Is stag a no-no?

[jdm61]

So tell me something, all of youz guyz who have passed the JS test. Is stag a no-no for test knives because it is inherently assymetrical?

 

[Will Leavitt]

Joe, not that I've passed judging but I just saw a picture of Mace's judging knives and at least 1 had stag/antler scales.

 

[Bruce Bump]

I had elk scales on a JS knife and stag scales on a MS knife. Both passed.

 

[Russ Andrews]

Stag isn't a no-no. Two of my MS test pieces had Stag tapers on
them. The judges will look more at how well it's done, than what
its done with...IMO.

 

[Brad Singley]

Hi Joe, Stag is not a bad thing on your test knife. I had the same question when I tested in 07, the reply I got was it needs to be executed right, be of good quality, and be your best work. I know that does not help to much but maybe gives you something to think about.
Joe, good luck to you and if I could be of any help to you during this test please let me know. cp 404-375-9422

Brad Singley
ABS JS

 

[Ed Caffrey]

Its certainly not a "no-no" from the standpoint of it being stag.....it is taking a chance though. Remember that the handles on your knives must be straight and inline with the blade(s). If you happen to use a piece of stag that is curved (which most are), the handle is likely going to be out of line with the blade, and from my experience as a judge at both the JS and MS levles, they will not accept an excuse of "It's stag...and is naturally curved."

I tell you this because during my second year of judging at the JS level, we had an individual who used stag on three of the five knives....all the stag was severely curved.....and that individual tried to make that same excuse. It didn't work, and he did not pass. As I've said before....Remember you are building 5 knives to meet a given set of circumstances. Stick with fulfilling those circumstances and all with go well. Try to impress the judges or try to leap beyond your current abilities, and it will usually end badly.

Remember, Remember, Remember...... Simple designs that are Super clean are what you want to do. Looking back at those who have won the awards over the past several years, its always the simple designs that are executed to the Nth degree that win.

Look at the work of Bruce, Russ, and Brad........ all of their work possesses the base elements that you want to emulate! Its not the bells and whistles that make their knives outstanding, its the understanding and execution of the base elements....and they all do it superbly!

 

[Sam Salvati]

Stag isn't a no-no. Two of my MS test pieces had Stag tapers on
them. The judges will look more at how well it's done, than what
its done with...IMO.

Hey Russ, anyone ever tell you your website is a downright pleasure to peruse, and you have gorgeous knives?

Well it is and you do:thumbup:

 

[BRTATCK]

Hello Joe. I would say unless you have some really stellar pieces that are fairly straight, why chance it. Since you are planning on coming to the Little Rock show, bring a knife with a stag taper and ask the head JS judge, Mike Williams. All of my knives had wood, but I have seen some with stag that passed. The main thing is make them clean, good design, fit and finish, and the best you can make. If you need anything or have any questions feel free to call or e-mail.

Brion

 

[Russ Andrews]

Hey Russ, anyone ever tell you your website is a downright pleasure to peruse, and you have gorgeous knives?

Well it is and you do:thumbup:

Thanks Sam. I really appreciate your saying so.
It's due for an update though...

 

[Mace]

Hey Joe,
One of mine was stag...(mortised). About a week before the show/test I took it out of the case to look it over for the millionth time and the joint had separated a little bit!!! Talk about a freak out! Luckily I was able to tame it before the show.
Stick to what you know, apply what you know, and do nice clean work.
Did ya get a half table or what???????
Mace

 

[jdm61]

Hey Joe,
One of mine was stag...(mortised). About a week before the show/test I took it out of the case to look it over for the millionth time and the joint had separated a little bit!!! Talk about a freak out! Luckily I was able to tame it before the show.
Stick to what you know, apply what you know, and do nice clean work.
Did ya get a half table or what???????
Mace

Actually, no table unless I pass the performance test with Bailey in January.
My problem is that the absolute best knives that I have done so far have been made with stag I guess it is time to dust off those blocks of stabilized wood that I have.