Maker: Aaron Wilburn (Wilburn Forge) (click to see more by this maker)
Item num: 88812
*** This is handmade and one-of-a-kind ***
Blade length: 12.00 in.
Total length: 18.00 in.
Blade width: 1.90 in.
Blade thickness: 0.23 in.
Item weight: 21.84 oz.
Shipment weight: 33.52 oz.
Blade: Hand forged 52100 carbon steel
Bolster: Integral
Handle: Carved desert ironwood with stainless steel pins and lanyard hole
Sheath: Paul Long inspired stamped leather sheath with deer skin lining
Description: Aaron Wilburn, who was honored as a ABS Journeyman Smith in June of 2009, creates knives that mean business and this chopper is a great example of his work.
After attending a seminar lead by Mastersmith Joe Keesler on rasp knives, Aaron was immediately inspired. This knife was forged in the style of an early American rasp knife. In colonial America, coming by quality steel was quite difficult and reusing good steel was required. When a horse rasp wore out, it was quickly ground or forged into a new knife.
Here, Aaron began by forging 52100 carbon steel into the shape of a rasp knife. The integral choil is nicely rounded for an extremely comfortable grip. Many makers and collectors feel that 52100 is the best steel available anywhere for use as a knife blade. The blade was differentially heat treated, bringing the edge to critical temperature then oil quenching three times. Many thermal cycles and normalizing steps assure consistent grain structure. The blade was then tempered at 400 degrees twice, for exceptional durability. A cryogenic treatment between tempers enhances the edge holding ability. Perfect for breaking new ground in wild territory!
The solid desert ironwood handle has been carved for a very comfortable grip -- swelling at the palm and toward the rear. Red fiber spacers assist the ironwood scales to adjust to temperature and humidity changes. Three stainless steel pins and a lanyard hole complete the piece. A serious field knife for the avid outdoorsman or collector. The knife is accompanied by a hand stitched pouch style leather sheath. Excellent fit and finish throughout.
Availability: Not currently available