Forged Camp Knife with Curly Koa

Product Description for Forged Camp Knife with Curly Koa

Maker: Jan Vaterlaus, J.S. (click to see more by this maker)
Item num: 113632
** This is handmade and one-of-a-kind **
Blade length: 6.50 in.
Cutting edge length: 6.30 in.
Total length: 11.00 in.
Blade height (at heel): 1.37 in.
Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.14 in.
Blade thickness (at midpoint): 0.10 in.
Blade thickness (near tip): 0.02 in.
Item weight: 8.40 oz.
Blade: Hand forged 52100 carbon steel with a hand rubbed satin finish
Bolster: 416 stainless steel
Handle: Stabilized curly koa
Description: Journeyman Smith Jan Vaterlaus (b.1963) is an Idaho knifemaker known for forging durable, high-performance knives built for extreme outdoor use. Inspired by the rugged wilderness of his home state and his experience as a hunting guide in Alaska, Jan crafts blades with a focus on reliability, longevity, and natural materials. His pursuit of perfection led him to train under ABS Mastersmith Jim Crowell. Jan’s knives are proven hard-use tools — one is even credited with saving a biologist’s life during a grizzly attack. They embody his philosophy of creating knives that excel in the harshest conditions. Jan achieved his Journeyman Smith ranking in June of 2025.
The drop point blade is hand forged 52100 carbon steel and features a meticulous hand rubbed satin finish. 52100 carbon steel is considered by many knifemakers and users to be among the very best steels used in high end knives. The blade is flat ground and razor sharp. It combines exceptional edge holding with durability and ease of sharpening. Jan's touchmark is engraved on the left side of the blade.
The handle is hand contoured curly koa wood (acacia koa). This stabilized wood is only found on the Hawaiian Islands and is one of the most desired woods used in knifemaking. Its highly chatoyant curly figure is unrivaled. Hunter Green G-10 liners assist the handle to adjust to temperature and humidity changes. The 416 stainless steel guard seals the front of the handle.
Excellent work throughout!


Availability: Not currently available