Kingwood Hunter (JS Test Knife)

Product Description for Kingwood Hunter (JS Test Knife)

Maker: Aaron Wilburn, M.S. (Wilburn Forge) (click to see more by this maker)
Item num: 87476
*** This is handmade and one-of-a-kind ***
Blade length: 4.70 in.
Total length: 9.60 in.
Blade height (at heel): 1.15 in.
Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.17 in.
Item weight: 6.25 oz.
Shipment weight: 9.36 oz.
Blade: Hand forged 52100 carbon steel with a low temp triple quench and double temper for high performance edge retention
Bolster: Nickel silver
Handle: Carved kingwood
Sheath: Pouch style leather sheath
Description: Aaron Wilburn was honored as a ABS Journeyman Smith in June of 2009. When a maker tests to become a journeyman, they create five knives that are the height of their work at the time. 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 is one Aaron's five JS presentation knives.
This dramatic hunter shows the influence of knives by Mastersmith Ed Fowler, with the recurved, deep bellied blade shape.
The long, clip point blade was differentially heat treated, bringing the edge to critical temperature then oil quenching three times. Many thermal cycles and normalizing steps assure consistent grain structure. The blade was then tempered at 400 degrees twice, for exceptional durability. A cryogenic treatment between tempers enhances the edge holding ability.
The blade was forged to shape from 52100 carbon steel. Many makers and collectors feel that this is the best steel available anywhere for use as a knife blade.
The solid kingwood handle has been carved for a very comfortable grip -- swelling at the palm and toward the rear. Thin, black fiber spacers assist the handle to adjust to temperature and humidity changes. The handle feels so natural in the hand, you’ll have a hard time putting it down. A serious field knife for the avid hunter or collector.
The knife is accompanied by a hand stitched pouch style leather sheath.
Excellent fit and finish throughout.


Availability: Not currently available