Forthofer knives

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foxdoublegunner

Joined
Aug 20, 2010
Messages
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I recently saw a semi-skinner made by Pete Fothofer of Whitefish, MT with mammoth bark ivory scales and ATS-34 steel. Does anyone have any background information on him or experience with his knives that you would like to share? There doesn't appear to be much information on the internet about him or his knives. The knife looks well made and solid. The design is a bit of a departure from the traditional styles that normally catch my eye but it is attractive in its simplicity and clean lines.

Thanks,
Foxdoublegunner
 
Pete's knives were always of the highest quality. He stopped making a number of years ago as I recall and I'm not sure if he passed but likely STeven will know. Periodically you will see his work on a dealers site.
 
I think that it is spelled Forthofer.
I found this, not sure how old it is?

Forthofer Gunsmithing & Knife
5535 US Highway 93 S
Whitefish, MT 59937-8411
(406) 862-2674
 
Thank you for your assistance.

I was able to speak with Pete Forthofer earlier today using the phone number you provided. He is still making knives although at a reduced rate of about 30-35 per year. At his height of production he stated he was making about 80-85 per year. All of his knives are of his design. He does his own heat treating but has a local saddle maker make his sheaths. The blades are hardened to 60RC. The Forthofer semi skinner knife that my bride just purchased as a gift for me was accompanied by a high quality sharkskin covered cowhide leather sheath. He estimates that each knife takes him 14-15 hours to complete. He has not attended any recent shows. The demands of his gunsmithing business have caused him to scale back on the knife production.

Happy New Year,
Foxdoublegunner
 
I have owned a few of Petes Sheephorn Hunters engraved by Bruce Shaw,they were very functional and beautifully made
Dave
 
Dave et al,
Thanks for the feedback. The concensus appears to be that he is a low volume high quality knifemaker. Makes me wonder why he isn't more well known and why his knives are still fairly reasonably priced for what you get. I guess a lot a lot of that has to do with the fact that he doesn't seem to publicize much and hasn't gotten out to many recent shows. He definitely seems like a "sleeper" but there are probably a lot of high quality, low volume knife makers in the same boat.

Happy New Year,
Foxdoublegunner
 
I have a knife being made by Peter after my wife & I met him & saw his work whilst on holiday in Whitefish. The steel he's using for my Hunter is 154CM , Mammoth ivory scales. Very much looking forward to it!! Pete's a really nice guy too
All the Best, Rob
 
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