Nessmuk, origin?

George Washington Sears, aka Nessmuk, was an outdoor/camping/canoeing enthusiast and author in the mid to late 19th century. He was one of the first pioneers of "ultra-light" style camping. In his writing he mentions his knife, but is not very specific about where it came from or why the blade is shaped as it is. Useful style of knife, however.

Look for Nessmuk's book "Woodcraft" on google. It can be had online for free.

Frosty
 
what is the origin of the nessmuk blade shape?

Nessmuk originated the Nessmuk.

NessmukTrio.jpg


I have a paperback copy, but I was looking for the free copy online. Didn't find it.
 
I'm going to guess that Sears simply had an upswept, Green River style skinner cut down to get the shape.

I like the Nessmuk shape, and I find it a great, all purpose knife for camp craft and food prep. My own Nessmuk is an SDS custom, and my favorite woods knife.
 
It is a neat design, and I have had a few. Traded or sold them all. Scott Gossman made a really nice small one, great utility knife. Another design I wish I would've held on to.
 
what is the origin of the nessmuk blade shape?

As others have said, George W. Sears. He had other tools (double bit axe) made to his specifications so it is possible he had his knife made for him also. It's all speculation though.
 
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