Carbon River Utility with Koa and Box Elder
Mastersmith Test Knife

Product Description for Carbon River Utility with Koa and Box Elder
Mastersmith Test Knife

Maker: Michael Rader, M.S. (click to see more by this maker)
Item num: 88072
*** This is handmade and one-of-a-kind ***
Blade length: 4.90 in.
Total length: 9.65 in.
Blade height (at heel): 1.05 in.
Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.15 in.
Item weight: 4.00 oz.
Shipment weight: 6 oz.
Blade: Hand forged, satin finished 52100 carbon steel
Bolster: Integral 52100 carbon steel
Handle: Stabilized exhibition grade curly koa with box elder burl accents
Description: Coming back from the Blade Show with mastersmith test knives is one of my great highlights of the year. In 2010, two new mastersmiths joined the ranks. Five knives were made by each applicant -- the height of their work. These knives were judged by ABS mastersmiths on fit and finish, as well as general artistry. The standards are exacting. Michael Rader's Carbon River Utility is one of the knives that he chose to represent his work in this prestigious test. This knife has been in a private collection since it was made. It has never been used to cut and is in new condition. By all appearances, Rader could have made this knife yesterday.
This integral utility knife was hand forged from 52100 carbon steel. 52100 is considered by many knifemakers and collectors to be among the best -- if not the best -- carbon steels for edge holding. A hand rubbed satin finish lends an heirloom quality.
The bolster is integral -- a technique that, while common in production knives, is very rare in handmade knives due to the difficulty of implementation. The resulting knife is extremely durable and dramatic. The handle is formed from exhibition grade curly koa with box elder burl accents. The woods are meticulously combined with the seams beyond perception. By using stabilized woods, Michael is able to combine the beauty of natural wood with durability. The knife has perfect balance and feels exceptional in the hand. Exceptional work throughout.
The knife is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Michael noting it to be among his Mastersmith Test Knives.


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