Couple of D2 prototypes

[SteelSlaver]

I have a bunch of D2 and am working out a knife to make as my 'stock model. Here are test models 1 and 2

#1
stabilized maple burl with red spacers half tang
9 1/2" with 4 3/4" blade. 1 3/4" deep 400 grit finish

#2
black paper micarta and ironwood burl with mosaic pins full tang
9 1/2" with a 4 3/4" blade and is 1 3/8 deep in the blade. Bead blasted blade finish

Both had a 30 min soak at 1850 and 2 hours of dry ice/acetone before a 2 hour 475f temper and are scary sharp.

Comments, questions, suggestions

 

[cybrok]

The second looks great. Classy.

I like the first one except for the pins, not as nice. Two small and one big, something just don't feel right (to me). What are those pins made of?

I also don't really like the red spacers, but I don't like spacers/liners on any knife so don't take it personal.

Overall shape looks good on both knives, but my favorite still is the second (and it has IRONWOOD )

 

[SteelSlaver]

Yes the first one was a test to see how I liked the design and to find any drawbacks to making them. The pins were added for extra security in the guard area after HT (have small carbide drills) and are pure nickel. The big one is a stainless loveless bolt. I decided to go with 2 pins and a lanyard hole on #2. Plus it has Ironwood

 

[SteelSlaver]

Anyone, Likes dislikes. questions anything?

 

[SpearZ]

My choice would be the one on the right! Size of blade and handle I think are perfect.

Blade shape is nice, I like what you did with the choil area and the handling shaping and finger notches look to be just right, IMO, well done.

 

[JerkeeJoe]

I'm not a big fan of the bead blast on the second one, but I do like the handle shape and choice of materials. The bead blast looks blah next to the beautiful ironwood. With a polished or even satin finished blade, this knife would be awesome.

Great work!