If anyone is looking for a bizarre new handle material to try, buy some high quality composite deck boards. It’s super tough, water proof, feels like stone to the touch, and polishes up like a dream.
Love Seth. I can hear y'all talk knives all day. As I mature in age and knife knowledge, I've come to realize your talks become more relevant and enjoyable.
That merlin looks like a fixed blade Sod Buster Kissing Crane, which is still one of my favorite carving knives. It carves woods of many kinds, precise and effortless. Once you've sliced, notched, scored, feathered, and even slowly drilled with one, you will fall in love.
Just wanted to say thank you. Was a pleasure just to sit and listen to quality criteque on art work. Not unlike spending an afternoon smokin cigars and drinking tea in a shop in Bond street London deciding on a suit.
Hey DCA. I appreciate how articulate you are. One word-smith to another: maybe "idiosyncrasies" would make the point you were after better than "imperfections." Great video. Thanks.
Definitely custom fixed blade curious.. just want start with how much I appreciate this video! As a former Boy Scout I definitely have a fondness for folders BUT I’ve definitely been thinking about adding a couple of fix blades to my collection.. that is of course after I get over my Spydie bug xD
I have a modest collection, mostly folders, but I've acquired a few fixed blades as well. My first custom fixed blade was made for me by James Alexander of J.D.'s Knives in Little Rock, Mississippi. My knowledge of knives, materials & what it took to actually create a knife was severely limited at the time - you might say I was absolutely & completely ignorant of it all. But I'm better now. James guided me through the process and sent me photos of various steps in the process. He really did a fine job, and the custom hunter he made for me is one of my favorite fixed blades. The last fixed blade I bought was a hand made Mini Kephart from Fire Creek Forge. A lot of love went into the making of that little blade, and it shows. You guys probably just made me spend more money on knives. I hope you're happy... :/
Enjoyed the vid. I appreciate high quality and craftmanship in handmade fixed blade knives. I have several Randall's that I will gift to family when the time comes. I did have a chance to visit the Randall shop a couple of times and it was a real treat. Bo had just passed before my first visit but Mrs Bo (Ruth I think) was there in the 'showroom' part of the shop. The knife museum and the testimonials are worth the trip. Two letters from Ronald Reagan one when he was in the Army and the second on White House stationary thanking Bo for the knife catalog and the congratulatory note were on display in the museum.
These are beautiful works of art that I could easily see myself buying if I believed that there were good times ahead. There are bad storms coming. I'm buying accordingly.
I am a hardcore knife collector which means I am probably in good company... I started off my collection with a few tactical knives when I was a LEO, Blurs, a ZT 0200, 0770cf, etc. The addiction really took off when I got into woodworking and at my local Woodcraft store they had knife blanks. I made handles, taught myself to scrimshaw, and eventually started looking to learn how to make blades. I met a custom knife maker at a gun and knife show in Houston and started working on them since. I met Specer Aplin from STA Custom Knives and learned a lot about working the metal and materials to make a beautiful knife. I own two of his customs, a few of my creations and dozens of other knives. In fixed blades, the closest I have gotten to the custom feel from a mass produced knife is Lionsteel and Tops (for different reasons though). In folders, Viper all day long.... And Smith and Sons
Love it. I got into making knives myself a few years ago when a friend got me a gift certificate for a knife making course at a forge. Got to know a local master smith who has helped me with the metal side. I've only made a few and while not great it certainly is fun to do. What I have found more accessible - like you indicate - is buying knife blanks and doing the handles myself. Much easier to do at home and I can really shape the handles to suit me and use colours/ materials I like. Have a great day.
I own 2 Custom jobs- Shining Mountain, in the early 90's, made a limited batch of Bowie knives in 52-100 steel, Convex grind, walnut handle. Best Bowie I've ever owned..ive own many #2 Dude made me a 5 inch fixed blade from a leaf spring, red wood handle w/ black acrylic inlay...black liners under the scales...work of art !
Always a pleasure watching you gents pontificate about fixed blades. Not a big fan of them myself, but you got me very interested in a couple. Just picked up a couple of KATSU folders that you both should check out that brand. Let us know your thoughts
I only have two custom fixed blades, and both for different reasons. I have a Chico, from Joe Loui Knives. I bought it because I'm a New Mexico native and Joey Cordova lives maybe 30 minutes from my hometown, and I wanted a piece of my home state. The knife itself is a little bruiser, but I do still carry it. The second is a Bradshaw Pocket Scalpel, because I *had to have it.* My mom got me a wallet forever ago, from Hawaii, that was made of Koa wood. This little Pocket Scalpel happened to have Koa bolsters. It didn't hurt that the knife weighs half what the Chico does. And that was what tipped me into getting the Bradshaw.
Custom folders were a rare thing when I was getting serious about knives. The names like Randall, Loveless, Morseth, and Dan D. meant custom knife. Steels were D2, 440C, 154CM, and a the 1095 -like tool steels with the exception of Morseth who used a laminate. It makes me happy that the art of the fixed blade is still out there and still advancing. My latest acquisition is a tiny fixie made by hand by AriesEDC. I cuss myself every time I remember turning down a Randall Survival (17?) and buying a Benchmade CQC7. BTW for Seth: try Scout Carry brother. You probably have but try it again.
I love this series, part of me wishes it was more of a regular thing but then I do like it how yous just do it when yous have a topic yous reeeeeally want to do. Also, Seth... did you ever find that survival knife haha? Or just loads that werne't worth buying lmao
I own one custom fixed blade: a Red/White/Blue edition Skinner from Haymaker customs. It's a small blade made out of hand-ground AEBL steel that's razor sharp! I absolutely love the elk antler and trustone handles and how they feel in hand. It was a pricy piece for sure, but it's one of a kind and definitely one of the highest quality knives in my collection.
I have come to appreciate an EDC fixed blade knife in the last few years. I currently use a production knife every day, a Muela Colibri with stag handles. Very beautiful, great feel in the hands. I will definitely have to look at some of what you have. Thanks for the demonstration.
First time I’ve wanted every knife on the table! I only have one hand made folder, but many hand made fixed blades. I did buy my son in law that wolverine for Christmas, he was pretty jacked about it. Many custom fixed blades I’ve been wanting.
Not sure about you but the next knife I purchase will be a small fixed blade from TM Hunt. This was in effect before this video. But let me see what KC has ATM 🤔
I have two Kellam blades that I turned into beautiful knives. A grandfather blade that I paired with a redwood burl handle and a 3.5” small puukko with a madrona handle. I use small puukko exclusively for carving. Great quality hand made carbon steel. Thanks 🔪🎸
Kellam made good blades and have good heat treats. Love redwood! Never seen madrone first hand but certainly looks nice. Should last you years. Have a great day.
This last year I got so much into custom fixed blades I've actually starting making custom knife scales recently. My 3 favorite custom knife makers I recommend everyone check out are Arc and Iron Knives, New Edge Tool, and Deer Rock Knives.
@@davidgarrett5671 I'm thinking about starting making knives again this winter. The scales project was kind of an excuse to maaaaaaybe buy a grinder this winter when I have a lot of time off...but I'm kinda digging just doing the scales for now. We'll see how I feel in a couple months.
My first good fixed blade was an L.T. Wright Genesis Scandi, and I loved it so much I bought more L.T. Wright knives. I have 3 now. they are just so good I didn't even notice anything else out there anymore. Really well made, and absolutely have a soul. That said, I do hold the rest of these makers in high esteem. T.M. Hunt would probably be my next buy if I didn't like those Jesse Jarosz knives so much... damn you KnifeCenter lol. also I credit this channel and KnifeCenter for introducing me to Moki knives. I have the larger Kronos folder from them and it is without flaw as far as I can tell. The people who make those HAVE to care for it to make it so nice.
I have an ANZ Boddington. Absolutely no complaints. Is a good general field/camp knife. Little bit of maintenance because of the steel but nothing a small amount of oil can't fix. Pricing not too bad either. Has a really good handmade vibe and good ergos. ANZA have a reasonably wide range so worth a look for those wanting a reasonably priced 'custom'. Have a great day.
Some great insights here - thanks for sharing some of your collections. Love that Jesse Jarosz Mission - the detailing is insane. I have a handmade 10” chef’s knife from Thomas Haslinger in S30V with carbon scales. It’s one of the most beautiful things I own and brings me joy every time I use it. Saved up for months to afford it and I regret none of that abstention. Same is true for my handmade khukuri from Kailash - what a beautiful thing to use. And I had Stuart Mitchell in Sheffield make me a (kinda) deba and a sgian-dubh to my own designs and there’s just something magical about being part of that process and knowing that nobody anywhere has anything the same.
That's the one thing most people don't understand. Is the geometry of the blade, or more specifically the edge. Has more impact on edge retention than the steel used, or even the heat treat. Assuming that quality steel was used, and it was heat treated properly. I mean you can't grab junk steel and do a crap job on the heat, but if good steel like 1095 or even aus8 is used and the heat treat is done right. With the right geometry. It'll hold an edge just as long or longer than any "super steel" that doesn't have the right edge geometry for the way YOU use the knife. Unfortunately I'm not that good at sharpening. So i can't play around and find the just right edge for my use.
Thanks, guys, for the share. Completely agree that establishing relationships with custom makers, as well as appreciating the differences in expertise, is an extremely satisfying segment of the hobby. Luv Kyle Daily's file work, Randall's timeless design and quality, and Denis Tyrell (and others) damascus pattern forging capabilities.
Learning to love this kind of blade lately, the personalised character rather than an identical mass produced clone, many have an old fashioned rustic feel and are beautiful 🔪🔪😎✌️✌️
Howdy folks! Well I have more fixed blades than I will ever use but can’t stop collecting…love folders and have bunch but fixed custom are a addiction. Highly recommend attending Blade Show to see how amazing they can be! Saddle up!
GNS Saber grind is one of the best fixed blade knives I've ever held or used. It batons like a much bigger blade. Feathers beautifully and retains value. I love that Gen 3. I have a luminous 5. It's literally indestructible.
Glad to see fixed blades getting some lovin'. Just me - when I get a custom folder I tend to want to put it away and not use it; whereas when I get a custom fixed blade I just want to get outside and use it. OMHO but I think there's better value in a custom fixed blade because they don't have to spend so much time on an opening & locking mechanism. Like DCA indicated, for me the magic is in the handle because you can shape a handle much better by hand than by mass production machine. I know they can cost $$$ but look around as their are some great small batch makers out there. Sharp blades all.
Great topic! So glad you covered it! Fixed blades are my thing. Michigan makers might be my favs. With Jim Behring topping my list. His son is just as good. Hess knives (former Marbles shop guy) Gary M. Schiller, love White River,Bark River, LT Wright, Blind Horse, Battle Horse, Morris, Peregrine Forge, Mike Irie, Zoe Crist. Also really like older Randalls.I really enjoy the Wolverine knife Collectors show in Michigan where you can meet the makers & buy their stuff or order customs. Theres a show in Dundee this Nov.
David Thomas and Seth, this video touched me. I have several (Semi custom knives) in my collection. But I'm not sure of the definition. Small batch, individually made by one person, handmade meaning basic hand tools? Where do you draw the line in the definition of a custom knife? Good video and some beautiful knives. Thanks
I have a couple knives from Big Chris, and hopefully I’ll get the chance to own a few more in the future. I absolutely love them! Even my 5 year old daughter thinks they’re the most beautiful, and most fun to use, in my collection. Hefty price tag for sure, but I’d much rather do business with a great guy making cool stuff right here in the USA. Not to mention, if cared for properly, I will be able to pass them down to her when I’m gone.
Most of these don't appeal to me at all, but I do like the K.H. Daily pair and the Merlin and Mission are nice too. But I'm not a collector, more of an accumulator... Well, OK, I like that puko too. I don't see fixed blades, at least in the lower price range, being cheaper than folders. And that annoys me; lots less machining, parts and labor involved, yet the prices don't reflect that.
I was told Randell was making knives for fellow soldiers in Vietnam and he has my respect for it. I bought a Gerber Australian Bowie when I was in the army. So needless to say I'm fond of USA made. But at this point I am looking to add some Japanese made knives to my budding collection. My feeling is that some if not most of the custom knives made there have a fit and finish that is second to none. What do you carry and suggestions?
Hey DCA does your phone have a Dial Up sound ringtone? I have heard the old modem sound in couple of videos and it stopes as soon as you reach into your pocket! If that is your ringtone, it’s awesome just like all the videos you make.
Howdy Knife center, great video and content. Got my fair share of fixed blades, 4 that I've done myself. All just regular steel. It won't perform until it's in my hand. I do believe the "intimacy and intimate" were the needed verbage. Like you said there hands-on in its face creating it. Then it's passed to the user for the same reason. Ooohhh it feels so good. Thank you for your effort and the video.
Hi DCA and Seth, great stuff as always. I have what might be a big ask/challenge, but I'd really like to see if you can come up with a selection of knives that fill this niche. 98% of all the knives I can find (fixed blade or folder) have some combination of either G10/Fiberglass/Plastic/etc, Wood/Bone/Horn/etc, or Metal/Steel/Titanium/Etc. Most of them are black or grey, or some pattern that makes them look either tactical, hunting, or like what someone would get when they want to cosplay as John Wick when going to the supermarket. I use knives pretty regularly - lots of the time for cutting straps, breaking down boxes, or the little daily tasks that are just made a little easier with a knife. My problem is that I'd like something that is pleasant to use and hold, but I'm not trying to pretend that I'm going to need to suddenly defend myself from a wave of attackers or baton logs in order to survive in the wilderness. Looking through your site, there are a few knives that use Ultem (PEI) as a handle material, and one or two shaving razors that use an attractive abalone or shell pattern - but I'd really like a knife that takes itself a little less seriously while still offering a premium steel (S35/S45/M390/etc). I'm thinking like some of the designs you see on upscale Italian fountain pens - crushed resin, layered resin, ebonite, urushi, etc. tl;dr are there any knives with a premium steel, good construction, and fun handle material/design? (You can reference the Leonardo Momento Zero Fountain Pen, the Pelikan m800, or the Pilot Urushi). If there are any options available, I'd love to see some different takes/price points. Thanks.
I have several customs. I tried to EDC a couple. It was disappointing. Natural bone handle broke. Damascus blades that wouldn't hold an edge, and some had a poor grind to start with. I stick with production blades for EDC now, my current is the Buck Alpha Hunter. My customs are safe queens. I wear a 2XL glove. I've ordered customs that have a handle for a med to maybe lg hand. It's disappointing.
My first fixed blade I bought was an Anza knife. A guy would pull up next to my job(shipyard in San Diego)and place all his knives on a leather mat on the floor.
I bought my first custom knife and just appreciate the detail and uniqueness of this fix blade. Unfortunately my heart wants to write checks that my wallet cant cash and it will be awhile before I buy another.
I'm custom curious. What I really want is a custom made fixed blade that fills the same role as the Spyderco Waterway. A handle anything in the fishing role kind of knife with materials more or less impervious to the conditions. I'd love to see a custom take on this.
Maybe I totally missed it, but what's the price point for the last knife( Kellam Puukko) & what are the specs, as in blade & handle dimensions? Or at least in contrast to David's Slightly Larger Than Average Hands (😁) in particular, could give me a good idea of its actual size. Somewhat objectively, at least...
I love knives all around, and good quality knives are great, but when it comes to customs, the more the price, the more hesitant I would be to use it. Plus, I can't afford much. On that note, are there any good custom knives that are under $200, preferably under $100? In sure not, but you guys would know. So help me out, please, and thank you.
If a knife or any product for that matter isn't made to order for the customer. Either to tailored to fit them or with their own personal input on the end product. It isn't custom made
What would be the difference between hand made and custom? Not sure if I agree about the best knife being a fixed blade it just depends on your circumstances and needs 😎
I've got a Randall my dad got back in the day. And we've beaten the shit out of it for the last 30 years. We had no clue what it was worth until like last year 😂😂 now we regret treating it like we have lol
I love knives and only recently opened up to fixed blades after my uncle got me a TOPS and Birddog.. Wow, fantastic blades. This was really informative and I wanted to say you two have the best format ever.. I love BladeHQ too as a place to buy knives, but their live action knife stuff is not up to this standard. DCA and Tomas know the blades and study them ahead of reviewing.. seems like common sense no? Yeah BHQ gets the specs right like half the time and can never seem to throw together a good review.
Unless Im totally misunderstanding you, poignant is not the word you were looking for (it means makes you really sad or full of regret, which is not the sense of getting you get from fixed blades)
![Chino Pacas - Modo Capone (with Drake & Fuerza Regida) [Video Oficial]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/zjv8TQ0gBkg/mqdefault.jpg)
If anyone is looking for a bizarre new handle material to try, buy some high quality composite deck boards. It’s super tough, water proof, feels like stone to the touch, and polishes up like a dream.
What about grip? Is it slick when wet or dry?
@@pistolwhip502Decent grip when dry, but gets a little slippery when wet.
Love Seth. I can hear y'all talk knives all day. As I mature in age and knife knowledge, I've come to realize your talks become more relevant and enjoyable.
That merlin looks like a fixed blade Sod Buster Kissing Crane, which is still one of my favorite carving knives. It carves woods of many kinds, precise and effortless. Once you've sliced, notched, scored, feathered, and even slowly drilled with one, you will fall in love.
Just wanted to say thank you. Was a pleasure just to sit and listen to quality criteque on art work. Not unlike spending an afternoon smokin cigars and drinking tea in a shop in Bond street London deciding on a suit.
Good to see Seth back! good combination of views between these guys
That Randall and that crown stag bowie... whoo whee!
Hey DCA. I appreciate how articulate you are. One word-smith to another: maybe "idiosyncrasies" would make the point you were after better than "imperfections." Great video. Thanks.
Is there really anything better than the feel of a well made knife in the hand?
Definitely custom fixed blade curious.. just want start with how much I appreciate this video! As a former Boy Scout I definitely have a fondness for folders BUT I’ve definitely been thinking about adding a couple of fix blades to my collection.. that is of course after I get over my Spydie bug xD
I have a modest collection, mostly folders, but I've acquired a few fixed blades as well. My first custom fixed blade was made for me by James Alexander of J.D.'s Knives in Little Rock, Mississippi. My knowledge of knives, materials & what it took to actually create a knife was severely limited at the time - you might say I was absolutely & completely ignorant of it all. But I'm better now. James guided me through the process and sent me photos of various steps in the process. He really did a fine job, and the custom hunter he made for me is one of my favorite fixed blades. The last fixed blade I bought was a hand made Mini Kephart from Fire Creek Forge. A lot of love went into the making of that little blade, and it shows. You guys probably just made me spend more money on knives. I hope you're happy... :/
David & Seth this was a really great and informative video,thanks so much and thank you Thomas for the great camera work.
These dad and son videos are so heartwarming
Enjoyed the vid. I appreciate high quality and craftmanship in handmade fixed blade knives. I have several Randall's that I will gift to family when the time comes. I did have a chance to visit the Randall shop a couple of times and it was a real treat. Bo had just passed before my first visit but Mrs Bo (Ruth I think) was there in the 'showroom' part of the shop. The knife museum and the testimonials are worth the trip. Two letters from Ronald Reagan one when he was in the Army and the second on White House stationary thanking Bo for the knife catalog and the congratulatory note were on display in the museum.
These are beautiful works of art that I could easily see myself buying if I believed that there were good times ahead. There are bad storms coming. I'm buying accordingly.
Reality is that budget it always an issue but thanks to DCA & Seth at least we can have a look at what's out there. Have a great day.
I am a hardcore knife collector which means I am probably in good company... I started off my collection with a few tactical knives when I was a LEO, Blurs, a ZT 0200, 0770cf, etc. The addiction really took off when I got into woodworking and at my local Woodcraft store they had knife blanks. I made handles, taught myself to scrimshaw, and eventually started looking to learn how to make blades. I met a custom knife maker at a gun and knife show in Houston and started working on them since. I met Specer Aplin from STA Custom Knives and learned a lot about working the metal and materials to make a beautiful knife. I own two of his customs, a few of my creations and dozens of other knives. In fixed blades, the closest I have gotten to the custom feel from a mass produced knife is Lionsteel and Tops (for different reasons though). In folders, Viper all day long.... And Smith and Sons
Love it. I got into making knives myself a few years ago when a friend got me a gift certificate for a knife making course at a forge. Got to know a local master smith who has helped me with the metal side. I've only made a few and while not great it certainly is fun to do. What I have found more accessible - like you indicate - is buying knife blanks and doing the handles myself. Much easier to do at home and I can really shape the handles to suit me and use colours/ materials I like. Have a great day.
I own 2 Custom jobs- Shining Mountain, in the early 90's, made a limited batch of Bowie knives in 52-100 steel, Convex grind, walnut handle. Best Bowie I've ever owned..ive own many #2 Dude made me a 5 inch fixed blade from a leaf spring, red wood handle w/ black acrylic inlay...black liners under the scales...work of art !
Always a pleasure watching you gents pontificate about fixed blades. Not a big fan of them myself, but you got me very interested in a couple. Just picked up a couple of KATSU folders that you both should check out that brand. Let us know your thoughts
I only have two custom fixed blades, and both for different reasons.
I have a Chico, from Joe Loui Knives. I bought it because I'm a New Mexico native and Joey Cordova lives maybe 30 minutes from my hometown, and I wanted a piece of my home state. The knife itself is a little bruiser, but I do still carry it.
The second is a Bradshaw Pocket Scalpel, because I *had to have it.* My mom got me a wallet forever ago, from Hawaii, that was made of Koa wood. This little Pocket Scalpel happened to have Koa bolsters. It didn't hurt that the knife weighs half what the Chico does. And that was what tipped me into getting the Bradshaw.
Not a single mention of the sheats. To me, the sheat is a very important part of a fixed blade knife, particularly custom made knives.
I even didn't buy some knives because the sheat was bad.
Custom folders were a rare thing when I was getting serious about knives. The names like Randall, Loveless, Morseth, and Dan D. meant custom knife. Steels were D2, 440C, 154CM, and a the 1095 -like tool steels with the exception of Morseth who used a laminate. It makes me happy that the art of the fixed blade is still out there and still advancing. My latest acquisition is a tiny fixie made by hand by AriesEDC. I cuss myself every time I remember turning down a Randall Survival (17?) and buying a Benchmade CQC7. BTW for Seth: try Scout Carry brother. You probably have but try it again.
I love this series, part of me wishes it was more of a regular thing but then I do like it how yous just do it when yous have a topic yous reeeeeally want to do. Also, Seth... did you ever find that survival knife haha? Or just loads that werne't worth buying lmao
Doing a regular custom segment would be awesome.
I own one custom fixed blade: a Red/White/Blue edition Skinner from Haymaker customs. It's a small blade made out of hand-ground AEBL steel that's razor sharp! I absolutely love the elk antler and trustone handles and how they feel in hand. It was a pricy piece for sure, but it's one of a kind and definitely one of the highest quality knives in my collection.
I have come to appreciate an EDC fixed blade knife in the last few years. I currently use a production knife every day, a Muela Colibri with stag handles. Very beautiful, great feel in the hands. I will definitely have to look at some of what you have. Thanks for the demonstration.
First time I’ve wanted every knife on the table! I only have one hand made folder, but many hand made fixed blades. I did buy my son in law that wolverine for Christmas, he was pretty jacked about it. Many custom fixed blades I’ve been wanting.
Not sure about you but the next knife I purchase will be a small fixed blade from TM Hunt. This was in effect before this video. But let me see what KC has ATM 🤔
I have two Kellam blades that I turned into beautiful knives. A grandfather blade that I paired with a redwood burl handle and a 3.5” small puukko with a madrona handle. I use small puukko exclusively for carving. Great quality hand made carbon steel. Thanks 🔪🎸
Kellam made good blades and have good heat treats. Love redwood! Never seen madrone first hand but certainly looks nice. Should last you years. Have a great day.
Nothing beats my LT Wright knives. Indestructible!
This last year I got so much into custom fixed blades I've actually starting making custom knife scales recently.
My 3 favorite custom knife makers I recommend everyone check out are Arc and Iron Knives, New Edge Tool, and Deer Rock Knives.
I’m waiting for your first custom knife to get into them.
@@davidgarrett5671 I'm thinking about starting making knives again this winter. The scales project was kind of an excuse to maaaaaaybe buy a grinder this winter when I have a lot of time off...but I'm kinda digging just doing the scales for now. We'll see how I feel in a couple months.
@@arrowheadguys7637 just let me know.
My first good fixed blade was an L.T. Wright Genesis Scandi, and I loved it so much I bought more L.T. Wright knives. I have 3 now. they are just so good I didn't even notice anything else out there anymore. Really well made, and absolutely have a soul. That said, I do hold the rest of these makers in high esteem. T.M. Hunt would probably be my next buy if I didn't like those Jesse Jarosz knives so much... damn you KnifeCenter lol.
also I credit this channel and KnifeCenter for introducing me to Moki knives. I have the larger Kronos folder from them and it is without flaw as far as I can tell. The people who make those HAVE to care for it to make it so nice.
You guys ever consider carrying Anza Knives? Hand made by Charlie Davis out of annealed carbon file steel and absolutely beautiful.
I have 6 and there are a hidden gem!! Sharpest knives I have in my collection !!
And very unique
I have an ANZ Boddington. Absolutely no complaints. Is a good general field/camp knife. Little bit of maintenance because of the steel but nothing a small amount of oil can't fix. Pricing not too bad either. Has a really good handmade vibe and good ergos. ANZA have a reasonably wide range so worth a look for those wanting a reasonably priced 'custom'. Have a great day.
Some great insights here - thanks for sharing some of your collections. Love that Jesse Jarosz Mission - the detailing is insane.
I have a handmade 10” chef’s knife from Thomas Haslinger in S30V with carbon scales. It’s one of the most beautiful things I own and brings me joy every time I use it. Saved up for months to afford it and I regret none of that abstention. Same is true for my handmade khukuri from Kailash - what a beautiful thing to use.
And I had Stuart Mitchell in Sheffield make me a (kinda) deba and a sgian-dubh to my own designs and there’s just something magical about being part of that process and knowing that nobody anywhere has anything the same.
That's the one thing most people don't understand. Is the geometry of the blade, or more specifically the edge. Has more impact on edge retention than the steel used, or even the heat treat. Assuming that quality steel was used, and it was heat treated properly.
I mean you can't grab junk steel and do a crap job on the heat, but if good steel like 1095 or even aus8 is used and the heat treat is done right. With the right geometry. It'll hold an edge just as long or longer than any "super steel" that doesn't have the right edge geometry for the way YOU use the knife.
Unfortunately I'm not that good at sharpening. So i can't play around and find the just right edge for my use.
Beauty!!!! God bless the works of the hands. God bless all you all at knife center. 🤠
Love me some fixed blades, especially custom stuff. Lishen is my favorite maker
Thanks, guys, for the share. Completely agree that establishing relationships with custom makers, as well as appreciating the differences in expertise, is an extremely satisfying segment of the hobby. Luv Kyle Daily's file work, Randall's timeless design and quality, and Denis Tyrell (and others) damascus pattern forging capabilities.
Thanks for the kinds words about the filework!
A. I LOVE fixed blades. Thus: B. I throughly enjoy these focused videos. And: C. Congrats Seth, you seem to have found a decent Barber. (jk)
Learning to love this kind of blade lately, the personalised character rather than an identical mass produced clone, many have an old fashioned rustic feel and are beautiful 🔪🔪😎✌️✌️
Howdy folks! Well I have more fixed blades than I will ever use but can’t stop collecting…love folders and have bunch but fixed custom are a addiction. Highly recommend attending Blade Show to see how amazing they can be! Saddle up!
Glad to see SEth is still around. Cheers guys.!
GNS Saber grind is one of the best fixed blade knives I've ever held or used. It batons like a much bigger blade. Feathers beautifully and retains value. I love that Gen 3. I have a luminous 5. It's literally indestructible.
Glad to see fixed blades getting some lovin'. Just me - when I get a custom folder I tend to want to put it away and not use it; whereas when I get a custom fixed blade I just want to get outside and use it. OMHO but I think there's better value in a custom fixed blade because they don't have to spend so much time on an opening & locking mechanism. Like DCA indicated, for me the magic is in the handle because you can shape a handle much better by hand than by mass production machine. I know they can cost $$$ but look around as their are some great small batch makers out there. Sharp blades all.
That Craig Camerer is the most beautiful knife I’ve ever seen!
I got a few different handmade fixed blades. Classy and unique!
Great topic! So glad you covered it! Fixed blades are my thing. Michigan makers might be my favs. With Jim Behring topping my list. His son is just as good. Hess knives (former Marbles shop guy) Gary M. Schiller, love White River,Bark River, LT Wright, Blind Horse, Battle Horse, Morris, Peregrine Forge, Mike Irie, Zoe Crist.
Also really like older Randalls.I really enjoy the Wolverine knife Collectors show in Michigan where you can meet the makers & buy their stuff or order customs. Theres a show in Dundee this Nov.
David Thomas and Seth, this video touched me. I have several (Semi custom knives) in my collection. But I'm not sure of the definition. Small batch, individually made by one person, handmade meaning basic hand tools? Where do you draw the line in the definition of a custom knife? Good video and some beautiful knives. Thanks
I have a couple knives from Big Chris, and hopefully I’ll get the chance to own a few more in the future. I absolutely love them! Even my 5 year old daughter thinks they’re the most beautiful, and most fun to use, in my collection. Hefty price tag for sure, but I’d much rather do business with a great guy making cool stuff right here in the USA. Not to mention, if cared for properly, I will be able to pass them down to her when I’m gone.
Great choice. Awesome maker. Big Chris - respect. Spoke to him at a blade show a few years ago - really nice approachable guy. Have a great day.
Most of these don't appeal to me at all, but I do like the K.H. Daily pair and the Merlin and Mission are nice too.
But I'm not a collector, more of an accumulator... Well, OK, I like that puko too.
I don't see fixed blades, at least in the lower price range, being cheaper than folders. And that annoys me; lots less machining, parts and labor involved, yet the prices don't reflect that.
I was told Randell was making knives for fellow soldiers in Vietnam and he has my respect for it. I bought a Gerber Australian Bowie when I was in the army. So needless to say I'm fond of USA made. But at this point I am looking to add some Japanese made knives to my budding collection. My feeling is that some if not most of the custom knives made there have a fit and finish that is second to none. What do you carry and suggestions?
I drooled my way through this episode.
Hey DCA does your phone have a Dial Up sound ringtone? I have heard the old modem sound in couple of videos and it stopes as soon as you reach into your pocket! If that is your ringtone, it’s awesome just like all the videos you make.
Howdy Knife center, great video and content. Got my fair share of fixed blades, 4 that I've done myself. All just regular steel. It won't perform until it's in my hand. I do believe the "intimacy and intimate" were the needed verbage. Like you said there hands-on in its face creating it. Then it's passed to the user for the same reason. Ooohhh it feels so good. Thank you for your effort and the video.
That Randell is so beautiful.
Hi DCA and Seth, great stuff as always. I have what might be a big ask/challenge, but I'd really like to see if you can come up with a selection of knives that fill this niche.
98% of all the knives I can find (fixed blade or folder) have some combination of either G10/Fiberglass/Plastic/etc, Wood/Bone/Horn/etc, or Metal/Steel/Titanium/Etc. Most of them are black or grey, or some pattern that makes them look either tactical, hunting, or like what someone would get when they want to cosplay as John Wick when going to the supermarket.
I use knives pretty regularly - lots of the time for cutting straps, breaking down boxes, or the little daily tasks that are just made a little easier with a knife. My problem is that I'd like something that is pleasant to use and hold, but I'm not trying to pretend that I'm going to need to suddenly defend myself from a wave of attackers or baton logs in order to survive in the wilderness.
Looking through your site, there are a few knives that use Ultem (PEI) as a handle material, and one or two shaving razors that use an attractive abalone or shell pattern - but I'd really like a knife that takes itself a little less seriously while still offering a premium steel (S35/S45/M390/etc). I'm thinking like some of the designs you see on upscale Italian fountain pens - crushed resin, layered resin, ebonite, urushi, etc.
tl;dr are there any knives with a premium steel, good construction, and fun handle material/design? (You can reference the Leonardo Momento Zero Fountain Pen, the Pelikan m800, or the Pilot Urushi). If there are any options available, I'd love to see some different takes/price points.
Thanks.
I WANT CUSTOM FIXED BLADES NOW!! 😆
LMAO
Hi David & Seth! You guys definitely have awesome fixed blades!
I have several customs. I tried to EDC a couple. It was disappointing. Natural bone handle broke. Damascus blades that wouldn't hold an edge, and some had a poor grind to start with. I stick with production blades for EDC now, my current is the Buck Alpha Hunter. My customs are safe queens. I wear a 2XL glove. I've ordered customs that have a handle for a med to maybe lg hand. It's disappointing.
My custom fixed blades are my fav in my collection.
My first fixed blade I bought was an Anza knife. A guy would pull up next to my job(shipyard in San Diego)and place all his knives on a leather mat on the floor.
I bought my first custom knife and just appreciate the detail and uniqueness of this fix blade. Unfortunately my heart wants to write checks that my wallet cant cash and it will be awhile before I buy another.
I'm custom curious. What I really want is a custom made fixed blade that fills the same role as the Spyderco Waterway. A handle anything in the fishing role kind of knife with materials more or less impervious to the conditions. I'd love to see a custom take on this.
I have a couple custom fixed blades from Wyatt Hines . Hes a amazing custom maker out of Nevada.
Does my Blackjack 1-7 and my Blackjack Jet Pilot qualify?
Maybe I totally missed it, but what's the price point for the last knife( Kellam Puukko) & what are the specs, as in blade & handle dimensions? Or at least in contrast to David's Slightly Larger Than Average Hands (😁) in particular, could give me a good idea of its actual size. Somewhat objectively, at least...
There’s a link in the description of the video that will take you to it on the site.
Rather than Imperfections it’s “Unique Nuances”
"character"
Beautiful knives, you guys are my people.
You showed my all time favorite, Randall # 1, 23 years in the Army Infantry never let me down, Rangers Lead The Way.
I love knives all around, and good quality knives are great, but when it comes to customs, the more the price, the more hesitant I would be to use it. Plus, I can't afford much. On that note, are there any good custom knives that are under $200, preferably under $100? In sure not, but you guys would know. So help me out, please, and thank you.
Good to see Seth of the Wild Hair!
Fixed blade customs got me into this world.
There’s even more custom things offered from LT Wright in their Pout House forum. Halloween is coming and this years theme is… Godzilla!
Winkler is notably absent. I absolutely LOVE their knives.
Seth V's hair needs a whole KnifeCenter episode of its own!
There's a term in Japanese for beauty in imperfection. It is Wabi Sabi.
Thank you. That exactly sums up the appeal of custom blades. Have a great day.
I make my own custom fixed blades. There is nothing like using something that you made with your own hands.
I’ll second that. The only downside is that my teenage son keeps asking for replicas of weird video game knives lol
If a knife or any product for that matter isn't made to order for the customer. Either to tailored to fit them or with their own personal input on the end product. It isn't custom made
malanika, try them!
the DBK boys put me on to them
What would be the difference between hand made and custom? Not sure if I agree about the best knife being a fixed blade it just depends on your circumstances and needs 😎
Seth-Vee up in the hizz-OUSE!!! 🤙🏻
I've got a Randall my dad got back in the day. And we've beaten the shit out of it for the last 30 years. We had no clue what it was worth until like last year 😂😂 now we regret treating it like we have lol
I think the word you are looking instead of imperfection is "character".
I love knives and only recently opened up to fixed blades after my uncle got me a TOPS and Birddog.. Wow, fantastic blades.
This was really informative and I wanted to say you two have the best format ever.. I love BladeHQ too as a place to buy knives, but their live action knife stuff is not up to this standard.
DCA and Tomas know the blades and study them ahead of reviewing.. seems like common sense no? Yeah BHQ gets the specs right like half the time and can never seem to throw together a good review.
After Zac left, their knife reviews plummeted.
Great! I'd love to have a few custom knives, as long as they keep the price under $100! Oh, well--I guess I'm stuck with Cold Steel.
I’m so excited
Where is the Nordsmith fixed blades?
Fill me in why Bark River is never mentioned?
I like these guys.
@29:52 we (in Poland, that is) say 'Yarosh'
But, he's name is Americanised, so there's that.
Unless Im totally misunderstanding you, poignant is not the word you were looking for (it means makes you really sad or full of regret, which is not the sense of getting you get from fixed blades)
Custon knives have caricature not imperfections , that's doesent mean flaws
🤗 nice vid!
I like your videos. A lot of great information. But the background music is distracting.
They don’t have a professional studio so the music is to cover the background noise such as the air conditioning.
he mightve made the pins, custom makers often make their own pins and even screws.
Oh great. I just collected about 40 folders. Then I bought a Casström Lars Fält fixed blade. Now I want custom fixed blades. I’m doomed 😮
"Less soul and artistry in it", yeah! It's called the uncanny valley!
Seth reminds me of
Napoleon Dynamite
A custom “little vicky” paring knife would tickle my fancy
Seth-Vee 🤙🏻
Definitely custom curious.
I can tell that Seth is "investing" in blades because he doesn't have $20 extra for a haircut, or even a comb!!! lol