Barry Dawson knives

Joined
Jun 20, 1999
Messages
151

Does any one own any Barry Dawson knives? I would like your opinion on his quality, workmanship, finish, ect. Especially interested in his model -defender-

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janefromnc

walker
 

I own a very old dawson tanto (1989ish) nice fit and finish, sharp and very reasonably priced. If you are looking to buy it is available, contact me
Dave Ellis, ABS, M.S.
Days-619-285-1305
Eves-760-945-7177

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Between my wife and I, we have over 20 of Barry's knives in fixed blades, and folders.I've been buying knives from Barry since 1988, and his workmanship has always been tops.He works only in 440-C, and I asked him one time why he does not experiment with other steels, and he said that with amount of time it took him to perfect the heat treat, he knows he will always get a perfect blade out of it.
I can say he is right, as I have never owned another knife in 440-C that had as good edge retention, and like he says which also withstands the elements of rust, corrosion,etc.
He also makes some of the best swords in the world.
I recommend him highly.He makes some awesome defense blades, as well as hunter style blades.

Just my .02 cents rounded off to a buck.

Larry
 
I always spend a lot of time at Barry's table at the Bay Area Knife Collector's Assoc. show. His small utility knives are very well done, and his swords are very nice too. I would say he is to 440C what Bob Dozier is to D-2. I believe he does a differential temper on every blade he makes.

My favorite is a little 2.5" drop-edge, drop point out of .25" stock, with a three finger handle of tan Micarta. It is a nice little utility blade that is as functional as it is indestructible. It is a prime example of getting the most function and versatility you can out of a tiny piece of steel.

And Barry's a great guy too.
 
I purchased a hunter from Dawson last year after coveting one for a long time. His grinds are just about perfect on all his knives, regardless of model. He really does have a handle on getting the most out of 440C. I've had a number of ATS-34, AUS-8 and assorted high end carbon blades that just couldn't keep up with this one. Excellent 440C beats pretty good ATS-34.
 
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