4” Barlow pattern

Really like the vintage micarta, would like to see a spear point and a wider blade as already mentioned above.
 
Thank you all for the compliments. One of the tweaks I want to address Is an extra 1/16 or so added blade height as mentioned. I’ve got plenty of room in the frame for it. Grinder got a little hungry when doing the plunge. I prefer as much blade meat as possible within proportion as well.

The other thing was the blade tipped up slightly. I’ll need to factor that into my final assembly.

Maybe I’ll do a spear one day. This was a good one to build from and learn. First time doing fluted bolsters. Really love the look of them. Need to continue perfecting my patina process. Overall the action on this one is awesome. My best action yet. It’s pinchable too! I dig the low sunk blade and how it vanishes into the pocket effortlessly.
 
a sleek lamb or sheepsfoot blade would also be a nice option to clip and spear

edge cut micarta covers would also look cool with the A2 blade darkened, or exotic wood?

does this knife have half stop?
 
That's a very good-looking knife. As others noted, the blade should be a little wider.

A much bigger issue for me is the alignment of the point. On many barlows (including every one I've ever owned) the point is close to being in line with the lower edge of the handle. (Extend a line forward along the bottom edge of the handle, and it'll hit or just pass over the point.) But on yours it appears that the point is roughly in line (or even slightly above) the centerline of the handle. This is partly an aesthetic thing, but much more a functionality thing - having the edge below the bottom line of the handle, coming back up to a point on the bottom line, makes many cutting tasks easier. I think it also makes it easier to pierce something and not have the blade fold shut.

Aside from this, though, it really is a lovely knife. Nice proportions in the handle, and really good looking bolster. Thanks for sharing these pics.
 
Here is my take on the points you brought up.

I did note that the tip did sadly elevate on me. A problem that often arises when chasing the “flush in all 3” If you know you know. The tip being in line with the lower bolster is common for a typical Barlow clip which also has a high peaked spine. The back square is also quite proud of the blade well. I don’t really follow your thought on the blade folding on the user easier or It not being able to stab or pierce effectively. Elaborate? If anything I think the opposite would be true as far as deflection mechanics go on this trapper inspired blade shape.

This trapper style tip profile is well suited for skinning, dressing small game and most uses. A standard Barlow clip was not what I intended for this piece because it limits the ability to drop the back square lower into the blade well. This being a 4” Barlow compared to a 3.5” also change the proportions when stretching the pattern. Have a look at some of the old old vintage big daddy barlows.

I appreciate your comments and food for thought.
 
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