The Gift !!!!!!

[greybark]

Six months ago while at archery practice at the local club a new couple showed up , him with an older compound and his wife with a brand new one . After hellos he stated "you don`t remember me do you " He then stated his name was Jeff and then it came back to me . Over 25 years ago while bowhunting in Rock Ck I would bump into Jeff and his Dad "Ernie" and thoughly enjoyed their company . He further stated that I sold him the bow that he now carried 25 years ago . Well after shooting our small 3-D course with a bunch of Tradies I suggested they try the Club`s youth longbows . Some what unsure they gave it a try and never touched their bows again . Soon Jeff ended up with a "Vlad" longbow and his Wife "C" had a second hand "Check-Mate Raven" recurve .
All summer they practised each day and twice on Sat & Sun and in the process dragged me out . It was a joy mentering these two and the results of these sessions were evident with several first place finishes including the recent Abby Indoor .
After one of our practice sessions Jeff stated that I probably was not aware that he was a Custom Knife maker and He and Cassandra wanted to make me a knife of my choice . After reviewing his web site I realised this was to be something very special , in particular since He welcomed my input .
The following will be a series of posts with some of the detail involved in the making of "The Gift".

[Whonnock Boy]

Great story! Looking forward to the rest.

[markomoose]

HOLY COW GREYBARK!! How can you be a junior member with a story like this!That is too cool!!

[kagia]

Oh man...
Great story. I love knives. Especially customs!
What kind of knife will it be? Any particular features you'll be asking for?

[lip_ripper00]

Good on you GB, you have always been a class act. I am not a bowhunter ..... but I think their is still time.

[greybark]

There were three " Planning Stages" , each after range practice sessions . The first two were general discussions of past experiences we had with hunting knives and in particular focused on a Puma Trapper`s Companion that I had for 53 years and dearly loved . It would be hard to retire but earned it`s place in my Trophy cabinate .
The third session`s ideas were firmed up with Jeff sketching to scale "The Gift" on his design pad .
These sessions plyed with appropiate beverages soon demonstrated the Jeff and I had very similar ideas on what consisted of a good knife and Cassandra`s critiques rounded all .
Generally we did not want the "utillity" knife look but dwelled on an old fashioned and functional design . To be sure I`m not a knife maker but with my out of the box thinking coupled with Jeffs expertise and extensive knowledge resulted in a functional working form of art .
The Gift is truly gorgeous and special.... you wil see . LOL

[J_T]

Way to go Grey. And thanks for telling 'one' of your generous stories. I always knew, all the work you do for young people and for the lifestyle of archery would at some point turn around and bring you good fortune. If not in re-acquainted friends, in the form of a custom knife.

Well done.

[greybark]

OK , still unable to sleep with this on my mind .
Points we considered ,
Primary purpose of the knife would be Camp and General use with good Field dressing , boning out and cutting Game capabilities. And look good on the 3-D circuit LOL.
The handle (scales) would be highly figured local Maple Burls and engineered for hardness and durability.
The knife sheath would be functional with plain leather and would low slung the knife slightly below belt level for easier access and in conjunction with the knife have a "Leather Lock" anti- loss system.
Healthy Brass front and rear Bolsters were a must and matched the caramel colour od the scales and contrasted nicely with the stainless steel blade .
Cheers for now.......Have a bit of patience as pics will follow .

[BiG Boar]

Looking forward to knife pics

[greybark]

The Gift , a description that is taken off the "Certificate of Authenticity" .
Type : Hunter
Model : Greybark`s Bowhunter (named after the design founder) and stenciled on the blade
Blade Length : 4-1/4 in ( 10.8 cm)
Overall Lenght : 8-7/8 in (22.5 cm )
Blade Thickness : 1/8 in (3.0 mm)
Weight : 9.0 oz (255g)
Sheath Weight: 3.8 oz (108g)
Blade Steel : CPM154 High Chromium Martensitic Stainles Steel hardened and twice tempered to Rockwell C60 and polished finishes
Bolsters : Brass
Handle : Spaulted Maple Burl with Black Spacers
Sheath : Hand-stiched leather .

Just a note on the blade steel , CPM is a process that enable carbides ( the scourge of top grade steels) to be further broken down by forcing the molten steel thru minute
nozzles at high pressure where it transforms into a fine powder that is then compressed into solid steel . CPM154 is considered one of the finest steels for Knives and Tool applications .
AND it`s in my knife !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yahooeeeee...
Cheers and pics to-night when I get help LOL.

[BiG Boar]

3cm thick! More like an axe!

[greybark]

3cm thick! More like an axe!
At least I got the 1/8 inright lol.
Amended...

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/1Roughcut.jpg
http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/1Roughcut-1.jpg
OK got some help and this is the first pic which shows the rough cut out of the knife from the flat bar stock..which is quite workable now....

Cheers for now...

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/3knifeprofile-1.jpg

Profiling finished
http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/4MarkingFrontBolster.jpg?t=1392171680

Centerpunching for the Front Bolster Pins

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/5MarkingbroaheadwrenckonrearBolster.jpg?t=13921719 42

Marking Rear Bolster Pins and Broadhead Wrench ..

[BiG Boar]

Cool build along. I look forward to watching how this project shapes up.

[seatoskymiles]

Nice, looking forward too this build

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/index_finger_file_work.jpg?t=1392174202

A requirment for every hunting knife. Your guess ?

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/Start_of_hand_filed_bevel.jpg?t=1392168922

Instead of using a forge to heat and shape the blade, Jeff files the stock bar to the knifes specifications. Just imagine the amout of steel removed by hand with a file .
Well off to archery practice and may post the next pic depending on how many quarters Jeff wins from me.
Cheers for now

["No Choke"Lord Walsingham]

A fantastic thread Sir!

The Gift is surely well deserved. It's fantastic to come to this site and see such things. As are all others, I too am looking forward to reading the rest of your story and seeing the finished product.

[BiG Boar]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/index_finger_file_work.jpg?t=1392174202

A requirment for every hunting knife. Your guess ?

bone saw? finger grips? kill tally score card? I have no idea what those jagged things on the back of hunting knives are actually used for.

[barehunter]

I love this thread and can't wait to see the finished knife!

[Mikey Rafiki]

...........

[greybark]

The serrations retain just enough of an edge to engage the softer metal of damn bottle caps that dont screw off . LOL . Upon the knifes completion this was the first task assigned and it passed with flying colors . Again and again !!!!! LOL
Pics in a moment .....
Cheers

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/Wrapping_with_stainless_foil.jpg

The knife blank is now filed and polished to clean up prior to encasing in an envelop of heavy stainless foil in prepartion for the "hardening" process.
Cheers for now as I am uncertain on posting multiple pics . LOL

[BiG Boar]

Coming along just great!

[hunter fisher]

enjoying following this process!

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/Pressing_folds.jpg

This pic demonstrates the thickness of the stainless foil and the importance of getting an air tight seal via the use of a hammer and flat punch . This is a critical stage because the very low carbon content in the steel would bleed off during the hardening process and is retained via the envelop.
Some good stuff coming , Cheers

[Elkaddict]

Karma, a fantastic phenomenon. It obviously works. Congratulations Greybark, looking forward to seeing .....the rest of the story.

[albravo2]

brilliant thread, thanks for posting.

very happy to see you getting some return for what you've invested into the bow community over the years. Karma.

[Jim Prawn]

The serrations retain just enough of an edge to engage the softer metal of damn bottle caps that dont screw off . LOL . Upon the knifes completion this was the first task assigned and it passed with flying colors . Again and again !!!!! LOL
Pics in a moment .....
Cheers

Aha! Cant wait to try mine out know that I know what there used for! Great thread, can't wait to see the finished product.
JP

[greybark]

Under the last pic of the wrapped knife I forgot to include that the stainless steel foil also prevented scale from forming . Any such scale would also end up with the same hardness as the blade steel and hard to clean and polish.... Some Bladesmiths place a small piece of paper near the handle end which when in the forge ignites and purges the oxygen inside the foil ...
Cheers for now and pics in the morn.....

[island6]

Great thread except now I won't be able to sleep, can't wait to see more of the process. And it's awesome to see friends meet back up like you two did.

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/ThethreekniveforMehimandhisWife.jpg

OK , the initial hardening process is called Austenitizeing and the wrapped blade is placed in electric forge at a temp of 2000 F for a period of one hour .
Basicly Austenitizeing causes a chrystal change fro Ferrite to Austenite and is a specific amount of carbon left in the steel is controlled by heat and duration tables. Hence the 2000F for one hour thingy .
Three blades in there now are one for Jeff and one for Cassandra and one in mine ....
The result of this is a very hard and brittle blade.
Ahhhhh , the intrigue is building up. LOL.

[BiG Boar]

What will be the main purpose of this knife.

[seatoskymiles]

Hopefully to use it in the field

[greybark]

Hey Big Boar , the Hunter design is usualy a camp and field knive and this one will be just a basic carry around , and look good on the 3-D circuit . LOL . The old Puma Trappers Companion was a hunter design which served me well for 53 years . There are a few design points on the new knife that are very functional and one that i`ve not seen or heard of on any knife but is quite a remarkable feature .
Cheers for now and appreciate your interest .
Will you be at the Cloverdale 3-d ? If so you are welcome to check it out .

[BiG Boar]

What time does the last shooter go through on Saturday? Maybe I can make it Sunday. I'd like to go either way.

[greybark]

Hey Big Boar , last sign up is around 2:00 on Sun and may be a bit later on Sat .
Cheers

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/quenching.jpg

Why quench ? The steel now is very hard and brittel . To bring the hardness down to a workable and functionable level the controlled rapid removal of heat causes a molecule rearangement that happens quickly leaves you with the "martenistic" steel . Named after a German LOL.
There are several ways of quenching .
Jeff`s method is quicky removing the wrapped blade from the forge (or electric kiln) and clamping them between two billets of aluminum for five minutes .The aluminum draws out the heat in a quick and controlled fashion .
Two similar "tempering "phases follow once again in accord with heat and time tables to ensure the exact rockwell hardness rating.
OK , I`m off the the 3-D Indoor shoot in Cloverdale and absolutly will be wearing this "Gift".
Cheers for now.

[jeff341]

Great post!

Thanks for sharing.

[kagia]

Lookin good.
Can't wait to see the end result.

["No Choke"Lord Walsingham]

"The Gift" is coming along very nicely Sir!

To those wondering what the serrations upon the knifes spine actually are - They have nothing to do with cutting seatbelts nor anything else for that matter. While some may be adapted for use as a bottle opener, the actual purpose is to allow for greater control of the tip for making precision cuts such as those required while caping an animal. The technical term for these grip improving serrations is jimping.

[greybark]

Hey "No Choke "Lord Walsingham , that is a great post and thanks for your interest.

[Mikey Rafiki]

...........

[BlacktailStalker]

This is very cool.

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/removing_from_foil_wrap-1.jpg

The hardening is now done and Jeff using metal shears opens the wrap and removes the knife .
The outline of the knife can be seen while in the wrap.
To go back a bit to the quenching with the aluminum billets prevents any tendency to distort .
Alright one more pic (later on ) and Jeff gets into the build phase....

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/beveled.jpg,

Hey were moving on quite well in spite of me not knowing how to post multple pics. So the hardening and two tempering stages have been done . Now the blade is systematicly polished using finer and finer abrasives and the CPM154 steel has exceptional polish finishing qualities. Then the blade is very well taped to portect it during the next build phase .
Cheer for now

[kagia]

Oh man, is that a convex grind?!?

[greybark]

Hey Mikey and Lord Walsingham , you are both correct !!!!!!!!!!
Cheers

[greybark]

Oh man, is that a convex grind?!?

Hey kagia , yes a very slight convex almost straight grind to take advantage of finesse with a stronger blade .
Thanks for your interest .....

[BiG Boar]

Now to choose a handle. Stag antler would be classic, but I think something a little more unusual or foreign would make it a piece to talk about. Something that takes no up keep would be nice too. Buffalo horn would be my first choice. Or giraffe bone.

[kagia]

I personally like G10 or canvas micarta, but it sounds like you're going for a different look.

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/Drilling_front_bolster.jpg

Now the blade is fully polished and protected by a good coat of tapeing . In this pic the left front bolster block is drilled in accordance with the pre hardness drilled knife handle pin holes. These holes will accommodate the bolster pins whch will secure the bolsters to the knife . This brass bolster block can be seen (taped) is held in place by a clamp for hole alignment.
An idea on how nice the polished steel is can be seen near the drill location.
Cheers for now

[BiG Boar]

I think you should go with a wood handle Ken.

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/Cutting_bolsters.jpg

These are the four bolster brass blocks being cut from bar stock.
It`s starting to make sence now !!!!!!!

["No Choke"Lord Walsingham]

It is a very interesting thing to see The Gift continuing to come together... That's still to say nothing of the touching story behind this knife coming to be in the first place!

Mikey, I did read your post prior to posting my own. What you've mentioned there is a serrated second (or double) edge. Jimping (as appears to be present on the spine of The Gift based on what has been shown thus far) is for gripping the blade above the pommel. A double edge, be it serrated, as you've mentioned, plain (such as is found on a Fairbairn-Sykes blade) or even a false edge as one might see on a Bowie is another matter and are features that do not appear to a part of this particular knife.

As for handle materials? Perhaps it could be Mammoth Ivory! I continue to be very much looking forward to learning and seeing more on The Gift.

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/Fitting_rear_bolster_holes.jpg


That one left rear bolster block is now test fitted and Jeff is touching up the center of the lanyard / broadhead wrench with a round file . The pins used on the bolster are the same as in the handles and are called bolster pins.
Cheers ......

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/Test_fitting_broadhead_wrench.jpg


Both rear bolsters are tested as to a functioning broadhead wrench . The blade slots taper in towards the center of the handle to provide as much blade contac as possible . Point loading could damage the delicate sharp edge of the blade.
Still marching along !!!!!!!!!

[BiG Boar]

Thats brilliant Ken and Jeff. I did not see a functional broad head wrench as an idea. Keep it coming!

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/Test_fitting_bolsters.jpg

This is the final test for fit of front and rear bolsters prior to glueing.
Cheers for now.....

[seatoskymiles]

this one of the best threads in awhile, nice work.

[BiG Boar]

Looks like its coming along Ken. How long does this take to make one?

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/Glueing_bolsters-1.jpg

I hope this worked LOL.
Both bolster blocks are now glued and clamped . Note the bolster pins are designed to have the adhesive flow thru the pin channel thus setting the whole pin . The pins are also protuding and that is for a reason....
Cheers for now and Jeff and I are very appreciative of the view count !!!!!

[J_T]

What knife? I can't get my eyes off the Denver Hayes panties for women. Nice abs.....

[greybark]

Well Well , Jeff and I were wondering who would be the first to comment on the Denver Hayes LOL. Congratulations J-T . Damn an astute bowhunter the winner . LOL
Cheers .... That is the icing on the cake for this thread LOL .

[f350ps]

Patiently awaiting the end result, great thread!! K

[greybark]

Looks like its coming along Ken. How long does this take to make one?

Hey Dave , usualy it takes about two weeks . Now that he and Cassandra are heavily involved in the 3-D archery scene be prepared to add another week to that . LOL
Cheers and thanks for your interest in this thread .

[Beaver Skin]

FYI - The jimping is also a great spot on the knife to spark a fire steel. The serrations can really help throw a good spark and save the main edge of the blade as well.

[BiG Boar]

Is the builder of the knife on this site?

[greybark]

Hey Dave , yes and he will post at the end of the build.... Will PM you.
Cheers

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/peening_bolster_pins.jpg



The Bolster pins are trimmed a bit with enough left to peen . The purpose of the previous glueing was only to stabilize the bolster blocks for the hammer peening .
The polished blade still taped for protection.
Cheers all....

[greybark]

Hey "No Choke" Lord Walsingham , PM sent .....
Cheers

[Onesock]

Whats more pretty your Black Widow or the new knife?????????????????

[albravo2]

I am really enjoying this thread.

One suggestion to the knife maker when he posts at the end: I think many of us are fascinated by the process of making a high-end knife but unclear on what, exactly, differentiates a high-end knife from the good old Buck we've been carrying for years.

This thread has awoken a craving for my own custom knife but I definitely need to understand more than I do now.

[BiG Boar]

unclear on what, exactly, differentiates a high-end knife from the good old Buck we've been carrying for years.

http://www.jayfisher.com/Factory_Knives_vs__Handmade_Knives.htm

[greybark]

Hey Big Boar , that is the first web site Jeff sent me to . Lots of good stuff there albravo2 , but also the steel producers themselves . In this case I googled CPM 154 .
Albravo2 like you I am fully aware of that new craving of a custom knife and what really went into one.
Cheers.

[greybark]

Whats more pretty your Black Widow or the new knife?????????????????

Hey Onesock , LMAO . Love it .....

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/handle_pieces.jpg


First note that the front and rear bolsters are properly peened and roughly shaped .
Now for the parts shown , the two black plastic pieces will be against the metal tang and highlight the metal to wood transition .
Then the two pieces of highly figured local maple burl that will form the handle and are called scales.
Now the six mosiac pins that with adhesives hold everthing to-gether . The pins are designed as with the others to allow the adhesives to migrate the lenght of the pins.
Now the process of glue and clamp up , that is another story .
Cheers for now

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/glued_on.jpg

This is the stage where no craftsman would want his client to see LOL.
There are four clamps in this pic.

[BiG Boar]

You're right. I think your knife looks like crap. There is no way this will turn out nice now. Its ruined!

[birdee]

great read bigboar thanks for the link.

[J_T]

Greybark, so is this knife going to be auctioned off at the TBBC Rendezvous in Rock Creek on the May long weekend? See you there.

[greybark]

Hey J_T , Hell no , Jeff and Cassandra of Speartip Knives will donate one quite similar for auction or raffle .
Cheers

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/BroadheadwrenchandLanyardhole.jpg


OK , Sat is the final pics and here is a teaser to help get us there . LOL
Lookin good so far Eh!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Cheers ...

[J_T]

Looks beautiful Ken. Very nice choice of wood. You have always been one to pay close attention to detail. (I was just teasing about the knife being a raffle item) Can't wait to see it first hand.

[Islander]

That is one beautiful knife Ken....can.t wait to see it and meet Jeff and Cassandra. Looking forward to May long weekend.

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/Thumb_slip.jpg


The previous photo showed the combination Lanyard (for the leather lock) and broadhead wrench. More on the leather lock later...
This photo demonstrates what we call the "thumb slip" . It is a slightly hollowed or spooned out area starting in the top front of the handle and progressing upwards into top part of the front bolster . When gripping this handle your thumb slips in to a natural and comfortable position that provides an additional force and control often required in dressing and skinning larger animals .
Cheers for now...

[birdee]

beauty wood in that handle, love to stroke that.

["No Choke"Lord Walsingham]

Great stuff,

We surely have a wonderous blade on display here, it is a beautiful piece indeed. Much of the difference lies in the little details when it comes to the disparity between such a knife as this and a factory-made product... When broadhead wrench, jimping positioned just so along with the aforementoned "Thumb Slip" come together in a single unit one can surely ascertain the difference. Often too materials and most defenitely craftsmanship (in this case, in the least) in custom knives supercede that of factory.
Now this is not to disparage factory knife owners. There is alot to be said for products such as the Cold Steel Canadian Belt Knife (sort of a D.H. Russell clone), Finn Bear or Roach Belly yet one will not find a broadhead wrench in their current production polypropylene handles!

P.S. ~ Excellent choice of handle material for The Gift!

[Onesock]

Maybe u could lend me that knife so it will have some blood on it!

[BiG Boar]

Well this just isn't right! You mean it's finished and you're not sharing the pics!

[greybark]

Final photos will be taken to-morrow and shared ...... Well played !!!!!!!
Cheers

[Drillbit]

Either I don't know enough about arrows/bolts, or knives?

The slot at the back of the knife is for tightening a broadhead on a shaft, right? I don't think any knife I have had, has that, just a regular lanyard hole.

Nice build!!

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/finished_knife_with_sheath2-1.jpg

Jeff made and hand stiched the sheath and is fairly heavy leather with a swing and lock flap design that was borrowed from my old retired Puma Trappers Companion .
I like the idea of the knife being slung below the belt line for easier access and to a degree moves the knife downward and away from your back pack frame and also resists the rotation of a higher mounted knife.
The leather Lock is designed to prevent any chance that the knife will be jerked out of the sheath by the constant moving and adjusting of your heavy back pack on those long trips.
While on horse back your knife wont be jerked out of the sheath by the at times constant swipeing of branches .
Or just look good with the Jingle Bob thingy (in this case a brass broadhead).
Cheers.

[greybark]

Either I don't know enough about arrows/bolts, or knives?

The slot at the back of the knife is for tightening a broadhead on a shaft, right? I don't think any knife I have had, has that, just a regular lanyard hole.

Nice build!!

Hey Drillbit , you are right and in this case it is for a two blade broadhead . We toyed with the idea of three sloted wrench on the other side for a three blade broadhead but felt since this was a prototype to keep it simple .
Cheers

[Weatherby Fan]

Outstanding thread.......and an even better "gift", thanks for sharing.
WF

[BiG Boar]

Well, I'm impressed with the way this thread played out. Suspense and intrigue! When I get up in the morning, I expect to see the finished product! Also, next year I want to see blood on it!

[Onesock]

Not your blood Ken HaHa

[treehugger]

Thanks for taking us along... I wanna make a knife now. Not that I could! How do you hollow out a thumb slip? Dremel? And then polish polish polish?

[greybark]

Thanks for taking us along... I wanna make a knife now. Not that I could! How do you hollow out a thumb slip? Dremel? And then polish polish polish?

Hey treehugger, Jeff remarked that the Thumb Slip was the hardest part of making this knife . The Slip had to start at a very early stage before the initial hardening stage . The spine of the knife , the steel just behind front bolster was spooned a wee bit prior to hardening to match the slight handle wood scales and migrate upwards into the front bolster much later on .
Cheers and thanks for your post .

[greybark]

:-D Good morning All , this project is coming to a conclusion and Jeff and I want to Thank those that viewed this thread so many times and in particular those who took time to post . Those views and posts made this thread so worth while and we are appreciative.
:-D Final photos will be taken just after three oclock and will be posted soon after that .
Cheers All.

[treehugger]

Hey treehugger, Jeff remarked that the Thumb Slip was the hardest part of making this knife . The Slip had to start at a very early stage before the initial hardening stage . The spine of the knife , the steel just behind front bolster was spooned a wee bit prior to hardening to match the slight handle wood scales and migrate upwards into the front bolster much later on .
Cheers and thanks for your post .

It's an art, no doubt about it! I never would've known. Thanks again. This has been really interested... can't wait to see the photo shoot later today

[treehugger]

Wow! Pretty nice alright. More like a piece of art! Congratulations on your new knife... beauty

[Kilwinning]

It is certainly a work of art (nobody will dispute that) I tuned in to this thread every night after work to check up on the progress. from the metal work to the wood it is beautiful, congratulations and thanks for taking us along.

[kevan]

Thank-you very much for an awesome thread from start to finish.... totally enjoyable !

[yamadirt 426]

Enjoyed the thread very much. Jeff is a great artist/knife builder. I look forward to the recap and the first animal skinned by this piece.

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/KnifePhotos009.jpg

The tint to these photos is from a different camera and the last one after jeffs post will be the proper tone .
Cheers for now...

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/KnifePhotos005.jpg

YaaHooEeeeeeeee!!!!!!! The colour is much better now but still a bit off .The bottom line of the handle is designed to fit the natural curve formed by the fingers . Another benefit of that slightly extended bottom line is its resistance to the knife turning in your hand due to the blood and fat encountered when dressing big game .
Cheers

[First Up]

Hello to all the followers of this thread. My name is Jeff Maron of SpearTip Knives. I made "The Gift!!!!!!" and I enjoyed reading the comments. I was particularly entertained by the ideas with the file work and the Denver Hayes remark. "The Gift!!!!!!" has been a joy all around. The reason for "The Gift!!!!!!" is this:

Greybark has rekindled my love for bowhunting after 7 years of absence due to the loss of my hunting partner, my father. This knife represents a small token of appreciation for Greybark's mentorship, empathy, encouragement and exhuberation. These characteristics are not just restricted to archery but as an everyday good friend. My wife and I feel so fortunate to be mentored by someone who was a past Canadian National Champion and has a wall covered with 7 Pope and Young records plus others not recorded. It is a small trade.

Now back to "The Gift!!!!!!". The knife is a truly built custom knife. That is all I build, custom knives, period. I don't believe a knife maker should be acclaimed as a "custom" knife maker if he only orders pre-made blades already shaped, beveled and hardened, only awaiting rivets, handle material and a sheath.

The difference between a high quality manufactured knife and a custom knife is this; (This is where Greybark would say, "Now let's find out where the real bear shits in the buckwheat!") Comparing a high quality manufactured knife and a custom made knife, the cutting duration and quality of the same steel will be very similar assuming the custom maker knows how to properly harden and temper it.

In "The Gift!!!!!!", Greybark wanted specific details such as the following:
-Broadhead Wrench: particularly a 2 blade which is characteristic of a traditional broadhead
-Brass Bolsters: to develop a patina with age and to match the spalted maple burl
-File Work: marking the location of the Beer Opener. LAUGH OUT LOUD!!!
-Thumbslip: a concave shaped location that locks the thumb in place for full control of the knife
-Stencil: custom designed by myself with a 2 blade traditional broadhead encircled by the words "Greybark's Bowhunter" depicting the newly acclaimed model.
-Handle: spalted maple burl with black vulcanized fiber spacers
-Blade Profile: the blade profile was designed around another one of my similar hunter models
-Leather-Lock: a system designed to assure not losing the knife from the sheath; modified from Greybark's Puma
A customer's specific requests are what separates a high quality manufactured knife from a TRULY custom built knife. My profile can be looked at to find my wesite if interested.

The requirements for discussing the specifics of "The Gift!!!!!!" were as follows:
-Myself (designer)
-Greybark (client)
-Wife/s (second and sometimes third opinions)
-Nourishment (Sleeman)
-Cheesecake
-Crumb Collectors (Freddie (no it's FRED) & Katie)

I have built knives to remain untouched on showcase shelves, to knives used everyday for workforce tasks. As well I have built a knife to replace the ring used during a proposal for a hand in marriage. But I have not built a knife more personal than the knife for Greybark, "The Gift!!!!!!".

Thank you Greybark (Ken), it was an honour!

[Mikey Rafiki]

Beautiful!

I would have a tough time getting that knife messy in some guts but I'm sure it would do a heck of a job.

[greybark]

Hey Jeff and Cassandra , you remind me of everything that happened when I first picked up a bow . Lets just keep doing what were doing . All will follow .
I`m at lost for words now and will Thank you in person .
Cheers all....

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/Smallcameraknifepics001.jpg

Ok , This is the last photo and is the proper colour (used a different camera ) .
This has been such a special ride .....
Cheers

[f350ps]

Wow guys, that is an absolute beauty!!! I agree with the above, I'd have a hard time making it messy, well done! K

[Onesock]

Very nice knife Ken congrats to you.

[NorBC]

Gorgeous..

[Whonnock Boy]

Great story, great thread, beautiful knife. A big thank you for sharing. Thumbs up!

[Fred1]

That was a fun thread!!! Enjoyed it! Well done!

[albravo2]

Jeff and Cassandra, your work is brilliant. Great thread.

I know you didn't do it for the publicity but I'm very glad that all the people here on HBC see what goes into a knife like this one. Fantastic.

[Weatherby Fan]

Yes an awesome story, great friends and a gift with meaning......thanks again for sharing.
WF

[NovemberBravo]

Amazing thread! Jeff and Cassandra you are truly artists!

It's been awesome to follow this thread and like others I hope the next time I see this knife it has blood on it :mrgreen:!

NB

[Walksalot]

Wow, great story. A stunning attempt to repay in kind. Having said that, I am sure he realized he was being mentored by one of the best.

[BiG Boar]

Great thread fellas! I was loving it the whole way. Beauty knife too.

[jeff341]

Great post. Lots of fun.

Beautiful knife too. Thanks for sharing.

["No Choke"Lord Walsingham]

Thanks again to Greybark, Jeff and all involved for their contributions to this thread. I have enjoyed this all immensely!

It truly is a fine blade for a fine Man and top-notch Bowhunting Character.

[deer nut]

Is there a sheath to house this beautiful knife?

[greybark]

Hey deer nut, yes and is hand made and sown with some good points from my old Puma`s Trappers Companion . There is a pic of it on post #94 .
Cheers

[Witko]

Wow, what a great story and an incredible piece of work. About 4 months ago I started dabbling in knife making myself and realize that I've got a long (long long long) way to go to get to this level. Thank you for sharing such a complete overview of the whole process. I think that's really great that the makers updated you and educated you so fully. Really cool. Well done all!

[greybark]

Corection : a mistake on my part . Any pins that went thru the bolsters were in fact bolster pins . Any pins that went thru the handle were mosiac pins . Generally these pins form various colourful circular patterns but in this case are single .
Are we getting close to the 10,000 views yet . LOL.
Cheers

[BiG Boar]

9976 views. To get to 10,000 you're gonna have to give a price of what Jeff would charge for something like this. When I was looking at custom builds last year I was surprised they wernt $300 plus plus for one.

[First Up]

Should anyone need more information please PM me.
It has been a great thread. Over 10000 views. WOW!

[Good2bCanadian]

Beauty.

I just bought my first custom knife from another local fellow. They are true works of art.

[greybark]

Hey All , In fairness to our Sponsers please forward inquiries via Jeff`s web site which is on his profile .
Cheers

[huntcoop]

Very interesting story and crazy nice knife. Cheers to y'all, that's very nice.

[Wood butcher]

Great thread!!
Sweet knife. Gotta love the story behind it too, Awesome.

[aggiehunter]

Kenny, it's way to nice for Elk Blood...or.....is it??? Ern

[greybark]

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/Knifecertificate005.jpg

OK it`s pretty well a wrap . Here is the Certificate of Authenticity given with each of Jeffs masterpieces . Again the various details here demonstrate his devotion to chosen craft .

http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab283/greybark111/Knifecertificate002.jpg

Jeff and I thank all for the views (over 12,500 ) and in particular those who took time to post . You made this a wonderful and special ride .
Cheers.

[jeff341]

I hope you and this knife see some great action this season....I think a follow up post when it is first put to work in the field would be a good read too.

Thanks

[Elkaddict]

Wow, congratulations Ken, Kudos Jeff. Stunning knife. Leather lock or not, I would be terrified to take it into the bush for fear of loosing it.

[adriaticum]

Great thread and a beautiful knife.
Now greybark all you need to do is post a pic of this knife in your hand so we can see how it fits.
If I bought a knife like that, I probably wouldn't use it.
Just stroke it every day.
"My precious"

[gamehunter6o]

Fancy knives are not my thing, but it was a great read and visual journey through the making process. Thanks heaps.

[BiG Boar]

Fancy knives are not my thing, but it was a great read and visual journey through the making process. Thanks heaps.

Putting whole carcasses on your back is more your thing. Which is far more awesome in a way.

[greybark]

I apologize for the missing photos . It appears that when deleteing pics in Photobucket it also runs to your thread . Don`t ask me why , how the hell ( miserable with a bad cold ) do I know !!!
Can they or replacement pics be re-incerted ?
Cheers

[Boner]

This was a great read, thanks for the pictures and the details for the process of real custom knife making.

That's one special knife.

[Foxtail]

I can't believe I missed this thread... I just read through the whole thing.

I think I shot a round with Jeff and Cassandra at the Abby 3d but can't be sure. I believe they were the "traditional shooters" that made me and my compound look silly lol. My name is Hector if you guys remember.

I in no way have the accomplishments that greybark has and I can only hope that one day I can mean as much to someone as he means to you guys. This is truly a heart warming story.

[danfloris]

Well last night I stopped by and visited Greybark at his house. After all the reading I must say this knife is more beautiful in person. I GOT TO HOLD THE GIFT !

[greybark]

Due to recent requests an update to the Gift is required . Speartip Knives no longer exsists and the website has been removed .
I`m so fortunate to be one of many that benifited from Jeff`s extra ordinary talents .
Cheers

[Down South]

Beauty knife

[Mik]

That is a sharp lookin knife ;)

[greybark]

While mulling over the start of the day , memories of past hunts and adventures prevailed . This past season may well be my last and one adventure amonst many rose to the fore front . I searched "The Gift" knife and relished each post , this knife is such a wonderful wrap up to 70 years of adventure (am now 80) . Maker/artist Jeff Maron`s wonderful contribution ensures that although my hunts have ended , they will continue with acompanyment at various 3-D archery events .
Been awhile with the original post , but hope this also bring up the thread for site newcomers . Cheers

[wideopenthrottle]

great thread...thanks for resurrecting it