Drop Point Hunter with Amboyna Burl - W2 - Journeyman Smith Test Knife

Product Description for Drop Point Hunter with Amboyna Burl - W2 - Journeyman Smith Test Knife

Maker: PJ Gouws (click to see more by this maker)
Price: $295.00
Item num: 112713
** This is handmade and one-of-a-kind **
Blade length: 4.40 in.
Cutting edge length: 4.20 in.
Total length: 9.20 in.
Blade height (at heel): 0.94 in.
Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.17 in.
Blade thickness (at midpoint): 0.15 in.
Blade thickness (near tip): 0.06 in.
Item weight: 4.00 oz.
Shipment weight: 14.2 oz.
Blade: Hand forged W2 carbon steel with a hand rubbed satin finish
Bolster: Bronze
Handle: Amboyna burl with alternating black fiber and bronze spacers
Sheath: Hand stitched leather sheath
Description: Journeyman Smith P J Gouws (b.1983) is a rising South African knifemaker known for his beautifully forged carbon steel and damascus blades. After making his first knife in 2022, he quickly earned his ABS Journeyman Smith rating in 2025 under the mentorship of Mastersmith Neels van den Berg at Black Dragon Forge. PJ spends much of his time forging damascus alongside Neels, blending meticulous craftsmanship with a passion for design. A former finance professional from Johannesburg, his unexpected path into knifemaking reflects both dedication and a love for creating with his hands. His work is defined by refined fit and finish and an organic flow in his handle designs, making each piece a reflection of his journey and the vibrant community that shaped it.
This hunting knife was part of PJ's JS test set. When a maker 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.
The blade is hand forged W2 carbon steel. W2 carbon steel is highly revered for its ability to hold an excellent edge, coupled with good toughness and chip resistance. A differential finish can be seen traveling along the blade, separating the ultra-hard cutting edge from a softer, more resilient spine. A hand rubbed satin finish adds an heirloom quality to the blade. P.J.'s touchmark is on the left side of the blade. Because the blade is forged from carbon steel, we recommend using camellia oil to protect the blade and wood handle.
The handle is stabilized amboyna burl, hand contoured to provide a comfortable grip. Amboyna burl is one of the most desirable woods used in knifemaking. It is well known for its beautiful swirling figure and desirable reddish tones. The front of the handle is sealed with a bronze bolster. Alternating black fiber and bronze spacers finish the handle.
A hand stitched leather sheath made by Ben Moodie of South Africa is included.
Excellent work throughout!


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