Forest Ant Hunter with Elm Burl - 80CrV2 - (Journeyman Smith Test Knife)

Product Description for Forest Ant Hunter with Elm Burl - 80CrV2 - (Journeyman Smith Test Knife)

Maker: Willie van der Merwe (Ant Knives), J.S. (click to see more by this maker)
Price: $495.00
Item num: 112684
** This is handmade and one-of-a-kind **
Blade length: 4.90 in.
Cutting edge length: 4.50 in.
Total length: 9.50 in.
Blade height (at heel): 1.04 in.
Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.14 in.
Blade thickness (at midpoint): 0.12 in.
Blade thickness (near tip): 0.04 in.
Item weight: 4.80 oz.
Shipment weight: 16.8 oz.
Blade: Hand forged 80CrV2 carbon steel with a hand rubbed satin finish
Bolster: Polished 303 stainless steel
Handle: Stabilized elm burl
Sheath: Pouch style leather custom sheath
Description: South African knifemaker Willie van der Merwe has had a passion for knives for all his life, but didn’t start making knives until just after his retirement in 2016. He attended courses with some of the best knifemakers in South Africa and was soon making truly exceptional knives. Willie achieved Journeyman ranking with the American Bladesmith Society in June of 2025. This hunting knife shows his exceptional skills as a knifemaker. This knife was part of Willie's Journeyman test set.
When a knifemaker tests to become a journeyman, they create five knives that are the height of their work. These five knives are then judged by established masters to determine if the maker's work is up to snuff. Often, prospective journeymen spend 2-3 times as long creating these five knives as they would generally do, as they know that their work will be poured over by the masters. These five knives are generally considered to be among the most collectable knives of a maker's career.
This Forest Ant Hunter is an exceptional daily companion. The slim-profiled knife will be easy to keep close by, yet will have plenty of cutting power. From the hand forged, premium steel selected to the presentation grade elm burl handle, this knife will easily be a prized addition to any serious collection or your favorite companion while out in the field.
The drop point blade was forged to shape from 80CrV2 carbon steel and features a meticulous hand rubbed satin finish. 80CrV2 carbon steel is tough, highly chip resistant, and maintains excellent edge holding. The blade is flat ground and razor sharp. Willie's touchmark is on the left side of the blade.
The hand contoured stabilized elb burl handle provides a perfect grip.
To keep the knife close at hand, a pouch style leather custom sheath is included. The sheath may be removed from the belt loop which allows it to be removed from your belt without taking your belt off or if a smaller profile is desired, it can be carried in a pocket or bag.
Excellent work throughout!


Availability: In stock. Usually ships in 1-2 business days