.
For my last evaluation, and perhaps the
most important one, I put to the test Spyderco’s insistence that H-1 is rustproof. I
filled a small bin with water, added water
softener salt, added one of the knives and
ALL ABOUT H-1
An excerpt from Spyderco promotional
materials explains the process of creating a
rustproof steel:
The author subjected the Salt knives to a series of cutting tests, including cutting through a seatbelt. Every material
tested was no match for the aggressive blades.
“ALL OF THE SALT BLADES
HAVE A STRONGER, ROUNDED
TIP THAN THEIR STANDARD
COUNTERPARTS.”
let it sit for several days. I then pulled
each knife from the water, folded it up
and sat all of them on a shelf to see what
would develop. In a nutshell, the knives
looked the same when they finished the
test as they did when they started. While
this may not have been the most strictly
scientific test, it was proof enough to me
that H-1 will, indeed, stand up to saltwater
and rust.
A Worthy Investment
Undoubtedly, with the Salt series Spyderco has produced an excellent line of
tools that will be valuable assets for any
purpose, from tactical to everyday to the
outdoors. The only problem an interested
buyer may face is narrowing down his or
her options! KI
“Rust occurs when the carbon in steel reacts
with chloride [aka salt]. To avoid this, H-1
uses 0.10% nitrogen instead of carbon to give
the materials its steel-like qualities. Nitrogen
does not react with chloride, making H-1
blades completely impervious to rust, even
when submerged in saltwater for extended
periods of time.
“H-1 is also unique because it is an austenitic
steel. Traditional austenitic steels use a heattreating process to harden and temper them
to be serviceable knife blades. H-1, however,
‘work hardens’ through the mechanical
processes of shaping and grinding the steel.
The areas ‘worked’ the most—like bevels and
Cutting Edges—become the hardest. The
areas worked less remain softer and tougher.
The end result is a blade with differential
hardness that provides an exceptional
balance of strength, flexibility and cutting
performance…"
The curved blade of the Tasman is a great choice for removing oneself from a stuck seat belt. The curved blade
proved to be a good choice for a number of other cutting chores as well.
KI_1408_25 5/5/14 4:15 AM Page 25
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KI-1408-26-29-QA 5/6/14 12:01 AM Page 26
BEHINDthe
SCENES
The (Martial) Art
of Knifemaking
HOW KRUDO’S FOUNDER TURNED A PASSION
FOR SELF-DEFENSE INTO A FLOURISHING
KNIFE BUSINESS
STORY BY BETHANY MILLER
PHOTOS COURTESY OF KRUDO KNIVES
This month, we spoke with Louis Krudo, founder of KRUDO
Knives.
What was your background before founding KRUDO Knives
and, earlier, its flagship company, SNAG Knives and Controllers?
Before KRUDO came to fruition, I was in the medical field. On
the side, I trained in martial arts and taught self-defense.
I gained my passion for knives and edged tools at age five by
watching my cousin build knives from scratch. He did it all by
hand; the only power tool was his buffing wheel and an acetylene
torch for heat treating.
Twenty years ago, in my Sarasota, Florida, garage, I had an idea
for a folder. I drew it and showed it to a friend, who quickly told
me it was a lawsuit waiting to happen. But three years later, I
decided to create a prototype.
Because I knew nothing myself about building knives, I took my
design to a custom maker. After
learning I’d thought of this design
ABOUT THE
three years earlier, he asked what
INTERVIEWEE
took me so long to have it built,
NAME: Louis Krudo
and showed me a magazine with a
TITLE: Owner/designer
knife on the cover in almost the
EMPLOYED FOR: Eight years
same design. I’d waited too long!
KI-1408-26-29-QA 5/6/14 12:02 AM Page 27
“THE RECOGNITION AND
ACCEPTANCE OF SNAG FOLDER
CONTROLLER INTO LAW
ENFORCEMENT IN THE U.S.
AND OVERSEAS HAS BEEN ONE
OF MY PROUDEST MOMENTS.”
SNAG Controller
and TATCHET Bag
—LOUIS KRUDO
KI-1408-26-29-QA 5/6/14 12:02 AM Page 28
“I’VE TAUGHT MYSELF HOW
TO GET INTO THE INDUSTRY
AS FAST AS POSSIBLE, WITH
MINIMAL MISTAKES AND
WITH KICK-ASS PRODUCTS.”
Silhouette
—LOUIS KRUDO
As I was driving home, I had an
epiphany. When I got home, I carved a
design out of wood, tested it (gently) on
one of my self-defense students, and the
SNAG Controller was born. The creation
of this tool, an edgeless design loosely
inspired by the karambit, was the beginning of my venture into knife design.
I started KRUDO Knives in 2006 and
made my debut at the 2010 Blade Show.
Near the end of that year, I made a profession-changing decision and devoted
myself to completely establishing KRUDO
as a company. Since then, I’ve created 27
new designs, plus five new fixed-blades
and three new folders that I introduced at
the Blade Show this year.
What products or achievements have
you been most proud of?
I’m proud of all my tools and new,
upcoming products, but the recognition
and acceptance of SNAG Folder Controller into law enforcement in the U.S.
and overseas has been one of my proudest moments.
I’m also proud of the continuing innovation of my designs. One of my newest
offerings is KTC54 OS, a Delrin and
aluminum iPhone case with a titanium K
Wedge tool that’s discreetly
carried in a slot on the back.
I’m adding a micro 32gigabyte USB drive to
the case, making it a
truly one-of-a-kind tool.
KRUDO Folder
The back can be custom
engraved upon request.
ing curve. I’ve taught
myself how to get into
the industry as fast as
IN BUSINESS SINCE: October 2010
What challenges have
possible, with minimal
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: 10
you faced in reaching
mistakes and with kickWEBSITE: www.olamiccutlery.com
your achievements,
ass products. This
PHONE: (408) 480-3533
both from both a
requires working up to 19
personal and a company standpoint?
hours a day, seven days a week.
From a personal standpoint, achieving
From a company’s point of view, the
these goals is a huge endeavor. I started
journey has been very time consuming,
KRUDO Knives with little knowledge
with large expenses. It’s challenging to
about the knife industry, so my greatest
orchestrate manufacturing schedules
challenge has been the very steep learnand to find responsible, dependable
ABOUT THE
COMPANY
KTC54 OS iPhone case
with K Wedge
KI-1408-26-29-QA 5/6/14 12:02 AM Page 29
KHatchet
WHAT EXACTLY IS SNAG?
The SNAG tool comes in two versions: one with a cutting edge, the other without.
The edgeless version, the Controller, is the original. The general shape is reminiscent of a
karambit knife, but because it’s designed to inflict pain without being lethal, its function is
substantially different. Plenty of jimping and excellent thumb support allow the user to hook,
grab and jerk an aggressor in any number of ways.
The edged Live Blade version, meanwhile, can be used much the same, but is much more
genuinely dangerous thanks to a partially serrated, fiercely sharp tip.
Sharp or not, you wouldn’t want to be on the receiving end of either of these tools… but if you
doubt the Controller’s effectiveness, Krudo is happy to demonstrate.
manufacturing companies for large-production runs.
What do you think makes your knives
unique?
My designs are heavily influenced by
my background in martial arts, and are
designed largely with self-defense in
mind. I design my tools to be used in
multiple ways, not just for cutting. This is
the basis for the SNAG Controller, for example, which has no blade edge at all, but
“WHEN I DESIGN A KNIFE,
BECAUSE OF MY SELFDEFENSE BACKGROUND, I’M
THINKING CLOSELY ABOUT
THE GRIP … AND ABOUT THE
BLADE.”
—LOUIS KRUDO
can still cause pain when used properly
for self-defense.
Another example is the KHatchet,
which I designed to be usable with the
sheath on, or with your grip near the head
of the axe, midway or at full length. In a
reverse grip, the butt end of the handle
can be used to hook or strike.
When I design a knife, because of my
self-defense background, I’m thinking
closely about the grip (Is it comfortable?
Is it meant to be used in standard or reverse grip, or both? What techniques will
make this easy to use?), and about the
blade (What is the best angle for cutting?
Can I hook the blade for control? What is
the best way to deploy the knife when it’s
in my hand, my pocket or on my belt?).
I create tools that are excellent for selfdefense, but also practical for everyday
life. I get many compliments from my
customers ranging from, “Wow, cool
design!” to “It feels great in my hand.”
Keep us on your radar, because there is
much more to come. KI
KI-1408-30-35-SOUTHERN 5/6/14 1:32 AM Page 30
NOT YOUR
GRANDDAD’S
FOLDER
STORY BY JIM WEISS
AND MICKEY DAVIS
PHOTOS BY P. J. RYAN
AND JIM WEISS
SOUTHERN GRIND UPDATES A CLASSIC TACTICAL
DESIGN WITH THE HOTTEST NEW FEATURES
SOMETIMES great things come from unexpected places.
Take Southern Grind Knives, for example,
a cutlery company founded by Grammywinning country singer Zac Brown. Based in
Georgia, Southern Grind proves that well
more than just good manners and a charming drawl come from the heart of Dixie.
Our team’s custom knifemaker, Paul
Granger, first encountered Southern Grind at
the 2013 Blade Show. He spoke with Brown,
traded some knives, and came away
impressed. And after thoroughly evaluating
Southern Grind’s Bad Monkey tactical folders—in both drop-point and tanto form—
we are all the more impressed by their blade
design, high quality, dependability and
excellent function.
A Custom Knife Maker's Review
Custom knifemaker Paul Granger
evaluated the drop-point version of the Bad
Monkey for its appearance, construction
and feel.
HANDLE: The Bad Monkey’s handle is a
tough twill weave with a matte finish. Its
carbon fiber scales create a beautiful visual
effect in the sun, appearing so threedimensional that it seems you can reach
right into the handle.
Country singer Zac Brown, founder of Southern Grind, shows off some of his knives.
KI-1408-30-35-SOUTHERN.CX 5/8/14 11:28 PM Page 32
“
ITS CARBON FIBER
SCALES … [APPEAR] SO
THREE-DIMENSIONAL THAT IT
SEEMS YOU CAN REACH RIGHT
INTO THE HANDLE.
”
The handle is designed with one deep
finger groove and one large curved
surface, which is a downward curve for
the knife user’s other three fingers.
Granger prefers this style. In fact, it’s the
way he prefers to make his own custom
knife handles. Other knives often are
made with either multiple finger grooves
or with the handle in a straight line.
As to the finger cutout, there’s effective
jimping (crosscut grooves) so the user
gets a good bit of drag on it. This jimping
is also cut into the handle’s liner and in
the guard area of the handle that extends
over the hook-shaped pocket catch.
There are three standoffs (spacers)
going through the Bad Monkey’s handle:
one at midpoint on the back of the handle
on top and the other two effectively
placed parallel to the handle’s butt. The
standoff on the butt, farthest from the
back of the handle, gives the knife much
more integrity and strength than just
having two standoffs, as is the case with
some folders. There’s also a convenient
thong hole at the handle’s butt between
the two standoffs.
BLADE: The Bad Monkey’s 14C-28N
blade is a conventional flat grind, ground
equally on both sides. The grind is
symmetrical—very clean work. This grind
work comes up above the tip of the
blade’s drop point, giving it a sharpened
edge above the blade’s tip, which makes
that tip excellent for puncturing.
Granger was extremely impressed by
both the grind and finish of the blade.
He believes the flats, or unground areas,
of this blade were likely finished in a
Southern Grind’s Bad Monkey tactical knife comes in two versions: one with a drop-point blade, the other as a
modified tanto.
ABOUT PAUL GRANGER
Paul Granger specializes in making fixed-blade knives of his own unique design, as well as in
traditional patterns. He has created a line of lightweight, non-metallic, non-ceramic knives currently
in use by the American and Canadian militaries, multiple police departments, and the FBI and CIA. His
website is www.palehorsefighters.blogspot.com.
rotating can tumbler with an abrasive
media yielding a look finer than (but
somewhat reminiscent of) the finish of
galvanized plumbing.
This type of knife is the fastest-deploying folding knife blade in the world. The
Emerson Wave feature—the hook-shaped
pocket catch just a bit above and forward
of the thumb stud—is what enables the
swift opening. Simply pull the knife out of
your pocket while dragging it toward the
rear of the pocket; by the time it’s clear of
the pocket, it’s open. It takes a little bit of
practice to get used to drawing the knife
using the Emerson Wave feature to effectively work the pocket catch, thereby
opening the blade.
The phosphor bronze bushings on each
side of the blade around the pivot point
are good because when this metal is
oiled, it can stay lubricated for a long time.
Granger also was very impressed with
the pocket clip at the butt end of the Bad
Monkey because it’s short and strong.
Normally, a knife pocket clip is half the
length of the handle, which draws atten-
GRANGER LIKES…
• The Bad Monkey’s easy, secure grip.
• The Emerson Wave feature, which allows the
knife to be deployed as it is withdrawn from
the user’s pocket.
• The discreet pocket clip.
The Emerson Wave
feature allows the
blade to be
unfolded as the user
draws the knife out
of his pocket.
“
EVEN AFTER
MONTHS OF
GENERAL USE AND
ABUSE OF THE
KNIFE, THE BAD
MONKEY’S
INTEGRITY WAS
STILL SOUND, WITH
NO LOOSENESS OR
RATTLING.
”
tion to the knife user’s pocket
and advertises that that
pocket is carrying a knife.
This pocket clip is only onethird the length of the knife.
Granger wore his Bad Monkey clipped to a thick,
leather-reinforced work
pants pocket. The clip did
not stretch out, meaning that
it had a great temper. He
bought some extra ones for
his custom-made knives.
Overall, Granger liked the
Southern Grind Bad Monkey
folder a great deal. It felt
good in the hand, and was
shaving sharp out of the box.
Law Enforcement
Specialist’s Field
Evaluation
The Southern Grind Bad
Monkey folder, with a modified tanto point, arrived at
the castle on a late summer’s
day. Its field evaluation was
one of our longest. Because a
folder is a normal carry blade
when you cannot get away
with a fixed blade, we decided to see exactly how it
rolled long term.
One of the interesting
features of the Monkey was
the short pocket clip. In the
past, I have lost two very nice
knives due to the pocket
Reviewer Paul Granger
appreciated the jimping on
the handle and liner.
AN IMPRESSIVE
STEEL
The knife’s blade steel,
14C-28N, is a newer,
rather high-grade knife
steel. Steel is iron with
various elements
added to it; in the case
of 14C-28N and
according to Sandvik
Materials Technology
literature, the added
elements are carbon
(0.62), silicon (0.2),
manganese (0.6),
phosphorus (0.025),
sulphur (0.010),
chromium (14.0), and
nitrogen (0.11).
Reviewer Paul Granger
tested the blade as
having a 58-59 HRC.
clips, one while crawling around on
a rooftop, the other when snorkeling. Some self-proclaimed aficionados would blanch at the thought of
swimming with a knife clipped to
them. They do not live or work in my
world.
The other feature I was curious
about was the liner lock. In the past,
I’ve had a very expensive and wellknown tactical folder’s liner lock fail,
and as a result, cause a great deal of
physical damage to my finger.
Knowing what I know now about
folders, regardless of how they are
marketed, they’re prone to lock failure, period. The least favorite of
mine are the liner lock designs, since
they can fail when the knife is used
aggressively, as you would do so in a
“tactical” situation.
Yours truly carried and used the
Bad Monkey for more than 90 days:
while I was on duty as a uniformed
peace officer, while as a law enforcement trainer, and for day-today carry and usage. These environments included patrol, search and
rescue, and close protection operations of a federal dignitary. They
also included firearms range,
subject control and physical
conditioning laboratories in police
academy training. I carried the Bad
Monkey in plainclothes, while in uniform, once while swimming, and in
excess of 300 miles of running.
I used the knife to cut paracord,
cardboard, clothing and fat juicy
meat for the grill. I used it to demonstrate for a police knife class, and to
carve up the holiday ham. I batoned
hardwood for the grill, and performed a 100-repetition spine strike
test on the Bad Monkey with no lock
failures. The 6AL4V titanium lock
and liner seemed to hold up well.
Even after months of general use
and abuse of the knife, the Bad
Monkey’s integrity was still sound,
with no looseness or rattling.
Both reviewers were impressed by the short yet
sturdy pocket clip.
ABOUT MARK ALLEN PRINCE
Mark Allen Prince is a professor of law enforcement technology/special operations at
Central Ohio Technical College; a former USDOE SRT operator; and spent 20 years in
local law enforcement special operations and training. He has developed and teaches
courses in homeland security and special operations for military, state, and local
special operations personnel and organizations, and is an instructor trainer certified by
the late Colonel Rex Applegate.
The Bad Monkey’s handle
is designed with one deep
finger groove and a large
downward curve for the
rest of the user’s fingers.
The combination of a full-size handle
(more than 5 inches) with carbon fiber
weave texture, and the finger groove and
jimping on the back of the handle and
proximal end of the blade, provide excellent purchase. The steel of the blade
(14C-28N), along with the almost 4-inch
length, modified tanto point and Emerson
Wave feature, provide a very sharp, fast
and competent business end of this
cutting tool.
The knife was easy to re-sharpen with
the kitchen steel when needed. The black
armor Cerakote finish defeated the normal wear and tear of our folder evaluation
to include batoning. (Cerakote is a ceramic-based finish used on M45 CQB pistols,
employed by the special operations units
of the U.S. Marine Corps. The M45 CQB is
PRINCE LIKES…
• The impressively durable, secure liner lock.
• The excellent purchase afforded by the
handle.
• The ease of sharpening.
SPECIFICATIONS
HANDLE: Twill-weave carbon-fiber, textured
matte finish
LOCK AND LINER: 6AL4V titanium
BLADE STEEL: 14C-28N
GRIND: Conventional flat grind
BLADE FINISH: Cerakote armor black
OVERALL LENGTH: 9.125 inches (tanto
version)
BLADE LENGTH: 3.875 inches (tanto
version)
HANDLE LENGTH: 5.25 inches
WEIGHT: 4.97 ounces
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.130 inches
The Bad Monkey features a conventional flat-ground blade, which Granger particularly admired.
Reviewer Mark Allen Prince
found the modified tanto
blade to be very effective.
updated version of the U.S. M1911A1 pistol,
long in use by U.S. military).
At more than 9 inches long, the Bad
Monkey is not a small knife, nor is it light at
almost 5 ounces. The knife is also not in-
expensive at $269.95. However, what the
Southern Grind Bad Monkey represents is
quality. It appears that Zac Brown not only
can turn out quality country tunes, but
quality folding knives as well. KI
SEARCH HERE
The Bad Monkey uses the Emerson Wave
feature for opening. Using this mechanism is
tricky at first, but many helpful tutorial
videos can be found on YouTube by searching
for “Emerson Knives Wave Feature.”
“
THIS TYPE OF KNIFE
IS THE FASTESTDEPLOYING FOLDING
KNIFE BLADE IN THE
WORLD.
“
THE STEEL OF THE
BLADE, ALONG WITH THE …
EMERSON WAVE FEATURE,
PROVIDE A VERY SHARP, FAST
AND COMPETENT BUSINESS END
OF THIS CUTTING TOOL.
”
”
The Bad Monkey’s blade steel, 14C-28N,
is a newer, high-grade steel type.
Find us on
Discover the premier
knife magazine.
www.facebook.com/knivesillustrated
KI-1408-36-42-CRKT 5/6/14 1:48 AM Page 36
EVERYDAY
WARRIOR
THESE KNIVES FROM CRKT AREN’T ONLY FOR FIGHTERS
CRKT
Tighe Dye
KI
KI-1408-36-42-CRKT 5/6/14 1:48 AM Page 37
Y
R
STORY BY CLINT THOMPSON
PHOTOS BY CLINT THOMPSON AND COURTESY OF CRKT
INSIDE of every man and woman is a warrior.
You may carry a briefcase instead of a gun, or wear a tie instead of a badge,
but a true warrior is one in heart, mind and deed—not just on the field. Every
warrior needs a blade, and CRKT has just that blade—three blades, in fact, in
the forms of their Liong Mah Design #5, the Tighe Dye and the Hammond FE9..
“EVERY WARRIOR
NEEDS A BLADE,
AND CRKT HAS
JUST THAT BLADE.”
Liong Mah Design #5
1
The Liong Mah Design #5 is a well-made handful of a knife. When I first
saw the knife on CRKT’s website, I was instantly impressed by its beefy body
and powerful-looking blade. When I received my sample and opened the
familiar CRKT box, I was not disappointed.
KI-1408-36-42-CRKT 5/6/14 1:48 AM Page 38
The #5 fit perfectly and comfortably
both in my hand and in my pocket. The
blade measures just under 3 inches long,
and a little more than 1 inch at its widest
point—an excellent size for everyday utility. It features a straight-edge blade, but
those looking for something serrated may
want to try the #5’s sister model, the #6.
While this beauty is not equipped with
a lock-blade system, its traditional
slipjoint locking system works perfectly.
When deploying the blade, there are two
distinct snapping points: one at the 90degree angle, and one at the fully opened
position.
At a very reasonable price point of
$49.99, the #5 would be perfect for the
blue-collar warrior.
Tighe Dye
2
The knife a warrior carries says a lot
about the warrior himself. For the warrior
who wants to be easily recognizable as
As folding knife locking systems go, the Tighe Dye has one of the best. The button release is designed to lock the
blade of this bad boy in the open position, but not in the closed position, thereby allowing the lucky user to use the
flipper system to deploy the blade quickly.
The oblong groove in the top of the Liong Mah #5
allows a user to open the knife with one hand.
The Liong Mah #5 uses a slipjoint locking system, which works well for two-stage deployment of the blade.
KI-1408-36-42-CRKT.CX 5/13/14 3:24 AM Page 39
CRKT CONTACT INFORMATION
COLUMBIA RIVER
KNIFE & TOOL
(503) 685-5015
www.crkt.com
The uniquely designed
Tighe Dye can be
purchased on its own, or
as a packaged deal with a
matching belt buckle and
money clip.
someone who is adventurous and who
knows his blades, the Tighe Dye
embodies both danger and beauty.
When you hold the Tighe Dye in your
hand, you may feel what Japanese samurai felt when they took up their swords: a
sense of noble responsibility and of
excitement. In your hand in either forward
or reverse grip, the knife feels reassuringly
powerful. To deploy the blade, simply
push down on the flipper tab and give a
flick of your wrist. The blade will easily fly
open and lock into the open position. A
well-designed button release holds the
blade securely in place.
Not only does the Tighe Dye function
flawlessly, it has a highly distinctive
appearance as well. It features a spearpoint blade (only one side is sharpened, in
KI-1408-36-42-CRKT 5/6/14 1:48 AM Page 40
For the DIY handyman warrior, the Liong Mah #5 offers good utility—with class.
the interest of safety), which lends itself
both to everyday tasks and to selfdefense, if necessary. Artistic grooves on
the aluminum coffin-style handle truly set
this knife apart.
Beauty may be in the eye of the
beholder, but it would be difficult for anyone not to be impressed by the Tighe Dye.
Hammond FE9
3
For those who are warriors not only in
spirit, but also out in the field, a combatready blade is a necessity. The FE9,
designed by Jim Hammond, is just the
knife for the boots-on-the-ground
warrior—or even for the more
adventurous outdoorsman.
Hammond designed the FE9 with
professional warriors in mind, and as a
police officer who served in Kosovo and
Iraq, I can attest to the FE9’s excellence.
It’s large enough to cut away anything
blocking your view, and thanks to its
MOLLE-compatible sheath (complete
The Tighe Dye is not only a work of art, and it’s also impressively functional. A well-placed pocket clip allows this
knife to be carried top up and deep in your pocket.
“THE KNIFE A WARRIOR CARRIES SAYS A LOT ABOUT
THE WARRIOR HIMSELF.”
KI-1408-36-42-CRKT 5/6/14 1:48 AM Page 41
with spare clips), it can be carried in any
number of configurations, on MOLLE gear
or simply on a hiking belt.
To test how well the FE9 withstands
tougher use, I took mine out into the
woods and put it to work. I was able to
stab the 9-inch blade into a fallen tree,
and then twist the blade around until I
made a round hole. Because of the beefy
ridge and full tang, the point sustained no
visible damage.
I then tried out the FE9’s chopping
ability. The handle, which was engineered
for two different holds, makes this easy.
Making use of the finger grooves next to
the hilt, the operator has an excellent grip
for cutting, slashing and general use.
Move your hand back one finger groove,
and you’re able to maximize the amount
of energy for chopping. I easily cut
through a sapling an inch in diameter with
a single, properly angled blow.
My 90-year-old father was looking on
as I went on a chopping frenzy, hacking
KI-1408-36-42-CRKT.CX 5/8/14 11:31 PM Page 42
THE FE9 IS AN EXCELLENT
BLADE FOR ONE BIG JOB
AFTER ANOTHER.
LIONG MAH DESIGN #5
BLADE: 2.77 inches, 8Cr14MoV with satin finish
HANDLE: Black G10
WEIGHT: 3.5 ounces
MSRP: $49.99
FAST FACTS: LIONG MAH
Designer of the Liong Mah Design #5
www.liongmahdesigns.com
• Immigrated to the U.S. from Malaysia in 1983.
• Designs knives for limited-edition runs.
• His logo is a version of the symbol for the Japanese
god of war.
The FE9 comes with a
versatile, high-strength, nylon
glass fiber-reinforced sheath
with a MOLLE clip.
TIGHE DYE
BLADE: 3.89 inches, AUS-8 with satin finish
HANDLE: Aluminum
WEIGHT: 5.1 ounces
MSRP (knife only): $89.99
MSRP (with belt buckle and money clip): $135
FAST FACTS: BRIAN TIGHE
Designer of the Tighe Dye
www.tigheknives.com
• Has been designing knives for 25 years.
• A resident of Ontario, Canada.
• Custom knives sell for $525 to $3,500.
FE9
The strong tip of the FE9 is easily able to penetrate through hard wood.
through a 3-inch sapling in two downward blows, then a 4-inch shrub, which was
severed after just four or five hacks. My dad shook his head, chuckled, and said,
“The great tree killer.” He could have been referring to me or, just as easily, to the
FE9, an excellent blade for one big job after another.
Impressive Impressions
Japanese samurai may be best known for their swords, but swords were not
their only blades. They would each have also carried a tanto, which works well for
everyday tasks but could also be used as a weapon. Modern-day warriors can take
note: Tactical knives aren’t limited to tactical contexts. You can’t do much better
than one of these three blades from CRKT to represent your inner warrior. KI
BLADE: 9 inches, O1 tool steel with black powder
coating
HANDLE: Black G10
WEIGHT: 15.2 ounces
MSRP: $375
FAST FACTS: JIM HAMMOND
Designer of the FE9
www.jimhammondknives.com
• A resident of Alabama.
• Has been a member of the Custom Knifemakers
Guild since 1978.
• Was the first custom knifemaker to design for
CRKT.
KI_1405_59 3/20/14 1:13 PM Page 59
www.knifeandgun.com
K & G FINISHING SUPPLIES
Your #1 Stabilizer for over 23 years
We can stabilize your wood, horn, bone,
Ivory and gemstone.
Custom Dying and Stabilizing
Call for more information
800-972-1192
KI-1408-44-49-BROUS.CX 5/8/14 6:27 AM Page 44
DEFENSIVE
UTILITY
THE T4 FLIPPER’S STREAMLINED YET
POWERFUL DESIGN MAKE THIS KNIFE
ANYTHING BUT ORDINARY
STORY AND PHOTOS BY TIM STETZER
s soon as I pulled the Jason Brous T4 out of its box, I
had what I call a “whoa” moment.
A
In my many years as a knife reviewer, I’ve handled countless excellent blades. Sometimes you find that something you really wanted
to like just doesn’t feel right once you finally wrap your mitts around
it. But other times, you know right away that a knife is something
extra special. This was what happened with the T4.
Perhaps this is because Brous isn’t just any knifemaker. With his
background in CNC machining and a deep interest in surrealist
Brazilian art, Brous brings not only a unique perspective, but unique
expertise to the table—figuratively and literally.
Since making his first knife in 2010, Brous has refined his style to
what his website describes as “functional simplicity, while still maintaining a strong artistic signature.” The T4 tactical flipper is an excellent example of this.
CONTACT INFO
BROUS BLADES
P.O. Box 550
Buellton, CA 93427
www.brousblades.com
KI-1408-44-49-BROUS.CXII 5/8/14 11:37 PM Page 46
HIGHLIGHTS
The reviewer’s favorite aspects of the T4 are:
• Its easy, secure grip.
• Its smooth and rapid opening mechanism.
• Its combination of being durable, yet lightweight.
Jason Brous’ T4 combines a sleek design with excellent functionality.
Devil in the Details
etary G10 back spacer is designed to
maintain the strength of the knife (and as
The T4 Flipper is a collaboration
a bonus, this makes the knife easier to
between Jason Brous and Jason Morielclean). Second, the scales cover a skeleRiboloff from Tanium Design. The 4-inch,
tonized stainless steel frame and a liner
hollow-ground, D2 steel blade features a
locking mechanism.
modified drop point and protruding flipThe only markings on the knife are a
per, which acts as a guard when the knife
discreet
Brous Blades trademark etched
is opened. A recessed finger groove is also
on the clip, and the serial
milled into on each side of
number visible on the
the blade to allow for
SPECIFICATIONS:
front of the flipper when
thumb opening if you
the knife is opened.
prefer that option. G10
scales with angled grooves
CUTTING EDGE LENGTH: 3.9
milled along their length,
In Motion
inches
BLADE THICKNESS: 3/16
as well as recessed finger
I’m a fan of a flipper
inches
grooves, enhance both the
system for knife opening
BLADE MATERIAL: D2
grip and the opening of the
for several reasons that
HANDLE MATERIAL: Black G10
blade. A pocket clip allows
are perfectly exemplified
for tip-up carry.
by the ball bearingWEIGHT: 6 ounces
Two features serve to
mounted system of the
FINISH: Black Cerakote, acid
lighten the T4’s design
Brous T4. First, I find it
wash or satin
while still retaining
fast, convenient and easy
MADE IN THE USA
strength. First, a proprito use. Second, while I’m
not averse to autos or assisted openers in
the least, a good flipper is often just as
fast as an automatic or assisted-open
knife, but with fewer parts that can malfunction. This is a huge plus for a ruggeduse blade.
Third, I like that, when opened, a flipper
provides a nice built-in finger guard for
the blade. Add that finger groove to the
excellently contoured, grooved handle on
the T4, and you have a knife that’s
extremely stable in the hand and that
locks your hand into place even under full
power thrusts and tabs.
The thumb cut-outs in the handle do
help to orient the blade by feel when
drawing it from your pocket and make it
easier to position your hand to snap the
blade open fast. I found that the grip
shape on the T4 worked extremely well in
both saber and reverse grips.
Any knife can be used for utility tasks,
obviously, but some are simply nicer to
The T4 is equally
comfortable carried in a
saber or reverse grip.
use than others. The D2 has a very good slightly toothy edge: It
isn’t hair-popping sharp, yet it cuts through paper, cordage, rope
and cardboard with ease, especially cardboard. My wife is a Girl
Scout troop leader, and it was cookie sales time so we ended up
with a lot of empty cardboard cookie cases in the garage that
had to be broken down for recycling. I used the T4 on the mess
of them and scavenged some of the cardboard to make a new
cutting and stabbing test target. The D2 held up very well on the
cardboard, which often can quickly dull the edges of even
quality blades.
The D2 steel blade features a modified drop point and a protruding flipper. The blade can
be purchased in satin-finish T4, black Cerakote or acid-washed finish.
“
THE T4 HAS MUCH TO OFFER
BOTH TACTICAL AND EVERYDAY USERS
IN NOT ONLY STYLE, BUT ALSO IN
PERFORMANCE.
”
Everyday Testing
From a purely tactical perspective, the T4 has a lot to offer a serious user. The thick D2 blade offers
very good strength and served well
at penetrating various materials,
such as denim and leather placed
over my test target. The T4 is fast
to get into play with either your
primary or support hand—an
important consideration if your
Tested TOUGH
Jason doesn’t put out any
product without rigorous
testing first. According to
Jason the T4 prototype
was beat up, taken apart
and opened more than
25,000 times and it’s still
going strong. That’s more
than most users will ever
do with even an EDC blade
in their lifetime.
The author’s T4 is number 334
in a 500-piece serialized run.
The T4 punches easily through cardboard while still
maintaining its edge—something that many knives are
unable to accomplish.
blade might be called into play as a backup weapon, or to aid in weapons retention
if your primary hand is occupied.
I used the T4 as my everyday carry knife
both at home and at work in my day job
as a police detective over the period of a
month or so. It definitely falls into the
tactical category of knives, but that said,
it makes for a very handy everyday tool as
well. The modified drop-point works well
for myriad tasks. It has enough of a point
to make a good thrusting weapon, as well
as being precise enough for small detail
A proprietary G10 spacer makes the T4 both durable and lightweight.
BONUS FEATURE
The Brous T4 locks up via a stainless steel
liner lock. That lockup is extremely secure
and no wiggle or blade play was detected
upon initial receipt of the knife or after
heavy use. It’s recessed enough to make
inadvertent release extremely unlikely, yet
the serration provided make it easy to
disengage when you choose to do so.
The T4’s pocket clip holds the knife securely within the
user’s pocket for tip-up carry.
work like picking stitching out of a pack
strap with a broken buckle and for removing a splinter. The blade has a bit of belly,
too, which worked well on slashing cuts
and for doing rocking cuts on a board
when I was trimming some leather. It
seemed to be a good blend of practical
utility and serious defensive capability.
The T4 is a good-size knife but carries
pretty easily. The low-profile carry clip lets
the knife sit deeply and discreetly in your
pocket and keeps it securely in place. The
knife is only around 11/16 of an inch at its
thickest point, so it carries pretty flatly in
the pocket as well, and at 6 ounces it
doesn’t weigh you down. If I had one issue
with the T4, it’d be that I found the clip a
By the NUMBERS
500: The number of pieces that will be
produced in the T4’s limited run
334: The serial number on the author’s knife
$259: The price for a satin-finish T4
$289: The price for black Cerakote or acid-
Thanks to a ball
bearing pivot
mechanism, the
blade flips open
rapidly and easily.
washed finish
little tight. I found that I generally had to
pull up on the clip a bit when slipping it
over the edge of my pocket. I usually
prefer a clip that slides on a little easier.
Plus, as tight as the clip grabs, I suspect
it’s going to cause enhanced wear on your
pocket over time. However, the flipside is
that it does keep the knife where it’s
supposed to be, and your chances of it
popping loose and being lost are slim.
Last Impressions
The T4 has much to offer both tactical
and everyday users in not only style, but
also in performance. Brous and MorielRiboloff have done a great job of combining sleek, modern styling with great
ergonomic features to make a very well
thought-out and functional piece of
hardware. If you’re looking for something
a step up from your basic EDC folder in
materials and design then the T4 Flipper
should definitely be on your short list. KI
KI_1408_50 5/8/14 10:51 AM Page 50
KI_1408_51 5/8/14 10:52 AM Page 51
KI-1408-52-55-ACCESSORIES 5/6/14 2:26 AM Page 52
BELLS &
WHISTLES
BUDGET BUYS
HOT
accessories
under $25
10
our blade may have cost a pretty penny, but
the things that go along with it don’t have to.
For the bargain hunter, we’ve rounded up a
list of great options currently on the market. The
only thing cooler than the accessories themselves
is their affordable pricetags!
Y
1
Smith’s Pocket Pal X2 Sharpener
and Survival Tool
The best tools are those that are capable of multiple jobs while still
fitting inside your pocket—and the Pocket Pal X2 is a prime example.
Two pull-through sharpening slots, a tapered diamond rod, a fire
starter, compass, whistle and LED light all are combined into a compact
body that measures just 3.4 inches long and 1.7 ounces in weight.
MSRP: $14.99
2
Benchmade 7-Piece
Knife Display
Want to show off your knives, but can’t afford one
of the fancier displays? This display from
Benchmade may do just the trick. The blue
Plexiglas frame can hold up to seven of your
favorite knives of almost any size.
MSRP: $25
3
4
The Vital Zip combines the best features from two
other tools that may be familiar to Gerber
enthusiasts: the E-Z Zip and the Vital
exchangeable-blade folder. Like the Vital knife,
the Zip’s utility blade can be easily exchanged, for
efficient. With six included replacement blades,
comfortable and a sturdy, highly visible orange
body, this efficient cutting tool will be a great
complement to a first responder’s kit. Also
includes a sheath.
MSRP: $15
While the Smith’s multitool lends itself well to outdoor
adventures, this little tool is perfect for everyday carry. Dropped
your phone in a dark theater? Use the LED light (two batteries are
included). Opening a package? The inch-long 3Cr13 blade will come
in handy. Cracking open a cold one? You’re already equipped with a
bottle opener. With a nylon handle and at only 1.2 ounces, it’s easy
to use in hand and easy to carry on a keychain.
MSRP: $19.49
Gerber Vital Zip
Coast LED112 3-in-1 Tool
5
TOPS Tactical NUK
When your favorite folder is more knife than you need for an
everyday task, the TOPS Non-Metallic Utility Knife may be just
what you need instead. This polymer dagger, available in two
colors, was designed for opening letters, cutting boxes, minor
prying and, if necessary, can serve as backup protection. Two
6.75-inch blades are included. Be advised: Even without a
metal blade, the NUK is not TSA-approved, and local laws
regarding fixed blades may still apply.
MSRP: $10
6
PUMA Replacement Fixed-Blade Sheath
While Kydex sheaths seem to have a particularly large presence in the market recently, there’s something to be said for
a classic, gentlemanly leather sheath. PUMA’s line of leather sheaths are handmade from top-grain, genuine cowhide
leather and 100 percent vegetable tanned. Available in a variety of sizes, there’s sure to be an option for any knife.
MSRP: $19.99
KI-1408-52-55-ACCESSORIES.CX 5/8/14 11:42 PM Page 54
7
8
For the DIY Benchmade user who wants to keep his everyday carry
in prime shape at all times, the Bluebox Service Kit will be a
valuable asset. Six bits in various sizes, along with a bit holder,
enable you to make minor adjustments to Benchmade’s unique
“six-lobe” headed screws. These pieces come in a molded plastic
case that can double as a handle.
MSRP: $20
While the full Tri-Angle Sharpmaker kit costs $100, the individual
business components (aka the stones) are much more affordable. A
sharper knife is a safer knife, and with stones of varying materials and
grits, you’ll be ready to hone your blade’s edge at a moment’s notice.
MSRP: $15.95-$23.95 (stones only)
Benchmade Bluebox Service Kit
Spyderco Tri-Angle Sharpmaker
9
Lansky Dual-Grit,
Multipurpose Sharpener
Speaking of sharpeners, here’s one you can keep in
your pocket on the go. Nicknamed the “Puck,” this
rounded stone offers a coarse side for quick cutting
and shaping, and a fine side for polishing and
finishing. Thanks to its shape, not only is it
comfortable to grip, but it can easily sharpen the
edges of a variety of edged tools, from knives to
spades to lawnmower blades.
MSRP: $8.99
JANTZ
CONTACT INFO
BENCHMADE
(800) 800-7427
www.benchmade.com
RN
CPMS 30V
#J4138 $42.95
DAMASCUS
#J4189 - $79.95
PAT
TE
GERBER
41
(877) 704-4545
www.coastportland.com
8” t
hic
k.
(800) 950-6161 ext. 1219
www.gerbergear.com
LANSKY SHARPENERS
PUMA SGB
(913) 888-5524
www.pumaknifecompanyusa.com
SMITH’S PRODUCTS
(800) 221-4156
www.smithsproducts.com
SOUTHERN GRIND
1” w
ide,
1/
(800) 825-2675
www.lanskysharpeners.com
blade
,
We told you that a special kit was available
for Southern Grind’s Bad Monkey (Page 30),
and here’s that kit. Included inside this
pocket-sized cardstock carrying case are a
pivot tool, snake-eye screw and thumb pin,
all custom designed to fit any of the knives
from the Bad Monkey Line.
MSRP: $14.95 KI
1095 Black Teflon
#J419K - $24.95
JANTZ
CUSTOM
5/8”, 3
”
Southern Grind Bad
Monkey Toolkit
1095
#J4198 - $24.95
COAST LIGHTS, KNIVES &
MULTITOOLS
QUALITY
BLADES ARE
Overall 7
10
D2
#J4128 - $32.95
100% MADE IN USA.
FLAT GROUND FROM
THE BEST USA MADE
www.southerngrind.com
STEELS AVAILABLE
SPYDERCO
AND CRYOGENTICLLY
(800) 525-7770
www.spyderco.com
HEAT TREATED.
TOPS KNIVES
FIND A BETTER
PA
PRODUCT OR
VALUE.
era
ER
Ov
TT
(208) 542-0113
www.topsknives.com
YOU WILL NOT
ll 6
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ade
” bl
5/8
42
”, 2
5/8
N
, 1 /8
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” thic
440C
#J4208 - $32.95
wide
D2
#J4228 - $32.95
7/8”
DAMASCUS
#J4289 - $69.95
1095
#J4298 - $24.95
1095 Black Teflon
#J429K - $24.95
Complete Your Blade With
Genuine 550 lb. Paracord.
Over 40 colors available at
WWW.KNIFEMAKING.COM
1-800-351-8900
KI-1408-56-59-GALLERY 5/6/14 2:31 AM Page 56
IN THE
SPOTLIGHT
Stand-Out
Style
THE BEST IN CUSTOM BLADES
he custom knife market is rich with blades of every
sort, from the utilitarian folders, to ornate swords,
and beyond. Here are a few that have caught our
eyes recently.
T
Knife by Jerry Fisk,
jerryfisk.com
Photo by Chuck Ward
Knife by Ricardo Velarde,
velardeknives.com
Photo by Eric Eggly
Knife by Edmund Davidson,
edmunddavidson.com
Photo by Eric Eggly
Knife by Jason Fry,
frycustomknives.com
Photo by Jim Cooper
Knife by Chad Nell,
nellknives.com
Photo by Jim Cooper
Knife by Logan Pearce,
pearceknives.com
Photo by Chuck Ward
KI-1408-60-63-GRAHAM 5/8/14 6:38 AM Page 60
WILD KNIVES FROM T
NEWCOMER LEVI GRAHAM’S KNIVES ARE FIT FOR A FRONTIERSMAN
STORY BY BETHANY MILLER
PHOTOS COURTESY OF LEVI GRAHAM
hile many custom knifemakers
strive for the most innovative
designs, Levi Graham prefers
the beauty of tradition.
W
Hailing from Colorado, a state rich with
frontiersman history, Graham has no shortage
of inspiration. While his knives are certainly
works of art, it’s also not hard to imagine
them sheathed on the belt of a swaggering
cowboy in the golden age of the Old West.
“My knives are not like normal, shiny knives,
and do not look ‘new age’ by any means,
” Graham says. “I like to make basic and
common blade shapes that would have been
used in the 18th- to 19th-century early
American frontier period.”
And while Graham is relatively new to the
knifemaking arena, his work is already getting
him noticed.
KI-1408-60-63-GRAHAM 5/8/14 6:38 AM Page 61
M THE WILD WEST
“I LIKE TO MAKE
BASIC AND COMMON
BLADE SHAPES
THAT WOULD HAVE
BEEN USED IN THE
18TH- TO 19THCENTURY EARLY
AMERICAN
FRONTIER PERIOD.”
—LEVI GRAHAM
KI-1408-60-63-GRAHAM 5/8/14 6:38 AM Page 62
CONTACT INFO
WEBSITE: www.levigrahamknives.com
PHONE: (970) 371-0477
EMAIL: lgknives@hotmail.com
A Knifemaker’s Journey
Graham counts among his role models
Don “White Wolf” Bruton, John Cohea, Joe
Keeslar, Kevin Cashen and Daniel Winkler.
While he had long been fond of rusticlooking knives that complemented his
pastimes of hunting and fishing, it was
one of Winkler’s knives that fanned the
flame of Graham’s interest into a flame.
“It was the coolest knife I had ever
seen,” he says. “I wanted it right then and
there, but it was about $1,800.”
This pricetag was far beyond what
Graham could afford, but not only was he
undeterred, he was even inspired.
“Two weeks later, I told my brother I
was going to make my own knife,”
Graham recalls. “He thought I was crazy
and that it was not going to happen.”
Within a week, Graham had bought his
own forge. His first attempt at making a
knife was “a complete failure,” he says,
but he kept trying, working for his father’s
construction business and practicing his
knifemaking on the side.
In 2012, however, Graham’s father sold
his business, presenting Graham with a
risky opportunity.
“I didn’t really want to go to work for
anyone else,” he says, “so I took what I
thought was a pretty big step of faith. …
Here I am about a year and a half later,
doing this full time and really enjoying it.”
Lows and Highs
Graham’s last two years have not been
without their challenges. First, while his
small workshop space sufficed for his first
forge, as his knives have become more
LEVI’S PREFERRED MATERIALS
FOR BLADES:
• 1095
• 1084
• L6
• 80CrV2
• 5160
• 53100
• W2
FOR HANDLES:
• Curly maple
• Walnut
• Ebony
• Cocobolo
• Bone
• Horn
• Antler
• Ivory
FOR SHEATH DETAILS:
• Deer fringe
• Buck thong
• Beads
• Horse hair
• Quill work
Now
DW\RXUÀQJHU WLSV
intricate, he has found himself cramped
and unable to acquire some of the tools
he wants and needs.
Second, while Graham is himself an
American Bladesmith Society apprentice,
he lacks more-experienced mentors to
offer wisdom and constructive criticism.
“I don’t know of any Master Smiths here in
Colorado, and there don’t seem to be
many knifemakers in ABS around me,” he
says. “I wish I had someone who was (in
ABS) whom I could ask questions to and
have him show me a thing or two.”
In the absence of peer feedback,
Graham is a careful self-critic, allowing
himself plenty of time to experiment and
develop his skills through trial and error.
He also has found a helpful resource in
the form of ABS videos.
Finally, like any newcomer, Graham has
faced the challenge of gaining exposure.
This, however, has begun to change since
he received the New Knife Maker Award at
the 2013 Denver Custom Knife Show,
hosted by the Professional Knifemakers
Association. As his customers continue to
be impressed by his knives and the
impeccably made sheaths that accompany them, it does not seem unlikely that
more awards await in Graham’s future.
And yet, while awards are a desirable
career boost, Graham’s vision for his work
extends much farther. He wants the
knives he makes to be not only art pieces,
but also legacy pieces.
“Each one is unique and one-of-a-kind,”
he says, “made to be handed down from
generation to generation.” KI
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FOXTROT THREE OUTDOOR
KI-1408-60-63-GRAHAM 5/8/14 6:39 AM Page 63
STRAIGHT
TO THE POINT
Foxtrot Three
Outdoor
Steel: Niolox HRC 59
Overall Length: 260 mm
Blade Length: 113 mm
Blade Thickness: 5 mm
Weight: 220 g
Order No. 1043
www.pohlforceusa.com
(727) 468-2002
KI-1408-64-67-NADEAU 5/6/14 2:56 AM Page 64
PRECISIONCRAF
BRIAN NADEAU PROVES CNC-MADE KNIVES
CAN STILL BE PERSONAL
STORY BY LES ROBERTSON
PHOTOS BY JIM COOPER
recision is the difference
between the good and the
excellent, and between the
excellent and the flawless. And
precision is the specialty of knifemaker Brian Nadeau.
P
With a background as a troubleshooter
for a German printing press and machinery designer, Nadeau is no stranger to the
art of perfecting the finest details. After
meeting and observing knifemaker
William Barrett at work, Nadeau was
inspired to take his expertise with
machinery into the field of knifemaking.
KI-1408-64-67-NADEAU 5/6/14 2:56 AM Page 65
AFTSMANSHIP
TAC 10
BLADE STEEL: CPM to W-2
HANDLE MATERIAL: Desert Ironwood
SHEATH: Custom-made leather sheath
“
I LIKE A KNIFE SLEEK,
SLIM, LIGHT AND
STRONG.
—BRIAN NADEAU
”
KI-1408-64-67-NADEAU 5/6/14 2:56 AM Page 66
Man and Machine
Machine-aided knifemaking is often
held in a lower esteem than knifemaking
by hand, but Nadeau knew he could incorporate a personal touch. For a start, he
drew on his knowledge and experience to
build his own equipment.
Next, after mastering the stock removal
method of knifemaking, Nadeau incorporated a Computer Numerically Controlled
(CNC) machine, which uses designs
programmed by the designer into a
computer to cut out the shape of a blade.
Nadeau starts with a 3-D ComputerAided Design program to input the blade’s
specifications and fixtures for keeping it in
place. Next, he sets up programs to create
the fixtures and tooling for each part of
the knife. Finally, all the components of
the knife must be finished by hand. By no
means is this process a short cut.
CONTACT
To order a knife from Brian Nadeau, email him
at brian.nadeau@sharpbydesign.com.
“
”
[NADEAU] WILL SPEND
AS MUCH TIME AS IS NECESSARY
TO PERFECT HIS PIVOT PINS
AND THE GEOMETRY OF EACH
KNIFE.
“Many [people] think I walk into the
shop and, through mental telepathy, the
mill magically starts popping out knives,”
Nadeau says.
But of course, this is hardly the case.
Nadeau is very meticulous about the
knives he builds. He’ll spend as much time
as is necessary to perfect his pivot pins
and the geometry of each knife.
“I like a knife sleek, slim, light and
strong,” he says.
In Hand
While Nadeau most enjoys crafting
folding knives, he knows his way around a
fixed blade as well. These days, he focuses primarily on tactical folders, using premium S35VN steel and titanium handles.
FAST FACTS
3 MONTHS: Delivery time for a Nadeau knife
$200-$800: Price range for a Nadeau knife
S35VN: A premium steel type — Nadeau’s
preference
TITANIUM: Nadeau’s preferred handle type
“[Titanium] is light, strong and can be
anodized,” he explains, and S35VN polishes beautifully.
He also works with carbon fiber, G10,
Micarta, woods, bone and antlers.
I have only handled a few of Nadeau’s
knives myself, but when I did I was immediately struck by just how well they executed his vision of being “sleek, slim, light
and strong.”
His commitment to precision is evident
not only in the feel and appearance of his
knives, but in their function as well. The
blades flipped open effortlessly and
locked in place exactly where they needed
to, and the knife overall had excellent balance and was visually stunning. Tactical
knife enthusiasts and custom collectors
alike are bound to be impressed. KI
VIPER
BLADE STEEL: S35VN
Frame Material: 3-D machined titanium
TYPHOON
BLADE STEEL: S35VN
FRAME MATERIAL: 3-D machined titanium
KI-1408-64-67-NADEAU 5/6/14 2:56 AM Page 67
A drop point and enough
belly for skinning makes the
Nyala useful in a multitude of
applications. The integral handle and
blade is sturdy and practical.
TALON
BLADE STEEL: CPM to W-2
SHEATH: Custom-machined
black deirin/carbon fiber
ClipiTools: A refreshing approach
to multi-function pocketknives
C176P&S
ClipiTool
Serrated
Blade
C175P
ClipiTool
Bottle Opener/
Screwdriver
C169P
ClipiTool
Scissors
See your local dealer or
visit us at www.spyderco.com
Toll Free: 1-800-525-7770
+ All stainless steel construction
+ Pocket clip for convenient carry
+ Non-locking slipjoint with fore-finger choil + Non-locking secondary tool
+ Full-flat ground blade
+ User friendly trademark Round Hole™
KI-1408-68-71-HOW TO.CX 5/8/14 11:44 PM Page 68
HOW TO...
Custom
Knife
Buying
101
MINOR PROBLEMS
1. Slight price changes.
2. Delivery delays.
3. Quality variations.
4. Miscommunication, if the maker can be
easily contacted.
MAJOR PROBLEMS
1. Multiple aspects of the knife are not as
requested.
2. Major price change, with no warning from
the maker.
3. Lack of response from the maker after
many weeks and attempts to communicate.
PART II: WHAT TO DO
WHEN ORDERING A
KNIFE GOES WRONG
STORY AND PHOTOS BY
TERRILL HOFFMAN
n case of emergency, a knife is a
great survival tool. But what do you
do if your knife IS the emergency?
I
In the previous issue of Knives Illustrated, we
discussed dealing with a custom knifemaker,
and what to expect when you order a knife.
Now it’s the time to visit the “dark side” and
discuss what to do when things go wrong. Price,
delivery, quality and communication are the
keys to a happy ending whenever you purchase
a product, and as a good customer you have
the right to expect nothing less.
Identifying Minor Problems
There are two types of crises you may
encounter while dealing with a custom maker:
those that are common and easily resolved, or
those that may ultimately demand legal action.
First, here are four of the more minor sorts of
issues you may encounter.
1. Price changes. While pricing should have
been established at the beginning of the transaction, material costs do change over time, and
KI-1408-68-71-HOW TO 5/6/14 4:23 AM Page 69
“
Knife by
Chris Reeve
THERE ARE TWO TYPES
OF CRISES YOU MAY
ENCOUNTER WHILE
DEALING WITH A
CUSTOM MAKER: THOSE
THAT ARE COMMON AND
EASILY RESOLVED, OR
THOSE THAT MAY
ULTIMATELY DEMAND
LEGAL ACTION.
”
can often be sudden and drastic. The
recent ban on ivory is just an example of
how you may have to endure material
changes, and thus, a change in price. If for
any reason the maker discovers he cannot
meet the previously established price, he
should make immediate contact to discuss
the matter. You should have the option of
accepting the change or cancelling the
order for a full refund. Still, if a project was
begun before the increase of the price of
materials, the maker should honor your
original agreement.
2. Delivery delays. When a maker states
a delivery time, often he has not taken into
account the “human factor.” After all, who
plans to have an illness or accident? Be a
little understanding for such occurrences.
For one reason or another, delays can
happen. A couple of weeks should not be a
major deal, but when it starts to go past
that point you deserve an explanation.
3. Variation in quality. In any custom
knife transaction, quality is a gray area. A
maker should try to improve the quality of
each knife; the knife made for you should
be at least on par with the knives he has
sold before.
4. Miscommunication. Imagine a
customer telling a the maker he wants a
5 ½-inch blade, but then spending the next
hour explaining that the best knife he ever
had was a 6-inch model. The next day, the
maker only remembers how the customer
was happy with that 6-inch knife. Both the
customer and the maker should keep a
written log containing all details to the
transaction and each other’s contact information, including mailing addresses. for the
knifemaker and that he has your contact
information. Between all of these means,
you should both be able to reach each other for clarification.
Addressing Major Problems
But what do you do in the event of an
actual crisis? Suppose it’s September and
your knife was due in July, you ordered a
6-inch blade and he made it 5 inches, the
handle is wood and not stag, and the
maker added an extra $100 to the cost.
How do you proceed?
1. In any situation, the very first thing to
do is to stay calm and check your written
notes on the transaction. Give the maker a
phone call. Discuss your concerns and
KI-1408-68-71-HOW TO 5/6/14 4:24 AM Page 70
SEARCH HERE
If you’re having trouble tracking down a
maker, you may be able to find someone
who has more information on an online
forum such as:
• bladeforums.com
• customknife.org
• knifeforums.com
• knifenetwork.com
listen to all of your options. At the very
least, any major problem should prompt
him to offer you the option of not accepting the knife and receiving a refund. If you
make a call and the maker doesn’t
answer, wait a day or two, then try again.
You might also send him an email. Don’t
panic if you aren’t able to reach him
immediately. Knifemakers are real people,
and real people take vacations, have
emergencies and hundreds of other
reasons not to jump when a phone rings.
But if several days go by without a
response, try contacting him again.
2. Be respectful in your communications. Any message left on an answering
machine, or any emails, should be
respectful and asking for nothing more
than the chance to discuss your problems
directly. Simple problems happen, and
until the two of you discuss them, neither
party should go off the deep end.
3. If a few weeks go by with no response to multiple forms of correspondence, it’s time to write a letter. If two
messages left on a machine and two
emails fail to elicit a response after a
couple weeks, it’s time to write a letter.
Again, keep it respectful and request the
chance to discuss the problem. (You’re
going to feel awfully foolish screaming to
Knife by
Martin Winn
Knife by
Yurco Knives
Knife by
Kyle Moen
Knife by
Craig Brewer
KI-1408-68-71-HOW TO 5/6/14 4:24 AM Page 71
the world if you find out the poor guy had
a heart attack and has been in the hospital.) All of the above efforts should stay
between you and the maker.
4. Only after you have tried all possible efforts to contact the maker should
you even consider making your problems public. The Internet can be helpful,
but because this is a private transaction,
your first efforts online should only be to
gain help in contacting the maker. Someone else may have heard of a very good
reason why the two of you can’t make
contact. Try public forums on sites like
knifenetwork.com or knifeforums.com.
5. If a substantial time has passed
and none of your efforts have produced
results, only then is it appropriate to
turn to legal recourse. If nothing works,
and a substantial amount of time has
passed, remember this was a business
transaction; you have the same legal
recourse as any other commercial transaction. How far you can carry your efforts
for restitution may depend on the amount
of money involved. Look into reporting the
matter to the Better Business Bureau and
to any professional associations of which
the maker may be a member (such as the
American Bladesmith Society or Knifemakers Guild). You could even consider
filing in a small claims court.
6. This is the point at which it may be
acceptable or even advisable to make
the matter public. If a maker fails to
supply the product you have paid for, it’s
time to warn others. If you do so, refrain
from impassioned ranting. A wise man
stays calm and simply states the facts.
Keep in Mind…
Dealing with a custom knifemaker can
be a joyous adventure, and many customers and makers end up good friends. I
myself have knives that will become family heirlooms, and have excellent friendships with several makers. However, not
everyone has the same good fortune. Just
remember that having a knife made is a
business transaction, and it should be
kept that way. Customers and makers
should be professional in all aspects of
the process. Keep in mind, too, that as a
customer, you also have obligations in the
transaction. The best deal is one in which
both parties are ultimately happy. KI
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KI-1408-72-79-BENCHMADE 5/6/14 4:53 AM Page 72
“THE BENCHMADE TEAM IS BUSY INVENTING,
INNOVATING AND BLURRING THE LINES THAT
HAVE TRADITIONALLY BEEN DRAWN BETWEEN
MANUFACTURED AND CUSTOM KNIVES.”
Benchmade employees handsharpen new knives at the
company’s Oregon factory.
FROM THE
INSIDE OUT
OUR TOUR OF THE BENCHMADE FACTORY
REVEALS HIGH STANDARDS OF EXCELLENCE
STORY AND PHOTOS BY CRAIG HODGKINS
he Benchmade Knife Company recently celebrated its 25th anniversary,
but don’t expect the Oregon-based sports cutlery business to rest on its
laurels. The Benchmade passion for making the best knives in the
world simply won’t allow that mindset to gain a foothold. The Benchmade
team is too busy inventing, innovating and blurring the lines that have
traditionally been drawn between manufactured and custom knives.
T
According to its website, Benchmade Knife Company
manufactures knives for a “loyal and ever growing following of knife users around the globe.” The commitment to
world-class quality is embodied in the motto, “It’s Not
Just a Knife. It’s a Benchmade.”
In 1996, Benchmade’s exponential growth led to a
move to a 30,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in
Oregon City. In 2011, more growth demanded that an
additional 20,000 square feet be developed. I recently
had the opportunity to tour this expanded facility to see
for myself what that “loyal and ever-growing following”
already seems to know: Benchmade makes some pretty
amazing knives.
GETTING A HANDLE
Save for the ubiquitous butterfly logo (which readers
of Knives Illustrated most certainly will recognize), from
“EACH HANDLE GOES THROUGH A
VARIETY OF PROCESSES BEFORE IT’S
READY TO BECOME PART OF A
BENCHMADE KNIFE.”
A bird’s-eye view of some of the machines that assist team members in producing the
quality components of Benchmade products.
ABOUT BENCHMADE
Location: Oregon City, Oregon
Employees: 190
Website: www.benchmade.com
In addition to housing all staff offices and a sizable manufacturing facility, the Benchmade headquarters building also features a company store, which is open to the public.
the street the Benchmade building looks
like any other business. But, like one of
their many high-quality folders, it’s what’s
inside that counts.
The first thing I saw through my safety
goggles upon entering the manufacturing
plant was a long row of shelving units,
with most shelves piled high with stacks
of trimmed and cut sheets of varying
thicknesses. These sheets are used to
produce knife handles, and include everything from aircraft grade aluminum to
Zytel (a lightweight glass-filled nylon).
Other materials include cocobolo
(a Central American hardwood); stabilized wood (hardwood veneers impregnated with dyes and resins); Micarta
(pressure-sealed resin-soaked linen); and
Kydex (a mixture of acrylic and PVC).
I say “most” shelves because with manufacturing going at full tilt, as it was the
day I visited, quantities of the handle
material are always in a state of being
depleted and restocked. Handles, of
course, come in all different shapes, sizes
and materials, and Benchmade takes care
to design enough grip and stability in each
model no matter the overall size so that it
will ultimately be functional to a broader
range of varying hands.
Each handle goes through a variety of
processes before it’s ready to become
part of a Benchmade knife. The vast
majority will receive several rounds of
shaping courtesy of lasers, CNC machines
or—in the case of a few handle materials—chemical processes. These ultramodern laser cutters and CNC machining
centers offer Benchmade the precision
and control usually reserved for the
aerospace industry.
In addition to handles, full liners and
cartridge liners for each model of knife are
tooled from titanium and stainless steel,
and polished in large revolving bins.
Cutting Edge Artists Choose Tormach Mills
Knifemakers around the world are using Tormach PCNC milling machines to add new dimensions to
their craft. Today’s top blade artists are embracing CNC technology to shape and sculpt blades and
handles, cut precision blade locks and other mechanisms,
and customize designs with engraving and detail.
Tormach PCNC 1100 Series 3
starting at
$8480
(plus shipping)
Follow knifemaker John Grimsmo as he
makes his own knives with a PCNC 1100 on
his web series, Knifemaking Tuesdays, at
www.tormach.com/kmt.
Shown here with optional
stand, LCD monitor, machine
arms, and accessories.
Grimsmo Knives milling a fixed blade, called
The Tor, on a Tormach PCNC 1100.
www.tormach.com/knives
SPEAKING OF STEEL
When most people think of knives, they
think of steel. When it comes to blade
BENCHMADE’S “THREE M’S”
OF EXCELLENCE
• Materials
• Mechanisms
• Manufacturing
“WHEN IT COMES TO BLADE
STEELS, BENCHMADE NOT
ONLY SELECTS PREMIUM
GRADES FOR THEIR
NATURAL QUALITIES, BUT
HAS ALSO PERFECTED A
PROPRIETARY CUSTOM
HEAT-TREATING PROCESS…”
steels, Benchmade not only selects premium grades for their
natural qualities, but has also perfected a proprietary custom
heat-treating process that maximizes each steel’s edge toughness and cutting performance. The company then makes them
available in a number of finishes, coatings and blade styles.
THE MAKING OF A BENCHMADE
Step 1: The handle is shaped and finished.
Step 2: A blade is laser cut from a sheet of heat-treated steel.
Step 3: The components of the knife are assembled by hand.
Step 4: The blade is sharpened.
Step 5: The knife is packaged for sale.
Benchmade knife handles are made from a wide variety of materials. Each stack on this rack contains a different material waiting to be cut, shaped and built.
Some of these steels include 154CM
(an American-made, premium-grade
stainless steel originally developed for
tough industrial applications), S30V (also
American made and developed especially
for knives), D2 (an air-hardened tool
steel, which offers good corrosion resistance and excellent mileage in wear resistance), M390 (a high-performance blade
steel with superior cutting ability and
wear resistance due to its high concentration of vanadium and chromium carbides)
and Damascus (a specially forged, lay-
ered steel that offers remarkable toughness and edge quality).
Whether the material is 154CM, M390 or
Damascus, each sheet is heat treated via
the custom process, then laser cut in tightly-grouped patterns designed to produce
the maximum number of blades and to
limit waste (and the resulting “Swiss
cheese” remainders are all recycled).
Benchmade believes that if they’re going to
put this much effort into designing a
custom quality cutting tool, then it only
makes sense to build it out of the materials
that complement its form and enhance its
function. In some instances, that means
more than just selecting a certain material.
Once cut, each blade begins a multistep journey from surface grinding (where
the future blades are worn down to the
right thickness), tumbling, hardening and
polishing to building and sharpening.
Surprisingly, much of this finish work at
each important step is done by hand.
BUILDING TO SUIT
Benchmade creates the majority of
their knives to fit in three broad classes
(Gold, Blue and Black) to suit a wide variety of users. They also develop co-branded products, custom knives, tactical pens
and other accessories and tool such as
safety cutters.
Gold Class knives are designed to
erase the lines between custom and
manufactured blades. By default, these
are hand-made limited editions and are
A steel sheet after the laser has cut out the knife blades. Even though there’s very little waste, each sheet is then
recycled.
This tray of custom knives designed and handcrafted by Shane Siebert awaits final packaging.
available only through Authorized
Premium dealers.
The Blue Class knife is specifically designed and built for the
individual who appreciates the
difference a high-quality cutting
tool can make.
The Black Class represents the
most commonly used knives by
professionals such as law enforcement and public safety
personnel to elite military troops.
After the handles, liners and
blades have made their way
through their various processes,
components in the Blue and Black
classes are grouped into “build
“BENCHMADE
CREATES THE
MAJORITY OF THEIR
KNIVES TO FIT IN
THREE BROAD
CLASSES…”
kits.” These kits are then moved
along to the team members
responsible for crafting each
Benchmade knife. All knives are
built by hand. Variances and
clearances are checked and
double-checked to ensure proper
fit and mechanical operation.
The final step in the process of
creating a Benchmade knife is
sharpening, after which each new
knife is packaged with written
documentation of the Benchmade Warranty. This warrants to
the original owner that the knife
will be free from defects in materials and workmanship.
One of the most fun parts of
the tour was visiting with the
Customer Care team. There’s a
fun collection of various Benchmade knives that have been returned under warranty, many of
them from active duty service
personnel who have literally put
the knives through unimaginable
torture tests. Another stop was at
A blade direct from the laser (right) and the same model of blade after the first
round of rough grinding (left). Note the grain.
Those are cartridge liners for the 530 or 531 knife. Unlike full liners, which you
see in other models, cartridge liners reduce overall weight and are pocketed in
the handle material to give the knife a slim handle profile.
A member of the Benchmade team builds a knife.
A group of T-hawks arrive fresh from the hardening
process.
This pair of carbon fiber handles are for Benchmade’s
new 940-1 knife, and are resting on the surface of an
uncut sheet of matching material. Carbon fiber offers
exceptional strength for its minimal weight, and the
940-1 has an overall weight of just 2.4 ounces.
PROVEN,
LIKE THE
TEAMS THAT
USE THEM.
FORGED
OUT OF TRADITION.
HARDENED
IN THE FIELD.
HONED
FROM EXPERIENCE.
A typical “build kit,” with all the components ready to
become a new Benchmade knife!
the research and development lab, where
a variety of potential models are put
through Benchmade’s own set of
use/abuse tests.
The company insists that there really is
a “Benchmade Difference,” and that it
comes from focusing on the three M’s:
Materials, Mechanisms and Manufacturing. After touring the facilities and witnessing the three Ms in action, I’d say they
could make a compelling argument that
there truly is a difference. KI
SOG knives and tools are born of the military, preferred
by U.S. Special Forces teams for decades. So whether
you’re answering the call of duty or arming yourself with
innovation, lead the way with SOG. sogknives.com
TAKE POINT.
TM
Craig Hodgkins is Editor of Gun World
magazine. Special thanks to Derrick Lau of
Benchmade Knife Company for facilitating
the tour.
KI-1408-80-AD INDEX 5/6/14 5:06 AM Page 80
ADINDEX
Bear and Son Cutlery
3
Blade HQ
41
BladeGallery.com
39
Blue Ridge Knives
75, 80
Cas Iberia
5
Chris Reeve Knives
67
Coast Products
81
HallMark Cutlery
55
Jantz Supply
50-51, 55
Kershaw Knives
84
Knife and Gun Finishing Supply
41
Knife Center Of The Internet
71
Krudo Knives
9
Leecutlery.com
79
Niagara Specialty Metals
71
Ontario Knife Company
71
POHL Force USA
63
Randall Made Knives
80
SOG Specialty Knives
79
Southeastern Custom Knife Show
75
Spyderco Inc.
67
Tandy Leather Factory
43
TOPS Knives
83
Tormach LLC
75
Tru-Grit, Inc.
79
*Anza Handmade
W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Co.
2, 43
*Microtech
WILSON COMBAT
49
LEE'S CUTLERY
Specializing in:
Custom Knives, Anza Handmade Knives,
Chris Reeve, Microtech, Collectible Knives,
Military Knives, Great Eastern Cutlery,
Randall Knives, Protech, Newt Livesay
Knives, Sticks & Canes
*Chris Reeve
*Great Eastern
*Protech
*Newt Livesay
BUY-SELL-TRADE
www. leescutlery.com
888-340-0318
or 480-225-6897
VoiceMail
* Authorized Dealer
Order
your
copy
7RGʋɨ
7
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Call us at: 1-800-764-6278
KI_1408_81 5/5/14 4:41 AM Page 81
Now
DW\RXUÀQJHUWLSV
Knives Illustrated
Knives Illustrated is now
available on Apple Newsstand, Google
Play and Kindle.
Knives Illustrated is your guide to the best knives -hunting, chef ’s, tactical, outdoor, collectibles, and more.
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KI-1408-82-READER 5/6/14 5:07 AM Page 82
SHOW
& TELL
Show & Tell appears at the end of every issue of
Knives Illustrated. In it, readers tell us about their
favorite knives from their personal collections. Interested in showing off your knife? Email Bethany
Miller at bmiller@beckett.com.
ABOUT THE OWNER
Name: Steve Hanner
From: Annapolis, MO
Occupation: Farmer, iKnifeCollector
community manager
ABOUT THE KNIFE
Manufacturer: Queen Cutlery
Model: 4180 Oak Drop Point Hunter
Owned since: 2012
1. What made this knife catch your
eye?
I was drawn to its D2 tool steel. I was
looking for a reliable, long-lasting edge
that I wouldn’t have to keep sharpening,
which makes it useful as part of my
winter everyday carry.
2. How many knives do you own, and
why is this one in particular your
everyday carry?
I own about 150 knives. This particular
knife, with its oak handle, just became a
favorite. It’s kind of like slipping on a pair
of worn, comfortable boots to go to
work.
3. Do you have any stories of when
this knife came especially in handy?
During the winter months, a fixed
blade is very important. There are a
thousand things to do, and I seldom
have time to reach into my pocket and
search for a knife. I attach this to my belt,
and its easily available to cross draw
through my coat.
For example, we had a bad storm, the
kind with trees down all over, and
extensive damage. I used this knife to cut
and hack brush, untwist tangled metal
fencing, and reattach temporary fencing
for animal control. I had to cut through
an old trampoline that had been blown
almost a quarter mile by the storm and
was now hung up, acting as a sail and
threatening to pull down a section of
fence. KI
Steve finds this fixed-blade particularly useful when working around his farm in the winter.
KI_1408_C3 5/5/14 4:43 AM Page C3
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KI_1408_C4 5/5/14 4:44 AM Page C4
WELCOME
TO
THE EDGE
ZEROTOLERANCEKNIVES.COM
/ZTKnives
@ZTKnives
ZTKnives

Knives Illustrated

Transcription

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