Custom patterns that will give you the most bang for your buck

[silenthunterstudios]

I've been looking at of the custom knife patterns out there, primarily the Zulu, the single blade barlow and the sodbuster pattern. I'm guessing that of the patterns out there, these would be the most affordable, maybe the Lanny's clip too. Heck, maybe even the backpocket. Name some other custom patterns, single blade, that shouldn't break the bank for a first timer. I'm looking at stainless or tool steel (premium is fine but not super duper top secret blends), micarta covers are fine, but I would like to go for bone if possible, but not too extravagant. I've been quoted about 350, that same general ballpark is what I'm shooting for.

Feel free to share pics.

 

[kamagong]

I think your best bet is to choose a popular pattern, made by several makers. Let the free market work for you. The Zulu, sodbuster, barlow, and LC are good ones. Might want to look into the backpocket and wharncliffe swayback as well.

- Christian

 

[2Dead]

I second Christian. I'd also suggest a trapper, slim/medium/heavy, as well. In my experience, the covers and blade steel shouldn't make a huge difference in price. Other things like bolsters, shields, file work, premium covers (popcorn stag, ivories, pearl, etc) would make more of a difference.

 

[silenthunterstudios]

I'm not looking for any art knives, just workers. I have really been spoiled by carrying Great Easterns and these Case Bose annuals. The fit and finish is amazing. I'd like to take it up another notch.

 

[timberweasel]

A couple o' years ago, I was looking to have a custom traditional made. Had all the details worked out with a fantastic maker but for some unbeknownst reason, the deal simply evaporated. He just never got back to me... Disappointing; it would have been a knock-out! Ah well.

Take a look at your current collection and choose the size you gravitate to the most. This should help you pick the correct pattern and you'll know your custom will see some pocket-time! If you carry and use your custom, the juice will have been worth the squeeze. :thumbup:

Good luck!

-Brett

 

[2Dead]

I'm not looking for any art knives, just workers. I have really been spoiled by carrying Great Easterns and these Case Bose annuals. The fit and finish is amazing. I'd like to take it up another notch.

I totally understand where you're coming from. I just wanted to say that you shouldn't worry too much between bone and micarta, and probably even the pattern depending on the size. I don't think there will be that much variation if you're getting something 3 1/2 - 4" closed in bone or micarta, stainless or tool steel, unless you do start going for artsy or more complicated patterns.

Take a look at your current collection and choose the size you gravitate to the most. This should help you pick the correct pattern and you'll know your custom will see some pocket-time! If you carry and use your custom, the juice will have been worth the squeeze. :thumbup:

I agree with this as well. What ever you choose, pick one that you'll carry and use.

 

[quattromori]

Dan,
I know I'm partial...but what about a Sardinian traditional friction folder?

Fausto

 

[silenthunterstudios]

That is one to ponder. Carl's knife was really smooth, really nice in a small package.

Brett, you are right. I have some nice bone handled Bose annuals that don't get carried. My wood handled knives get carried though. I guess I can't escape the safe queen mentality.

Trand, you are right. Problem is I carry anything from my Charlow to my ebony Tribal Spear. Whatever I get I will have to carry, i can't afford not to.

 

[FLymon]

My favorite knives are custom single blade Shadow "Trappers" in Micarta. Carry and use has very little impact to the look of the knife. I don't feel like I am "ruining" a pretty knife when I use a custom Micarta Shadow. For me, no better bang for the buck than those knives.

Do a little digging in the "Customs for sale by individual", (advanced search, makers last name as the keyword, search titles only) to get a feel for what you can buy (and hopefully sell if needed) a knife like you want, and buy one.
You should be able to resell it at little to no loss if it doesn't float your boat, and if you like it of course keep it, and you will then have a much clearer idea of exactly what you want when you get in line for a new one from a specific maker.

But be warned, you are starting down a path that may have unintended consequences. Oh sure, you will still "like" your production knives after carrying/using a nice custom, but will you like them enough to actually not carry your custom? Even for one day? Will you become jaded and feel that mere production knives are beneath you?
The time in waiting for a maker in demand is usually measured in years (if you can even get on the list). It's easy to find yourself in line for several custom knives, eventually having to sell knives in your collection to fund the ones that haven't been made yet when you get "the call" that your name has come up.
Will that be you?
It has happened to better men.

Keep your feet on the ground! Don't forget where you came from, and try to maintain some perspective.
Just don't say no one warned you.

 

[Peregrin]

This isn't really an answer to your question, but may be food for thought. Of course you might already know all this. In that case maybe someone else will benefit.

I'd look back through the Knifemaker members threads here in Traditionals. Any of the makers posting here will make you a knife you'll be proud to own. When you settle on one or two you like, reach out to these guys with a request for pricing, based on something similar from them. Also ask them what they like to build in your price range. You might get some more ideas.

They can quote you different handle materials, blade steels, bolsters and bolster treatments, shields etc. In my experience the different options are usually quoted as an add on price to the basic knife. You get to choose what you want and what it will end up costing.

I think one of the big things you'll notice is that wait times will vary widely. Don't be afraid to ask that question. The longer you can wait the more choices in makers you will have.

Good luck and keep us posted!