Bob Engnath Knife Patterns

Bob Engnath Knife Patterns

COMPANION BOWIE - A small, stark bowie design that finishes into a beautiful little belt knife. Rather finely drawn in the point but plenty functional and quite dramatic looking. Bob now uses a twist on the grind to make the tip thicker and tougher. Ground from 3/16" thick steel, 4 and 3/4 inches, tip to guard. ATS-34

STOUT ONE - Fellows kept asking for a hunting bowie, so this is our new offering. Made from 3/16" thick steel, 6 inches, tip to guard. If the stick tang doesn't appeal to you, order the Stout One blade in combination with any slab handle from another pattern in our line. ATS-34

MAGNUM - A larger version of the 20, but in 1/4 inch thick steel and two inches longer. Good as a working blade or a Western costume type. A good many of our bowies end up at Wild West shoots. 8 and 1/8 inches, tip to guard. 440-C

PATS' BOWIE - Pat Donavan allowed me to use his idea in this marvellous, lean and mean style that can be finished with guard, bolsters, or plain slab handle. 1/4 inch thick steel with 9 and 3/4 inches, tip to guard and 13 and ½" overall. False edge is not ground to sharpen. 440-C

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YALLER 'BAR - A mountain mans' grizzly fighter from the 1820 Sheffield pattern (Butcher) with a hand filed back.. Fine collectors blade. Fancy choil cut, (blade breaker) is standard but will vary slightly from blade to blade. Ground from 1/4" thick stock with 10 and 3/8 inches from tip to guard. Filing pattern on the spine varies with the mood of the nut at the file handle. 440-C

SAND DUNE SPECIAL - We were going to call this the Desert Storm Special, but they were done before I could get the prototypes finished. Can't say I'm disappointed though. Has sort of a Persian feel to it that makes it interesting. There's quite a resemblance to one of the Hibben blade styles, but the design was arrived at independently. 1/4 inch thick, 10 and 3/8 inches from tip to guard. Have seen a few of these finished and they sure do look nice! See #101 for a shorter version. 440-C

CALIFORNIA EAGLE - A "gold rush" pattern and a popular bowie. Comes with a hand filed back that may vary slightly from the catalog sketch. Note the unusual grip angle that keeps the point high and on the centerline of the grip. From 1/4" stock and no lightweight! 10 and 1/4 inches, tip to guard and 15 and 3/8" overall. Handle is now longer and narrower to fit contemporary tastes and our standard handle blank size. (The antique pattern is English, with a shorter, wide grip designed to be held in a fist style hold.) 440-C

COUGAR CLAW - Wostenholm IXL type fighting knife, definitely not for the faint hearted. Fancy choil, originally a blade breaking device, is standard. Out of 1/4" thick stock with 9 and ½ inches, tip to guard. 440-C

THE ONE - Our version of Resin Bowies' Louisiana made, double ground but single edged fighting blade. ( You can get a lot of discussion on which Bowie style is the real thing. We're not choosing sides, and have added another pattern later on.) Measures 9 and 1/8 inches, from tip to guard. Every bowie collection should have one. Ground from of 1/4" thick stock in 440-C.

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CLASSIC - A late, Civil War period pattern, about 1865-70 with clean lines and a coffin grip. Very popular presentation piece, now made with a slightly longer grip for more comfort. Has a tapered tang and is from 1/4" thick stock, 8 inches from tip to guard and 13" overall. 440-C

MUSSO BOWIE -Joe Musso owns the original of this blade and has proven it to be historically significant. The shape was so unique that we had to include it in our offering. Makes quite an impressive display knife with about an acre of steel to polish. Remember, you may order these soft, do the polishing and return them for hardening later, at no extra cost, other than the shipping expense. 1/4 inch thick stock with 14 and 1/4 inches of blade. 440-C

PLAIN EAGLE -Lots of fellows like the California Eagle but not the complex finishing that the file cuts and grind line require. Here's a simpler version that takes less than half the time. It's also quite a bit lighter than the #29. Drilled #30 for 1/8" pins. Tapered tang. From 1/4" thick stock, 9 and 5/8 inches, tip to guard and 14 and 3/4" overall. Stick tang available at no extra cost, but a slight delay. 440-C

DEFENSER - A mean, partially double ground clip point designed as a boot knife. Small enough to carry full time. One look will convince anyone that it can be very effective. Lightweight, but sturdy, with double guard lugs. Has a tapered tang and is cut from 3/16" thick stock with 4 and 3/4 inches from tip to guard lugs and 9" overall. Guard slides on from the front. ATS-34, sometimes in 440-C

HUNTERS' CLASSIC - Here's a pattern that's been around since 1880, a fine, small bowie for hunters or 3


collectors. Takes a guard and is drilled for 1/8" pins. Ground from 3/16 inch thick stock, 6 and ½ inches from tip to guard and 11" overall. Tapered tang. Has a narrow false edge, just in case we forget to show that on the drawing again. We are also playing with this pattern a bit, to make it a little narrower and more traditional. 3/16" ATS-34 standard, or special order heavy duty model in 440-C, 1/4" stock.

WOSTENHOLM BOWIE - From the Sheffield pattern of 1815-20, this dramatic bowie is an excellent collectors item. Unusually narrow point with saber grind and file decorated back. Design is for plain, stick tang. From 1/4" thick steel stock. 8 and 5/8 inches from point to guard and 11 and 3/4" overall. 440-C

TEXAS BOWIE - In the classic Henry style ( I should be half as good as he was.) This bowie has a place in every collection. Properly finished, with the most exacting eye for perfection, it might even be mistaken for one of Eds'. Drilled #30 for 1/8" pins. Has a tapered tang. Proves that a Bowie doesn't have to be fancy to look great. Ground from 1/4" steel stock, 9 inches from guard to tip and 13 and 3/4" overall. 440-C

IRON LADY - DESIGN CHANGE somebody had to offer the "movie monster" in kit form. This is a foot long, 21/2" top to bottom, 1/4 thick down the centerline, 15 inches overall. Top edge is tapered from 1/4" thick at the guard to 1/8" at the clip. The clip will sharpen to an axe edge. Weighs about a pound, a small hand axe! Not to be confused with the original Bowie knife, this pattern was created by a movie prop shop and has no historical precedent. 440-C

GOOD OLE' BLADE -Everyone will recognize the origin of this one, and I'm not ashamed to borrow this style pattern since it's probably one of the most copied blades in history. Ours is just a hair wider than the classic original. , 1/4 inch thick steel stock with 7 inches from guard to tip. 440-C

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TEXAS CAMP KNIFE - We were going to offer these years back, but thought they might be too big. All of the samples sold and we had guys asking for more, so now it's a standard. The top tapers just a little thinner at the tip and the main, bottom grind is twisted at the tip to carry the weight and strength closer to the tip. Really impressive when it's made up with a simple guard and a crown stag grip. Made from 1/4 inch thick stock, 11 and ½ inches from tip to guard. 440-C

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Daggers

COMBAT - designed by Bob and a Green Beret buddy who went out and field tested the prototype in the jungles of West Los Angles. A totally nasty blade with a full length double grind for double edging. Cut for a double guard, has a tapered tang. Guard goes on from the back. 3/16 inch thick steel, 7 and 3/4 inches, tip to guard, 12 and 3/4" overall. Want it larger? Try the #76. Pardon the use of the word "Combat", but this one was named before the mass production guys started abusing the term. ATS-34. May also be ordered in 1/4", 440C.

GOLD RUSH - a classic San Francisco dagger from the mid 1800s'. The guard slides on from the front, and we'd recommend a layered type to add interest. A full dress version would have a white handle. Ground as a double edged blade with the grind line straight, but off center. 3/16 inch thick steel, 5 and 3/4 inches, tip to guard notch, 10 and 3/8" overall. ATS 34, occasionally 440-C.

SHORT STUFF - a high tech, modern design boot knife that really locks into the hand. Knives of this type aren't intended to be held in a lot of different ways. Works well with either plain handles or a bolster. Ground for full double edge. 3/16" thick steel stock, 4 and 3/4 inches, tip to guard and 9 and 1/4" overall. If you'd like it smaller, go to #100. ATS 34, sometimes in 440-C.

WAR DAGGER - war is short for Warenski, who seems to have made this style dagger a standard pattern at every show. A classic, big blade that may be finished as plain or complex as one wishes. Works with any style from renaissance to fantasy to high art. We will special order this style in any length up to 30 inches overall. 1/4 inch thick steel, with 12 and 5/8 inches, tip to guard are the standard dimensions. 440 C

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MUGGERS' DOWNFALL - a strong and dramatic push dagger designed to discourage just about any unwanted attention. Single edged so you can carry it in paranoid states. Can be finished with existing metal grip or with scales pinned on. Tang is not tapered. Pin holes are #30 for 1/8" pins. Now stocked in double edge too. Usually 1/4 inch thick steel, but also in 3/16 inch on occasion, 3 and ½ inches of cutting edge and 6 and ½" overall. Order #56 by specifying which version, single or double, edge you want. 440C

WIDOWMAKER - a classy, small dagger designed for bolsters or a plain slab handle. We cut these from sturdy stock for strength. Works well as a functional boot knife or do it up as a letter opener. Finish one with bolsters, ivory scales and a satin finish for a fantastic looking blade! Has a tapered tang. Normally from 1/4" thick stock, 4 inch cutting edge and 9 inches overall. 440C

RONS' DAGGER PLUS - this is the old #62 pattern plus an inch and a half. We've had a lot of request for the #62, ( now discontinued) ground a little longer so here it is in the regular line. Has a tapered tang and longer handle to fit the blade proportions better. Made from 1/4 inch thick stock, 6 and 3/4 inches, tip to guard and 11 and ½" overall. 440C

TOOTHPICK - common sense had kept us from offering a pure toothpick, but Bob finally gave up and agreed to grind some. Makes a nice companion piece for the #33 or #60. Really light and moves like a fencers' foil. When finishing this blade, you will notice that the grind angle changes as it gets to the tip, making it a lot stronger, a detail you will not find on any other kit toothpicks. Ground from 1/4" thick stock, 11 inches from guard to point. 440C 7


BOLSTER DAGGER - used to hate double edges, but they sell so good! A nice little dagger with plenty of space for generous sized front bolsters - great for engraving. Makes a dramatic little letter opener. From 1/4 inch thick steel stock and has a tapered tang, 4 and 5/8 inches of cutting edge and 9 and 1/4" overall. 440C

SWELL DAGGER - the "swell" refers to the flared center portion of the grip. We do not recommend trying to put a guard on this one. Very functional or very decorative, depends on your taste and social habits. Carefully double ground from stainless. Has a tapered tang and is from 1/4 inch thick stock, with 6 and 1/4 inches, tip to lugs and 10 and 7/8" overall. 440C

DIXON FIGHTER - a mean Loveless design named after the fellow who ordered the first one. Guard goes on from the front. If you want to pin this guard on, you'll have to order the blade soft in order to be able to drill it to fit the guard. Full length double edge ground, but does not have to be sharpened on top if you want to keep it less menacing. Tapered tang and cut from 3/16" thick steel stock, 6 and 1/4, tip to guard lugs, and 10 and 7/8" overall. ATS-34, 1/4" 440-C.

BIG BEAR - the ultimate fighter design from Riverside. About eight inches, doubled edged, tapered tang. From 1/4" thick steel stock, 8 and 7/8 inches, guard lugs to tip and 14 and 1/8" overall. Guard goes on from the front. Sub hilt slides on from below and should be 3/8 inch thick. Can be ordered without sub-hilt notch. To pin the front guard, order it soft. Needs a handle slab that is just slightly larger than our standard size. 440C

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SLEEVE DAGGER - a hideout special designed for a concealed carry. The fellow who ordered the first one carried it in a forearm sheath. Ground triangular so it will lay flat more easily. Tip is slightly curved upward, so don't think it's warped when it arrives. Put a little teardrop shaped handle on one side of the flat tang and it's finished. 3/16 or 1/4" inch thick steel and 7 and 1/4" inches overall. 440C

LITTLE TOOTHPICK - a slab handled version of our #69, in a slightly smaller blade size. Tapered tang is standard. 1/4 inch thick steel stock, 8 and 7/8 inches, lugs to tip and 14" inches overall. ATS-34

O.S.S. - this is one scary knife. Saw the original in a display of WWII clandestine weapons and it gave me a chill! Full length double edge and very slender. Undoubtedly designed for puncturing dual truck tires with one easy thrust. I certainly can't think of any other legitimate use for it. Grip is plain and designed to be kept simple. Bolster holes are there, if you need them. Ground from 3/16 inch steel stock, ground 6 and 1/4 inches and 11 and 3/8" overall. ATS-34

BIG APPLE - A lot like the Loveless New York Special. Has a three finger grip. Excellent hide out or concealment type with self defense in mind. This has become our best selling blade, even before it appeared in the catalog. Made from 5/32" thick steel with 3 and 5/8 from tip to lugs and 7 and 3/8" overall. Provision for bolster, but looks great with just a slab handle. ATS-34

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PRE-WAR DAGGER - funny how things change. Used to be you couldn't give away a stick tang dagger. Now everyone wants one. This was scaled down from the Warenski style blade. Makes a fine decorative dagger. Daggers aren't supposed to be working knives, are they? I know that I'd rather not live where they were. From 1/4 inch thick steel, 8 inches from guard to tip. 440-C

M. A. D. #1 - that stands for Martial Arts Dagger. This blade is as simple as we can make it, with a handle intended for cord wrapping. Also works with a slab covered handle. The shoulders you see at the front of the grip are filed true, for a guard, if you want to use one. May be finished as a double edge or leave the top edge dull. Made from 1/4 inch thick stock, 6 and 3/4 inches from guard notches to tip and 11 and ½" overall. 440-C steel. $36.50

M. A. D. #2 - this is the smaller version, better suited for concealment. Makes a fine pair with #108. The extra handle holes are there on both versions in case you want to use slab handles and pin them. 440-C steel, 1/4 inch thick, 4 and 3/8 inches of blade and 8 and ½" overall.

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Drop point

FEATHER - A super-simple utility blade that is very practical and one of our most popular. Useful at the office, in the kitchen or in the field. Easy to finish. Deep finger cut eliminates the need for a guard and sets it apart from the ordinary. Made from 5/32 inch thick stock, 3 and 7/8 inch cutting edge, 8 and 3/8" overall. ATS-34, occasionally in 440-C

PACK ALONG - a small, leaf shaped blade designed to be finished with bare metal grips or wrapped with cord, although adding a slab handle is no problem. Needs no guard and has no tang taper. Grip or lashing holes are there if you need them. Out of 1/8" thick stock, 3 inches from tip to guard and 7 and 1/8" overall. If you plan not to use slabs on the handle, ask us to "break" the sharp corners of the tang for comfort. ATS-34

SUPER CHUBBY - contemporary design chubby pattern with a bit more character than the standard model. Comfortable grip and a generous choil cutout ahead of the guard lug lets you "choke-up" on the blade. Has a tapered tang and is 3/16" thick stock with 3 and 7/8 inches of cutting edge and 7 and 3/4" overall. ATS-34

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JAYS' UTILITY - a pattern borrowed from one of our local makers. Very practical and useful for nearly any field or camp chores and small enough to carry legally in most urban areas. This model is ground from 1/8" thick stainless and doesn't have a tapered tang. Measures 3 inches on the cutting edge and 7 and ½" overall. The current version has a slightly wider grip than earlier models. ATS-34 or 440C

SORTA LIKE BOBS' - Bob Loveless, that is. He was kind enough to let us do several blades similar to his carefully designed styles. Ours are flat ground and not the precise masterpieces he produces, but will fit the hand and work in a manner very similar to his gentlemans' knife. Needs no guard and is ground from 5/32" thick stock, 3 inches of cutting edge and 7 and ½" overall. ATS-34

ANOTHER COPY - of the Loveless line. This time one of the larger working blades with style refined for the total utility. Bobs' designs have inspired the work of perhaps half the knife makers in the country. The other half didn't have the nerve to copy him. This is his straight hunter with tapered tang and ground from 3/16" thick stock, 3 and 3/4 inches of cutting edge and 8 and ½" overall. Needs no guard. ATS-34

DROP HUNTER - Bobs' ( Loveless ) classic design, the drop hunter with front mounted guard. Possibly the most copied knife in contemporary knife making. Tapered tang and is ground from 3/16" thick stock, 4 inches, tip to guard notch and 8 and 1/4" overall. ATS-34

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DROP HUNTER II - The drop hunter in a version for the guard-less fans. Tapered tang and 3/16" thick steel stock, 3 and 3/8 inches of cutting edge and 8 and 5/8" overall. ATS-34

CLASSIC BOOT - a fairly innocent looking knife that can easily pass for a working blade but does excellent duty as a protection blade. Tapered tang, designed for bolsters and can also be fitted with a guard. False edge will not sharpen. Plenty of class for the fellow who wants to really dress one up! 5/32 inch thick steel stock, 3 and 3/4 inches of cutting edge and 8 and ½" overall. ATS-34 or 440-C

LUMS' BOOT - Borrowed this pattern from Bob Lum (great craftsman from Oregon). Designed for bolsters with a tapered tang. False edge won't sharpen. Handle shape makes a guard un-necessary, but it looks great with bolsters. Nice working knife, but there's something sort of tough about it too! Bob would prefer us to use a later version of the design that's a little straighter with a wider handle, but this one sold better in side by side testing. Cut from 3/16 inch thick stock, 4 inches of cutting edge and 8 and 3/4" overall. ATS-34

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Historic

COMBAT - designed by Bob and a Green Beret buddy who went out and field tested the prototype in the jungles of West Los Angles. A totally nasty blade with a full length double grind for double edging. Cut for a double guard, has a tapered tang. Guard goes on from the back. 3/16 inch thick steel, 7 and 3/4 inches, tip to guard, 12 and 3/4" overall. Want it larger? Try the #76. Pardon the use of the word "Combat", but this one was named before the mass production guys started abusing the term. ATS-34. May also be ordered in 1/4", 440C.

GOLD RUSH - a classic San Francisco dagger from the mid 1800s'. The guard slides on from the front, and we'd recommend a layered type to add interest. A full dress version would have a white handle. Ground as a double edged blade with the grind line straight, but off center. 3/16 inch thick steel, 5 and 3/4 inches, tip to guard notch, 10 and 3/8" overall. ATS 34, occasionally 440-C.

NESMUK - Probably one of the greatest skinners ever developed. Ours is patterned after one produced about 1920 and has a 5/32" spine. Not designed for a guard, has a tapered tang. Holes are provided for bolsters and it will take a guard if you work at it. 4 inches of cutting edge and 8 and 5/8" overall. ATS-34

MONSTERMUK large enough for a Mountain Man or serious chef and a darn fine camp - butcher knife. Not designed for a guard, has the standard tapered tang. 3/16 inch thick steel, 6 inches of cutting edge and 11 and 1/8" overall. Provision for bolsters. ATS-34 $37.95 20.

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YALLER 'BAR - a mountain mans' grizzly fighter from the 1820 Sheffield pattern (Butcher) with a hand filed back.. Fine collectors blade. Fancy choil cut, (blade breaker) is standard but will vary slightly from blade to blade. Ground from 1/4" thick stock with 10 and 3/8 inches from tip to guard. Filing pattern on the spine varies with the mood of the nut at the file handle. 440C

SAND DUNE SPECIAL - We were going to call this the Desert Storm Special, but they were done before I could get the prototypes finished. Can't say I'm disappointed though. Has sort of a Persian feel to it that makes it interesting. There's quite a resemblance to one of the Hibben blade styles, but the design was arrived at independently. 1/4 inch thick, 10 and 3/8 inches from tip to guard. Have seen a few of these finished and they sure do look nice! See #101 for a shorter version. 440 C

CALIFORNIA EAGLE - a "gold rush" pattern and a popular bowie. Comes with a hand filed back that may vary slightly from the catalog sketch. Note the unusual grip angle that keeps the point high and on the centerline of the grip. From 1/4" stock and no lightweight! 10 and 1/4 inches, tip to guard and 15 and 3/8" overall. Handle is now longer and narrower to fit contemporary tastes and our standard handle blank size. (The antique pattern is English, with a shorter, wide grip designed to be held in a fist style hold.) Stick tang version available at no extra cost. 440C

WAR DAGGER - war is short for Warenski, who seems to have made this style dagger a standard pattern at every show. A classic, big blade that may be finished as plain or complex as one wishes. Works with any style from renaissance to fantasy to high art. We will special order this style in any length up to 30 inches overall. 1/4 inch thick steel, with 12 and 5/8 inches, tip to guard are the standard dimensions. 440 C

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COUGAR CLAW - Wostenholm IXL type fighting knife, definitely not for the faint hearted. Fancy choil, originally a blade breaking device, is standard. Out of 1/4" thick stock with 9 and ½ inches, tip to guard. 440C

THE ONE - our version of Resin Bowies' Louisiana made, double ground but single edged fighting blade. ( You can get a lot of discussion on which Bowie style is the real thing. We're not choosing sides, and have added another pattern later on.) Measures 9 and 1/8 inches, from tip to guard. Every bowie collection should have one. Ground from of 1/4" thick stock in 440-C.

CLASSIC - a late, Civil War period pattern, about 1865-70 with clean lines and a coffin grip. Very popular presentation piece, now made with a slightly longer grip for more comfort. Has a tapered tang and is from 1/4" thick stock, 8 inches from tip to guard and 13" overall. 440-C

MUSSO BOWIE - Joe Musso owns the original of this blade and has proven it to be historically significant. The shape was so unique that we had to include it in our offering. Makes quite an impressive display knife with about an acre of steel to polish. Remember, you may order these soft, do the polishing and return them for hardening later, at no extra cost, other than the shipping expense. 1/4 inch thick stock with 14 and 1/4 inches of blade. 440 C

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S. E. B. - Stands for a respected law enforcement agency. One of their members invented this combination of the chute knife with a modified #94 (discontinued) handle. Bead blast the blade and cord wrap the grip for the simple approach, use bolsters and fine wood for the fancy end. From 1/4" thick steel and pretty stout with 5 and ½ inches, tip to guard and 10 and ½" overall. It's tough enough to pry with, if you're careful not to use the very end of the tip, and has a no-nonsense look that's very appealing. If you do not cover the guard lugs with the handle material, you'll have to round the corners of them slightly for comfort. Covering the handle lugs requires a handle blank larger than our standard size. If you want to do a version with bolsters, be sure to special order one with holes drilled for them. 440 C

PLAIN EAGLE - lots of fellows like the California Eagle but not the complex finishing that the file cuts and grind line require. Here's a simpler version that takes less than half the time. It's also quite a bit lighter than the #29. Drilled #30 for 1/8" pins. Tapered tang. From 1/4" thick stock, 9 and 5/8 inches, tip to guard and 14 and 3/4" overall. Stick tang available at no extra cost, but a slight delay. 440C

'49ER - short, single edged, spear pointed. The sort of blade preferred during the gold rush days and a type made popular by San Francisco cutlers. Our version is with a stick tang but it may also be ordered with a coffin handle. 5/32 inch thick stock, 5 and ½ inches from tip to guard. ATS-34, occasionally 440-C

HUNTERS' CLASSIC - Here's a pattern that's been around since 1880, a fine, small bowie for hunters or collectors. Takes a guard and is drilled for 1/8" pins. Ground from 3/16 inch thick stock, 6 and ½ inches from tip to guard and 11" overall. Tapered tang. Has a narrow false edge, just in case we forget to show that on the drawing again. We are also playing with this pattern a bit, to make it a little narrower and more traditional. 3/16" ATS-34 standard, or special order heavy duty model in 440-C, 1/4" stock. 17


WOSTENHOLM BOWIE - from the Sheffield pattern of 1815-20, this dramatic bowie is an excellent collectors item. Unusually narrow point with saber grind and file decorated back. Design is for plain, stick tang. From 1/4" thick steel stock. 8 and 5/8 inches from point to guard and 11 and 3/4" overall. 440C

TEXAS BOWIE - in the classic Henry style ( I should be half as good as he was.) This bowie has a place in every collection. Properly finished, with the most exacting eye for perfection, it might even be mistaken for one of Eds'. Drilled #30 for 1/8" pins. Has a tapered tang. Proves that a Bowie doesn't have to be fancy to look great. Ground from 1/4" steel stock, 9 inches from guard to tip and 13 and 3/4" overall. 440C

TOOTHPICK - common sense had kept us from offering a pure toothpick, but Bob finally gave up and agreed to grind some. (He used to mumble the whole time he was working on one, but finally got the hang of it. He's slow, but gets it eventually.) Makes a nice companion piece for the #33 or #60. Really light and moves like a fencers' foil. When finishing this blade, you will notice that the grind angle changes as it gets to the tip, making it a lot stronger, a detail you will not find on any other kit toothpicks. Ground from 1/4" thick stock, 11 inches from guard to point. 440C


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LUM TANTO - Well, if your going to swipe designs, get 'em all. Bob Lum makes this fantastic, modern, Americanized Tanto. Tapered tang and designed for bolsters. A few guys report that this one makes one heck of a fillet blade. We'll do these two patterns up as hard edged blades in 1050 steel, on special order. After grinding, the tips are usually a bit rounded, not exactly the straight line that the pattern shows. Made from 3/16" thick steel stock, 6 and 3/4 inches of cutting edge and 12 and 1/4" overall. ATS-34 or 440-C

IRON LADY - DESIGN CHANGE somebody had to offer the "movie monster" in kit form. This is a foot long, 21/2" top to bottom, 1/4 thick down the centerline, 15 inches overall. Top edge is tapered from 1/4" thick at the guard to 1/8" at the clip. The clip will sharpen to an axe edge. Weighs about a pound, a small hand axe! Not to be confused with the original Bowie knife, this pattern was created by a movie prop shop and has no historical precedent. 440C

TRADITIONAL TANTO - the purists version, straight "Vee" grind, curved tip, every feature correct, except of course, the modern steel we use. It does now have the peaked spine, where we had previously not offered that more authentic feature. Needs Japanese style handle but may have a slab handle on special order. Cut from 3/16" thick stock, 11 and 1/4 inches of cutting edge. ATS-34 or 1/4" 440-C

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O.S.S. - this is one scary knife. Saw the original in a display of WWII clandestine weapons and it gave me a chill! Full length double edge and very slender. Undoubtedly designed for puncturing dual truck tires with one easy thrust. I certainly can't think of any other legitimate use for it. Grip is plain and designed to be kept simple. Bolster holes are there, if you need them. Ground from 3/16 inch steel stock, ground 6 and 1/4 inches and 11 and 3/8" overall. ATS-34

PRE-WAR DAGGER - funny how things change. Used to be you couldn't give away a stick tang dagger. Now everyone wants one. This was scaled down from the Warenski style blade. Makes a fine decorative dagger. Daggers aren't supposed to be working knives, are they? I know that I'd rather not live where they were. From 1/4 inch thick steel, 8 inches from guard to tip. 440-C

BIG HENRY, STICK - the original, rabbit tang version. Stick it into a stag handle and you have quite a classic. Ed used a rabbit style tang, sandwiching it between stag slabs. Cut out of 3/16 inch thick steel, 5 and ½ inches from tip to guard. ATS 34

GOOD OLE' BLADE - everyone will recognize the origin of this one, and I'm not ashamed to borrow this style pattern since it's probably one of the most copied blades in history. Ours is just a hair wider than the classic original. 440-C, 1/4 inch thick steel stock with 7 inches from guard to tip.

TEXAS CAMP KNIFE - we were going to offer these years back, but thought they might be too big. All of the 20


samples sold and we had guys asking for more, so now it's a standard. The top tapers just a little thinner at the tip and the main, bottom grind is twisted at the tip to carry the weight and strength closer to the tip. Really impressive when it's made up with a simple guard and a crown stag grip. Made from 1/4 inch thick stock, 11 and ½ inches from tip to guard. 440-C.

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Hunters

STOUT ONE - fellows kept asking for a hunting bowie, so this is our new offering. Made from 3/16" thick steel, 6 inches, tip to guard. If the stick tang doesn't appeal to you, order the Stout One blade in combination with any slab handle from another pattern in our line. ATS 34

MAGNUM - A larger version of the 20, but in 1/4 inch thick steel and two inches longer. Good as a working blade or a Western costume type. A good many of our bowies end up at Wild West shoots. 8 and 1/8 inches, tip to guard. 440 C


HUNTERS' CLASSIC - Here's a pattern that's been around since 1880, a fine, small bowie for hunters or collectors. Takes a guard and is drilled for 1/8" pins. Ground from 3/16 inch thick stock, 6 and ½ inches from tip to guard and 11" overall. Tapered tang. Has a narrow false edge, just in case we forget to show that on the 22


drawing again. We are also playing with this pattern a bit, to make it a little narrower and more traditional. 3/16" ATS-34 standard, or special order heavy duty model in 440-C, 1/4" stock.


THE CAPER-SKINNER - this blade might look a little odd with the bump up at the tip, but does it ever work nice! That little bump is rapidly becoming one of the most copied features of Loveless design. Tapered tang and 5/32" thick steel stock, 3 inches of cutting edge and 7 and 3/4" overall. ATS-34

BIG HENRY, STICK - the original, rabbit tang version. Stick it into a stag handle and you have quite a classic. Ed used a rabbit style tang, sandwiching it between stag slabs. Cut out of 3/16 inch thick steel, 5 and ½ inches from tip to guard. ATS 34

Kitchen 23



BANANA - slender, but a surprisingly generous length knife that will fit well in the hand, no matter how you hold it. Use plain slab, or add guard or bolsters. If you want to add the guard, you'll need a dremel tool and cutoff wheels to make a notch for it to fit in. 5/32" thick stock, 4 and ½ inches cutting edge, 9 and ½" overall. We're trying to offer more interesting options with some of these new patterns. ATS 34

SWAGBACK FILLET - a practical fish and camp blade with a grip designed for safe holding under wet conditions. 5/32 inch thick steel stock, 4 and ½ inches cutting edge, 9 and ½" overall. The blade is not flexible, in fact, we go to extra effort to make the tip stronger. Needs no guard, has tapered tang. This is one of Bobs' first dozen patterns that has survived since we started in 1976. ATS-34

TANTILITY - a utility tanto blade, simple to polish and complete with a handle of wood, micarta or antler. 3/16 inch thick steel, 7 inches, tip to guard. We have not used a traditional Japanese tang on this blade because that style is difficult to fit with a handle. It has a blade and tang shape that will work well in a wooden sheath. 440 C or ATS 34

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CHEFS' CHOPPER - classic contemporary lines in a fine kitchen knife. Use a sharp ATS steel blade and you'll never be happy with anything else. Plenty of clearance for the knuckles, but watch out for the fingertips. Can also be done with a tip to match the number 14. Made from 3/16" thick stock, 7 inches cutting edge, 11 and 3/4" overall. Handle end is easily rounded if you prefer to order that way. ATS 34

CHEFS' SLICER - big enough to slice a roast ham at one stroke. Completes a handy set of three. 3/16" thick stock, 9 inches of cutting edge, 13 and 3/4" overall. Round end handle available. These are much easier to grind in the 3/16" steel than our others which are in 1/8 inch. ATS 34

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Loveless Style

SLICK - We have a lot of customer interest in the Loveless style chute knife blade. This one is a more refined version that can be done with either long bolsters, a combat micarta grip, or plain slabs with no other fancy work. 3/16 inch thick steel, 4 and 1/4 inches, guard to tip, 9 and 3/4" overall. ATS 34 ADD BOLSTER HOLES



DIXON FIGHTER - a mean Loveless design named after the fellow who ordered the first one. Guard goes on from the front. If you want to pin this guard on, you'll have to order the blade soft in order to be able to drill it to fit the guard. Full length double edge ground, but does not have to be sharpened on top if you want to keep it 26


less menacing. Tapered tang and cut from 3/16" thick steel stock, 6 and 1/4, tip to guard lugs, and 10 and 7/8" overall. ATS-34, heavy duty model in 1/4" 440-C.


THE UTILITY - A Loveless 4" utility improved, tapered tang with a classic shape created by the clip at the tip of the blade. Simple but virtually perfect with the entire pattern devoted to being a utilitarian knife. Cut from 3/16" thick stock, 3 and 3/4 inches, guard notch to tip and 8 and 3/4" overall. No provision for guard, but may be ordered with a #79 type grip if you prefer it with a guard. ATS-34

5" UTILITY - the 5" version of the utility, improved. An elemental design combining the traditional, clipped tip and the Loveless touch. Cut from 3/16 inch thick steel, 4 and 8/8 inches of cutting edge and 10" inches overall. No guard. ATS-34


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CHUTE KNIFE - The classic Loveless. A short, tough looking knife for general use. Clip is sharpenable. Tapered tang, front mounted guard and ground from 3/16" thick stock, 5 inches from guard notches to tip and 9 and 1/4" overall. Longer versions available on special order. ATS-34

BIG APPLE - A lot like the Loveless New York Special. Has a three finger grip. Excellent hide out or concealment type with self defense in mind. This has become our best selling blade, even before it appeared in the catalog. Made from 5/32" thick steel with 3 and 5/8 from tip to lugs and 7 and 3/8" overall. Provision for bolster, but looks great with just a slab handle. ATS-34

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Tanto

LUM TANTO - Well, if your going to swipe designs, get 'em all. Bob Lum makes this fantastic, modern, Americanized Tanto. Tapered tang and designed for bolsters. A few guys report that this one makes one heck of a fillet blade. We'll do these two patterns up as hard edged blades in 1050 steel, on special order. After grinding, the tips are usually a bit rounded, not exactly the straight line that the pattern shows. Made from 3/16" thick steel stock, 6 and 3/4 inches of cutting edge and 12 and 1/4" overall. ATS-34 or 440-C

LITTLE LUM TANTO - more practical working size, and they make a nice matched pair. Tapered tang, cut from 3/16" thick stock and designed for bolsters with 4 and 3/4 inches of cutting edge and 9 and 7/8" overall. We will be happy to round the tip to a more traditional Japanese shape on either of these patterns. ATS-34 or 440-C

TRADITIONAL TANTO - the purists version, straight "Vee" grind, curved tip, every feature correct, except of course, the modern steel we use. It does now have the peaked spine, where we had previously not offered that more authentic feature. Needs Japanese style handle but may have a slab handle on special order. Cut from 3/16" thick stock, 11 and 1/4 inches of cutting edge. ATS-34 or 1/4" 440-C

NEW TANTO - a very simple tanto for the martial arts practitioner. The grip may simply be cord wrapped, or you can use the additional holes to put on a slab handle. Does not take a guard but the front of the handle has been filed true, just in case you want to add one. Price is for the standard version in the length drawn. We can provide this model with blade lengths up to 14 inches long for bamboo cutting, or covering the elbow, on special order. Ground from 3/16 inch thick steel stock, 7 and 1/8 inches from handle notches to tip and 11 and 1/8" overall. ATS 34 steel.

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M. A. S. - Martial arts sword, about twenty inches of blade and a two handed grip that may be wrapped in traditional Japanese fashion, or done like a modern custom knife, 29 and 3/4 inches overall. Slight curvature makes it easier and quicker to draw and the built in guard make it a practical item that doesn't need a lot of expensive parts to finish. Spine is tapered, then flares thick at the tip and the back has the traditional peaked shape. Slightly tapered tang that is large enough for a solid, two hand grip. Balance is wonderful with the weight centering about an inch and a half ahead of the guard lugs! May be special ordered without the guard lugs if you want a version that will take a tsuba. From 1/4" thick steel. 440C

M. A. T. - Here's the matching tanto to make a complete set of Japanese flavored, martial arts blades. The spine is ground narrower towards the tip, then flares where the grind line meets the spine. The extra weight at the tip gives it an incredible chopping cut. We had to taper the tang a bit to make it balance right, otherwise, it matches the 112. These sell like crazy, so stock is usually light. Made from 1/4 inch thick steel stock with 13 inches, tip to guard lugs and 20 and ï¿½ inches overall. 440-C

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Utility


BIG HENRY - The classic working blade. Our slab handle duplicates what Ed did with his stag shape when finishing the grip. It's hard to find stag like that now. 3/16" thick steel stock, 5 and ½ inches, tip to guard, 10 and 1/8" overall. ATS-34

NO PHOTO LI'L HENRY - a slightly smaller version of the classic. Scaled in size to fit in the current idea of a utility knife. 3/16" inch thick stock, 4 and 5/8 inches, tip to guard, 9 and 1/8" overall. If you prefer the stick tang version, see #105. ATS-34

BANANA - slender, but a surprisingly generous length knife that will fit well in the hand, no matter how you hold it. Use plain slab, or add guard or bolsters. If you want to add the guard, you'll need a dremel tool and cutoff wheels to make a notch for it to fit in. 5/32" thick stock, 4 and ½ inches cutting edge, 9 and ½" overall. We're trying to offer more interesting options with some of these new patterns. ATS-34

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SWAGBACK FILLET - a practical fish and camp blade with a grip designed for safe holding under wet conditions. 5/32 inch thick steel stock, 4 and ½ inches cutting edge, 9 and ½" overall. The blade is not flexible, in fact, we go to extra effort to make the tip stronger. Needs no guard, has tapered tang. This is one of Bobs' first dozen patterns that has survived since we started in 1976. ATS-34

CHUBBY - this homely little thing is one of our best sellers! Originally designed to use up those little bar ends that were too short for a regular knife. 3/16 inch thick steel, 2 and 7/8 inches cutting edge, 7 and 1/8" overall. Easy to build and great to use. Needs no guard, has a tapered tang. The small end on the grip fits the heel of the hand without irritation, so you will find it comfortable for hours of use. ATS-34

CHUTE KNIFE - The classic Loveless. A short, tough looking knife for general use. Clip is sharpenable. Tapered tang, front mounted guard and ground from 3/16" thick stock, 5 inches from guard notches to tip and 9 and 1/4" overall. Longer versions available on special order. ATS-34

TANTILITY - a utility tanto blade, simple to polish and complete with a handle of wood, micarta or antler. 3/16 inch thick steel, 7 inches, tip to guard. We have not used a traditional Japanese tang on this blade because that style is difficult to fit with a handle. It has a blade and tang shape that will work well in a wooden sheath. 440 C or ATS 34

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COMPANION BOWIE - a small, stark bowie design that finishes into a beautiful little belt knife. Rather finely drawn in the point but plenty functional and quite dramatic looking. Bob now uses a twist on the grind to make the tip thicker and tougher. Ground from 3/16" thick steel, 4 and 3/4 inches, tip to guard. ATS-34

CHEFS' PARING - very modern styling for a practical, straight edged cooks' blade. Finish with bolsters or a plain handle. The crisply shaped end of the tang is not uncomfortable, once a set of handle slabs are installed. 5/32" thick stock, 5 inches cutting edge, 9 and ½" overall. If you would like a tip curved round to match the other two knives of this series, (16 and 17) order a 14-B. We will also make the abrupt ending of the tang into a smoothly curved pattern, if you prefer. ATS 34

LIL' BIRD - a modern utility blade with sleek styling inspired by a George Herron blade we saw about fifteen years ago. It still looks good! Can be done plain or with front bolsters. 5/32" thick stock, 3 and ½ inches, tip to guard, 8 and 3/8" overall. ATS 34

WASP - narrow in the center and stings on the end. Ground as a single edge blade, drilled for bolsters. Makes an interesting costume item and a great letter opener. 5/32 inch thick steel, 5 inch blade and 9 and ½" overall. ATS-34

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S. F. BOOT - we stole this idea from a really slick folder and modified it to what you see. Has a gold rush flavor with mod/tech overtones. Can be done either plain or fancy. There are holes for both front and rear bolsters. Made from 3/16 inch thick stock, 5 inches from tip to guard, 9 and ½" overall. ATS 34


MOUSE CLIPPER - tiny but potent and useful just about everywhere. The more you try the small grip, the more you like it! 1/8" thick stock, 3 and ½ inches, tip to guard lug and 7 and 3/4" overall. ATS-34, sometimes in ATS-34

FOXY - small but boldly styled, comfortable and very practical as a working knife. Very dramatic profile. Takes a guard and has a straight tang. Lots of detail for a small knife in 5/32" thick stock, tapered tang, 3 and 3/8 inches, tip to guard and 7 and 3/4" overall. It is important to remember that blades of this style do not have unbreakable tips. ATS-34

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CAMP KING - full sized, trailing point style for field or camp use with a very modern grip and professional tip. Tapered tang with guard lug and pin holes. 3/16 inch thick steel stock, 4 and ½ inches from tip to guard and 9 and 1/4" overall. ATS-34

SUPER CHUBBY - contemporary design chubby pattern with a bit more character than the standard model. Comfortable grip and a generous choil cutout ahead of the guard lug lets you "choke-up" on the blade. Has a tapered tang and is 3/16" thick stock with 3 and 7/8 inches of cutting edge and 7 and 3/4" overall. ATS-34

'49ER - short, single edged, spear pointed. The sort of blade preferred during the gold rush days and a type made popular by San Francisco cutlers. Our version is with a stick tang but it may also be ordered with a coffin handle. 5/32 inch thick stock, 5 and ½ inches from tip to guard. ATS-34, occasionally 440-C

HUNTERS' CLASSIC - Here's a pattern that's been around since 1880, a fine, small bowie for hunters or collectors. Takes a guard and is drilled for 1/8" pins. Ground from 3/16 inch thick stock, 6 and ½ inches from tip to guard and 11" overall. Tapered tang. Has a narrow false edge, just in case we forget to show that on the drawing again. We are also playing with this pattern a bit, to make it a little narrower and more traditional. 3/16" ATS-34 standard, or special order heavy duty model in 440-C, 1/4" stock.

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JAYS' UTILITY - a pattern borrowed from one of our local makers. Very practical and useful for nearly any field or camp chores and small enough to carry legally in most urban areas. This model is ground from 1/8" thick stainless and doesn't have a tapered tang. Measures 3 inches on the cutting edge and 7 and ½" overall. The current version has a slightly wider grip than earlier models. ATS-34 or 440C



THE UTILITY - A Loveless 4" utility improved, tapered tang with a classic shape created by the clip at the tip of the blade. Simple but virtually perfect with the entire pattern devoted to being a utilitarian knife. Cut from 3/16" thick stock, 3 and 3/4 inches, guard notch to tip and 8 and 3/4" overall. No provision for guard, but may be ordered with a #79 type grip if you prefer it with a guard. ATS-34

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5" UTILITY - the 5" version of the utility, improved. An elemental design combining the traditional, clipped tip and the Loveless touch. Cut from 3/16 inch thick steel, 4 and 8/8 inches of cutting edge and 10" inches overall. No guard. ATS-34



CLASSIC BOOT - a fairly innocent looking knife that can easily pass for a working blade but does excellent duty as a protection blade. Tapered tang, designed for bolsters and can also be fitted with a guard. False edge will not sharpen. Plenty of class for the fellow who wants to really dress one up! 5/32 inch thick steel stock, 3 and 3/4 inches of cutting edge and 8 and ½" overall. ATS-34 or 440-C

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SHARPIE ONE - A trim little pattern with the focus of design on the taper of the blade to a fine point. It's stout, practical and especially easy to finish for a stick tanged knife. The curved cut at the lower back of the blade acts as a guard, so all you need at the front of the handle is some sort of a metal or micarta "washer" to finish and seal there. Works well as a caper, and you'd best not let your cook get hold of it, or it'll be in the kitchen forever. 4 and 3/8 inches from guard to tip. Ground from ATS 34 or 440-C.

SHARPIE TWO - Where number one was a cute little pattern, number two has a visible amount of muscle, even at first glance. It's large enough to work as a camp knife, a big game utility, or if your wife gets hold of it, in the kitchen. The rounded cut at the butt end of the blade makes a foolproof finger guard, and no traditional guard, projecting downward, is needed. Excellent with a stag grip. 6 inches from guard to tip. Made from 440 C steel.

BIG HENRY, STICK - the original, rabbit tang version. Stick it into a stag handle and you have quite a classic. Ed used a rabbit style tang, sandwiching it between stag slabs. Cut out of 3/16 inch thick steel, 5 and ½ inches from tip to guard. ATS-34

SHARK - I can't explain this one. There was some remnant steel around that got made into six of these, and they sold so fast that I didn't get a pattern. Took a couple months to figure it out again. The rear section is ground like an axe, very heavy, and the front part is more like a razor. Lets you use it several different ways, and is unique enough to stop traffic. Why shouldn't we have a dramatic one? Actually, a good working blade. Made from 1/4 inch thick steel with 6 and ½ inches of cutting edge. 440-C 38


TEXAS CAMP KNIFE - we were going to offer these years back, but thought they might be too big. All of the samples sold and we had guys asking for more, so now it's a standard. The top tapers just a little thinner at the tip and the main, bottom grind is twisted at the tip to carry the weight and strength closer to the tip. Really impressive when it's made up with a simple guard and a crown stag grip. Made from 1/4 inch thick stock, 11 and ½ inches from tip to guard. 440-C.

NEW TANTO - a very simple tanto for the martial arts practitioner. The grip may simply be cord wrapped, or you can use the additional holes to put on a slab handle. Does not take a guard but the front of the handle has been filed true, just in case you want to add one. Price is for the standard version in the length drawn. We can provide this model with blade lengths up to 14 inches long for bamboo cutting, or covering the elbow, on special order. Ground from 3/16 inch thick steel stock, 7 and 1/8 inches from handle notches to tip and 11 and 1/8" overall. ATS 34 steel.

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***"YAKIBA' BLADES"*** Bob was in the process of figuring these out for some years, and seems to have nailed it down fairly well. They did crack, every now and then, just to keep him humble. He used a crack detector spray to avoid any flawed blades reaching a customer. YAKIBA means flamed edge, or hardened edge when taken literally. On our offerings, this means that there is a cutting edge with a RC 56 to 58 hardness, about 1/3 of the blade, supported by the mass of the blade which is in the mid-40's of the same RC hardness range. This gives a very high shock resistance and allows the blade to bend quite a bit before getting damaged. (Remember the term "bend". Japanese blades do not have the spring qualities of European types.) Best of all, it can be polished to a finish which will reveal the hardened part of the edge in sharp contrast to the body of the knife. Bob added a hardened area along the spine for several inches, either side of the guard notches, to help reduce bending at the stress point where the grip joins the blade. A poor cutting stroke often causes extreme stress in that part of the blade. Historical, or sometimes, hysterical, writers have greatly exaggerated the cutting abilities of these blades and some customers have been surprised to discover that they do not have magical properties. We offered quite a variety of patterns in the YAKIBA blades. All were authentic, copied from Bob's collection of Japanese texts, which he cannot read. Thank goodness for detailed photos. He also tackled full sized swords and pole arms right up to 30 inches in length on the cutting edge. All blades are measured from the guard notch to tip, in a straight line. Our illustrated offerings are by no means all that you could get and they show only a single version of each form. Virtually any custom design of yours could be done with the hardened edge patterns. Delivery on any Yakiba order may be as long as a year. Properly polished, the unique hardened edge is the most striking feature of the blade. No two will ever be exactly alike, and Bob admitted that there are often some surprises when he checked how patterns worked out in hardening. (There were also some that he threw right back in the stack to do over again.)

SPECIFICATIONS Steel - 1045-1050 with an edge hardness of RC 56 to 58. Body hardness is from RC 42 to 46. Finish - flats of the Vee grind, 220 grit, back 120 grit, guard notches ground square, cutting edge is belt sharpened (and dangerous). Production - flat ground from new bar stock. Hardening - individually clay coated to create the edge pattern, heated in a slot top gas forge and water quenched. Weight - A standard 29 inch blade of average width will weigh about two pounds, two ounces. These are 34 mm high at the Machi and 24 mm at the Yokote. Edge pattern - Notare is standard. We have a lot more control of the pattern on shorter blades. With long blades. you pretty much have to take what you get. Tips generally have a turnback, and there will be some small hard spots along the spine of the blade. To figure Yakiba prices measure from tip to guard notch in a straight line and times that by the price per inch. We do not offer fittings or sheaths for these blades, but can make recommendations for reliable sources if needed. 40


YAKIBA PATTERNS You may order specially ground blades, soft or hardened, or have the blade you've made hardened with a YAKIBA edge ( If it's the right kind of steel.) We are a service oriented shop and will tackle any project that you want, assuming we feel that we are experienced enough at the job to do it right.

HIRA ZUKURI style with MU ZORI, meaning no curvature on a plain, Vee ground blade. Edge and spine might be parallel or there might be quite a taper towards the point. Ground rather narrow and very thick, this would be an example of the traditional armor piercing style, Yori Toshi. No, the clipped tips similar to swords were not for armor piercing. About 95 % of all authentic antique Tanto were this style. Average was 11 inches, but found from 7 to 13 inches.

HIRA ZUKURI with SORI, or some curvature. About the same sizes as #1 but more versatile in that it could be used better in the slashing stroke. Normally ten or more inches long. At eleven or twelve inches, they'll lay back along the forearm and cover the elbow for martial arts practice. Both versions of the Vee ground blades were made in lengths that qualified them as short swords, and occasionally as a full sword.

SHOBU ZUKURI appears to be double edged but isn't. Most had straight backs, but some specimens show a slight curve. Not very large, about six to nine inches long. This style was also made as either long or short swords and may be ordered in those lengths. They make a terrific Daisho.

KEN is one of the oldest shapes with double edges, a rather broad point and the distinctive wasp-waisted look. Antiques range from four inch daggers to full sized swords. Sometimes seen with a strong banana curve. Can also be done with a distinct break at the tip for the older, temple style blades.

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KAMURI OTOSHI has the tip that gives it extra weight for a slashing stroke, and looks absolutely great from the top where it flares out at the tip. Most were straight and from ten to twelve inches long. Many variations in curvature, but hardly any taper in width. No matter what you read in the ads, this is not the tip that Samurai used for piercing armor.

KO GARA SU looks somewhat like a modern bayonet, but dates way back. Some had a much blunter tip and a few were curved. Occasionally seen as a really heavy blade. There are many variations. The most attractive has a near straight back with more taper towards the tip.

MORO HA meaning two edges. This one has a ton of variations. The grind line may be straight or curved, and the back could be as you see, or straight. Size varied from four to ten inches. Can also be done with the grind line crossing from side to side, a striking variation. The oddest have a banana curve.

NAGINATA was a pole arm, from fourteen to twenty inches of blade mounted on a six foot pole that could really clear a path in a crowd. This strongly curved version with the heavy tip is from the later period of Japanese arms when this style had become a peasants' or womans' weapon. Tangs were quite long. I make a few of these up as really wicked Tanto. Irreverently referred to as a "hockey stick". I also make a very nontraditional model of this blade as a wicked tanto with a short tang.

>BR>NAGINATA or NAGIMAKI, but in the earlier style, with less curvature and not nearly so heavily weighted at the tip. Sometimes appears very close to a sword blade. A few had tips resembling the KO GARA SU. These were longer than the late ones, running from 16 to 30 inches. Originally used for cutting down mounted cavalry. This pattern may also be ordered as a short or full sword.

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YARI or spearpoint with a diamond cross section. This type ranged from four to twelve inches. The illustration shows a rather broad version, where most are somewhat more slender. We briefly offered the triangular type but came to our senses after making about a dozen. They warped like crazy.

NINJA style blade, near perfectly straight with an abrupt chisel tip. From 14 to 24 inches, but can be made as a Tanto too, if needed. We cannot recommend using one of these for a ladder as they suggest in the ninja manual.

KATANA or WAKAZASHI shape with the name depending on the length. Katana were over 24 inches. Slight curvature, either over the entire length, or more pronounced towards the tang. Moderately long clipped tip for slashing. From 16 to 30 inches. Shorter blades are scaled narrower and thinned for the proper balance. Many variations of weight, tip length, width and taper are available.

CHISA KATANA was an indoor model, with a full sword cross section and weight. ( Normally, short swords were quite a bit lighter in cross section and narrower.) Curve gave it good slashing characteristic in cramped quarters, with the weight to make it effective. A completely nasty item, sometimes referred to as a bodyguards' blade. Only royalty and samurai could possess a classic, full length sword. Available in the NAGAMAKI grind shown, the SHINOGI grind, like a regular sword, or the plain Vee grind, HIRA ZUKURI. All have the peaked spine.

Source http://www.engnath.com/drwframe.htm July 2011

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Bob Engnath Knife Patterns

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