Don Morrow Trapper

SharpByCoop

Enjoying the discussions
Knifemaker / Craftsman / Service Provider
Joined
Oct 8, 2001
Messages
12,336
Folks,

I have acquired a number of knives lately, and this is an early favorite. Having a custom 'traditional' knife is more rare for me, but I am enjoying the styles and learning more and more. Don posted a few of his pics on KnifeForums, and I followed his links to his own website: www.morrowcustomknives.com . Once there I fell in love with this beauty and emailed him. We struck a deal immediately.

Click on this pic to view larger composite view:


I noted a number of things about this that I liked and I'll point them out:

All the edges are crisp without being too sharp, including the filework.
Good dual action on the blade opening and closing. (Stops halfway open)
The filework. All three different styles in one piece.
The 'carved bone' scales from M.O.P. Co. Amazing job of recreating stag from bone.
A good finish on all the bolsters and blade. Also the nice bevel on the front bolster.
Precise nail nicks machined in the blades
Very precise blade grinds--especially at the plunge or bevel. Hard to grind recurves in both blades
A consistent secondary angle for the edge along the blades
Subtle jeweling on all four inner walls of the well.
Well-cut and mated dovetails
careful relieving of the liners for the washers and wider ricasso
Very clean and accurate name stamp
The packaging had an addition of a chamois which serves perfectly for cleaning (as I know!)

Don is quick to point out that Bill Ruple shared this particular filework pattern with him. He's right, Bill website has the same style, but this has not diminished my appreciation any. He was accountable and gave credit accordingly. I believe he may be a disciple of Bill's, and as is the case in knifemaking, sharing good tips is the norm.

I own a bunch of fine customs as most of you know, and I have photographed many more. From a value standpoint, I don't own a knife that exceeds this one. I couldn't be much happier. Is this a plug for Don? YOU BET IT IS! ;)

Coop ( I loved this photo shoot. It demanded a collage instead.)
 
Great knife Coop, and I enjoyed your listing of all the particular details you find appealing about the knife. The filework is definitely a thing of beauty. Congrats on your new knife!

Cheers,

Roger
 
I am awaiting a "true" custom from Don.
He will still make a knife to the customer's design - this is becomming a rare practise.
His work is right there up among the best, but his prices not as yet.
Get one while you can!:)
Dirk
 
Wow, nice find...first I have seen of his work.
 
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