- Joined
- Mar 5, 2011
- Messages
- 561
I desired a fixed blade knife for EDC that would be fast and easy to deploy, could be used edge up, edge down, or pikal style. Further I wanted a knife that could alternately be worn concealed very easily or unconcealed, depending on what the situtation called for. I wanted it to be as flat as possible for IWB carry. Further more, I desired a knife that would be small and look attractive in appearance so as not to immediately identify it as a weapon - you know, something that doesn't scream "the ultra death dealer 4000 XL extreme limited black edition plus" - but still be entirely servicle for both daily use and personal defense. I wanted a roughly 3" blade with roughly 7" overall.
In short, I basically wanted a nearly impossible product that could do anything and everything.
I decided on a japanese style blade. specifically, I wanted a traditonal japanese tanto [curved blade and tip, not the american squared stlye]. I wanted a wrapped handle with green rayskin and menuki. I wanted an extremely tough steel, both in regards to edge retention and stain resistance, but I didn't want a "stainless" steel. I spoke with quite a few people,as well as had several threads about various aspects of what I wanted asked over the lst year or so. I decided upon Pohan Leu/Leu custom, and e-mailed him directly to ask about various designs and features. He advised me on sizes, widths and features. The model we agreed on was the "mini-tanto C" in A2 tool steel, and modfied to my particulars.
Mr. Leu advised a roughly 4 month wait, but delivered in just over 2 [this may not be normal, but I very much get the impression that Mr. Leu is the "under promise and over deliver" type]. He kept me updated frequently as to where we were throughout the process. The knife I finally received is exactly what I had envisioned or better! I couldn't recomend dealing with him enough - he was easy to talk to, fast with communication, very honest and forthcoming, and a real pleasure to do business with.
I carry it on a static line carry; a simple slip loop on my belt.
This allows me to draw the knife forward for point up, or by reversing my hand I can draw it tip down, or by grasping palm back in a pikal stlye, all on the same carry method, all at the same time. Further, the sheath comes out with the knife for a limited amount of travel, protecting me from cutting myself untill the edge has cleared my body. At this point, it pulls from the sheath, and is immediately ready for use.
I've been carrying it for a week now - I didn't feel it responsible to post a review without actually having carried it some - and I have to say I'm exceptionally pleased. It rides well while walking, sitting in a car/at a desk, and because the belt provides tension to the body it never falls out, yet draws with ease. it draws in every fashion I've devised fast and smooth yet safe, and hasn't dulled one iota that I can tell, and is sharp enough to shave the entire arm with one push. I can wear it left or right hand side too - very nice!
The looks are stunner too, as far as I'm concerned.
Overall, one of the finest knife purchased I've ever made!
I'd like to thank Pohan for working with me and making me such a fine piece that I will truly use, cherish and admire every day! Any question, comments or concerns? I'll try to answer as best I can.
Thanks for looking everyone!
In short, I basically wanted a nearly impossible product that could do anything and everything.
I decided on a japanese style blade. specifically, I wanted a traditonal japanese tanto [curved blade and tip, not the american squared stlye]. I wanted a wrapped handle with green rayskin and menuki. I wanted an extremely tough steel, both in regards to edge retention and stain resistance, but I didn't want a "stainless" steel. I spoke with quite a few people,as well as had several threads about various aspects of what I wanted asked over the lst year or so. I decided upon Pohan Leu/Leu custom, and e-mailed him directly to ask about various designs and features. He advised me on sizes, widths and features. The model we agreed on was the "mini-tanto C" in A2 tool steel, and modfied to my particulars.
Mr. Leu advised a roughly 4 month wait, but delivered in just over 2 [this may not be normal, but I very much get the impression that Mr. Leu is the "under promise and over deliver" type]. He kept me updated frequently as to where we were throughout the process. The knife I finally received is exactly what I had envisioned or better! I couldn't recomend dealing with him enough - he was easy to talk to, fast with communication, very honest and forthcoming, and a real pleasure to do business with.
I carry it on a static line carry; a simple slip loop on my belt.
This allows me to draw the knife forward for point up, or by reversing my hand I can draw it tip down, or by grasping palm back in a pikal stlye, all on the same carry method, all at the same time. Further, the sheath comes out with the knife for a limited amount of travel, protecting me from cutting myself untill the edge has cleared my body. At this point, it pulls from the sheath, and is immediately ready for use.
I've been carrying it for a week now - I didn't feel it responsible to post a review without actually having carried it some - and I have to say I'm exceptionally pleased. It rides well while walking, sitting in a car/at a desk, and because the belt provides tension to the body it never falls out, yet draws with ease. it draws in every fashion I've devised fast and smooth yet safe, and hasn't dulled one iota that I can tell, and is sharp enough to shave the entire arm with one push. I can wear it left or right hand side too - very nice!
The looks are stunner too, as far as I'm concerned.
Overall, one of the finest knife purchased I've ever made!
I'd like to thank Pohan for working with me and making me such a fine piece that I will truly use, cherish and admire every day! Any question, comments or concerns? I'll try to answer as best I can.
Thanks for looking everyone!
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