Dutch
I understand your plight. I'd like to know what his basic price range is also, just to determine if it would be worthwhile in contacting Joonas about placing an order. So, when you make contact and get a price range, post here so we'll know. I suspect when Mr Kallioniemi becomes a professional full time maker his prices and options will be published and accessible.
Here in the states there is an organization ABS American Bladesmith Society. Typically knives by Master Smith's in the ABS may start well above $1000 some significantly higher. Journeyman smith's knives may start at $200 and go up significantly from there. On the other hand there has be an older retired fellow in Alabama who forged knives in the early American styles with his base price of $60, and that $60 knife has a distill tapered blade with hand filed spine, forged finger guard and premium figured hardwood handles. So, Joonas not being a professional yet, his price range could fall anywhere, right? Isn't that what your concern was?
Remember that Joonas and most of his followers are mostly on the BritishBlades Scandinavian forum. Those fellows are polite to the extreme and non-confrontational. Joonas not being a professional builder at this time, he may not have a set beginning price. I suspect those who have bought knives may feel he 'cut them a special deal'.
So, if you get one of his knives, post pictures and tell us what it cost plus shipping.
