My Dream Bowie

Tigermoth

Tigermoth

Joined
Feb 5, 2008
Messages
8
I've always wanted a big Bowie knife so recently I worked with a custom knife maker to create my "Dream Bowie" - The Oak Leaf Bowie. Although I am not a knife maker myself, the process of working with a truly gifted knife maker was one of the most enjoyable experiences I have ever had. And, the result was beyond my wildest expectations: the knife is 17 1/2" overall with a 12 1/2" blade hand forged from 1080 steel, brass S guard, and carved African Blackwood handle. Now, I'm hooked!

The knife designer and maker was Mark Banfield http://banfieldblades.com/index.html

All Photos by Ernest S. Strong, Jr., Tucson,

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All photos by Ernest S. Strong, Jr., Tucson, AZ[/CENTER]
 
That clip is outstanding, and the carved handle and sheath are very well done.

It looks like an awesome specimen of the Bowie genre, Congrats to you and the maker :thumbup:
 
That is an outstanding bowie/sheath combination and both show extreme skill by the maker. :thumbup::thumbup::thumbup::thumbup:

Overall design, execution fit/finish, carving, especially sheathwork is top notch.

I must warn you thought, you could get tar & feathered here for your abundant use of brass on this wonderful piece. Brass seems to be unacceptable on this forum, for the obviously reasons.

As far as I'm concerned, that's what they make brass cleaner for. ;)
 
I was reading your description before I scrolled down to the pictures, and I was kinda doubtful about a big bowie made with wood and brass... But then I saw the pictures. Wow. This is how brass should be used, man. I really think this piece benefits from the warm soft color that was added by the brass fittings- nickel or steel would just make it look too cold in my opinion; all black and silver.
 
the possum said:
I was reading your description before I scrolled down to the pictures, and I was kinda doubtful about a big bowie made with wood and brass... But then I saw the pictures. Wow. This is how brass should be used, man. I really think this piece benefits from the warm soft color that was added by the brass fittings- nickel or steel would just make it look too cold in my opinion; all black and silver.
Click to expand...

I agree possum, if there were ever a bowie/sheath design that called out for brass, this is it IMO.
 
what a great looking knife. You must be very proud!
Thanks for sharing the photos.:thumbup:
 
Congrats on this great Bowie and sheath combo:cool: Although I don't like brass that much Mark pulled it off greatly here. As for polishing...there are other types of materials (silver, mokume, carbon steel to name a few) that also are in need of a bit of TLC and elbowgrease now and again;):D

I own one of Mark's knives and he is a stickler for fit and finish as you can see on this knife as well:thumbup:

I hope for you that this will not be the last knife Mark makes for you. I know it isn't for me. He is currently finishing a set (dagger and fighter) for me that I will show shortly.


Marcel
 
Very nice, the brass compliments this traditional style with style. The oak leaf carving is beautiful. I can't decide what I like best the sheath or the bowie. Outstanding work Mark.
 
Wow, there are worst ways to start.

Brass is one of the most beautiful, richest, deepest, warmest metal for fittings. The problem is that 15mn later it tarnishes and become dull yellow. Those pictures show the metal at its best.
 
You sure dreamed up a beauty - lots of classic bowie goodness there. I am partial to S-guards and this one looks great. The first class metal and leather sheath is a wonderful touch. I would have chosen stainless fittings if it were my knife, but it isn't. And that's the neat thing about customs - you get to have it your way.

Now that wasn't a terrible tar & feathering, was it?

Thanks for sharing your new piece - you have good reason to be pleased and proud.

Roger
 
RogerP said:
You sure dreamed up a beauty - lots of classic bowie goodness there. I am partial to S-guards and this one looks great. The first class metal and leather sheath is a wonderful touch. I would have chosen stainless fittings if it were my knife, but it isn't. And that's the neat thing about customs - you get to have it your way.

Now that wasn't a terrible tar & feathering, was it?

Thanks for sharing your new piece - you have good reason to be pleased and proud.

Roger
Click to expand...

No, but then STeven hasn't had his say yet. ;) :D:D:)
 
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