The dual grind and thicker blade stock indicates some specific purposes for these 2 models. They are definitely thrusters and could be life savers if one is caught in a pinch. The NY Special is made for AG Russell exclusively and is not offered directly from the Dozier shop. This model was originally made by RW Loveless and was based on his Riverside Hideout model, which had a slightly longer blade length. The chest rig (not actually a shoulder rig) works quite well. It is simple and functional. The only change I would recommend are a set of pull the dot snaps for attaching to the belt rather than the use of the current loop thru types where it is required to remove the belt. The nylon straps can be removed and the sheath can be used as a near horizontal belt carry position. The small pinky hook and larger single finger groove allows for a quick draw and then allows for the hand to lock into place into the hammer grip position. IME, it works well for hands on the medium to smaller size.
The Arkansas Toothpick has a round butt profile and is slightly longer overall. It will work better for those with larger hands.
D2 at 60- 61 Rockwell makes for a very hard blade. The Dozier shop has this formula down to the proverbial "T". And I have not experienced nor heard of any reports that they were found brittle. Does that mean its blades will not snap if levered or pryed against another object? I suppose if one tried hard enough, ANY blade will snap.
There was a Bullpup model at the Dozier table this past weekend at the ECCK show. It is a beefier, stouter and slightly shorter version of the NY Special- clip point blade shape, fully tapered tang, red fiber liners, grooved thumb rest, and green canvas micarta.
Acoldspoon, congrats on your new purchase. Keep it close.
N.
