The BladeForums.com 2024 Traditional Knife is ready to order! See this thread for details:
https://www.bladeforums.com/threads/bladeforums-2024-traditional-knife.2003187/
Price is $300 $250 ea (shipped within CONUS). If you live outside the US, I will contact you after your order for extra shipping charges.
Order here: https://www.bladeforums.com/help/2024-traditional/ - Order as many as you like, we have plenty.
Based on a sample of one,
The production Hiking Buddy has the best fit and finish of any production knife I own.
It is near flawless. A superb example of what can be achieved with proper execution.
It has no discernible seam at the spine, pommel or swell of the handle and the crenelation if just enough to provide good grip without causing hot spots in long use.
The grind is perfectly even, as is the secondary bevel and the edges have been relieved in all the right places.
The attention to detail is as meticulous on this one as any of my Fiddleback's and it is S35VN. (easily my favorite steel)
If I were to change anything I would only suggest a round-over bit be used to chamfer the fastener holes as that would make the transition smoother. A small gripe that has, in use, caused no issues...
I was lucky enough to score a custom shop version that eliminates the chamfer, has killer burlap, retains the S35VN and in my opinion is the ultimate value in a Hiking Buddy.
If cost is a primary concern the production model is where its at, you will not be disappointed.
HEY, is that a (Bush)finger?
Sorry couldn't help myself, great looking patch, I really need to get one of those myself.
Those are some beautiful pics Jim! I love that arete in the leaves.
These two showed up at my door today! So excited!! The nessmuk is 1/8 tapered tang. Wow the balance is perfect, she's light as a feather as well.
The weather outside is terrible, so I'll have to take some better pictures later.
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Lol yes I did.![]()
Nice set up MajorD. I love that sheath
I'm loving mine. Still hoping to get a warthog hunter sometime!Phillip uses his at the shop all the time. It will eat some boxes up for sure!!
Nice set up MajorD. I love that sheath