Hunter/Utility (Model L) with Red Bushwillow and Maple Burl

Product Description for Hunter/Utility (Model L) with Red Bushwillow and Maple Burl

Maker: Stuart Smith, J.S. (click to see more by this maker)
Item num: 101501
*** This is handmade and one-of-a-kind ***
Blade length: 4.20 in.
Cutting edge length: 3.90 in.
Total length: 9.25 in.
Blade height (at heel): 1.05 in.
Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.15 in.
Blade thickness (at midpoint): 0.15 in.
Blade thickness (near tip): 0.60 in.
Item weight: 6.00 oz.
Shipment weight: 7.6 oz.
Blade: Satin finished 75Cr1 tool steel
Bolster: Brass
Handle: Red bushwillow and maple burl
Sheath: Nordic style leather sheath
Description: Getting to meet bladesmith Stuart Smith is always a highlight of my trips to South Africa. Smith began making knives in 2000 after he took a class with Mastersmith Kevin Harvey. Stuart was immediately hooked and quit his job working as a salesman by 2004. Only a few years after that, in 2009, Stuart began teaching classes of his own. Among his many students is Neels van den Berg. Stuart has been very active over the years in the Southern African Bladesmiths Association (SABA) and the Knifemakers Guild of Southern Africa (KGSA). Stuart became a Journeyman Smith in June 2019.
The satin finished blade is 75Cr1 tool steel. This German-made carbon steel is very similar to 1075 carbon steel with additional chromium added to achieve a higher hardness. The result is a long lasting edge that can be easily sharpened to razor sharpness! The right ricasso features Stuart's maker mark.
The handle is hand contoured from red bushwillow (Combretum apiculatum). Red Bushwillow is native to the mesic to semi-arid savanna regions of Africa, southwards of the equator. A maple burl spacer provides contrast to the dark toned bushwillow. Brass and black fiber spacers assist the handle adjust to humidity and temperature changes. A brass bolster completes the handle.
To protect the knife during transportation, a traditional Nordic leather sheath is included.
Excellent work throughout!


Availability: Not currently available