New Model in-hand Pics

[bear71]

Since the introduction of some new models with handles that are markedly different to some of the more established models, I have been curious as to how they would feel in hand. Although they look fantastic (of course), and I was positive Andy would never produce a knife with a handle that didn't permit comfortable use, I had some concerns as to whether the more angular designs might prove to be less accommodating.
I was lucky enough to make it to Track Rock Hammer in Spring for the day on saturday and there were 3 of the new models on display - Wingman, Maverick and Renegade.
Unfortunately both my wife and myself are abysmal photographers (unless you like photos of the floor, fingertips or the back of peoples heads), but we took a few snaps of the different models in hand to try to demonstrate how they sit and where the 'humps' on the top of the handle sit in relation to the hand/palm.
My hand is large glove size with a pretty square 4" palm.

Renegade - the least angular of the new models, feels like a Recluse/Leuku


Wingman - HB/F2 Size




Maverick (Drop Point)




Thoughts in next post....

 

[bear71]

Whilst its hard to make a true judgement on a knife without actually putting it to use I was able to at least get to grips, as it were, with the new handle shapes and allay any fears I may have regarding comfort.

The Renegade was easy to love, with no real 'hump' on the top of the handle it had a familiar feel and offered the usual comfort in a number of grips/holds. This particular example was particularly beautiful in natural bolstered Cornflower blue. I also think the blade shape on this knife is one that will appeal to a lot of people, I see it as a Recluse with an exotic twist.

The Wingman was a revelation. Phillip (Vance) had told me he thought it was extremely comfortable and he was not wrong. I couldn't believe how the handle located in my palm and I was able to alternate between a lot of grips easily (not shown due to lack of artistic ability - you'll have to take my word for it!). Whilst the blade shape on this knife maybe one that I would not use everyday, the handle is a real winner and overall I would love to own one of these, maybe I'll let my 1/16" F2 go....

The Maverick, in particular the Drop Point version is the knife I had been really curious to hold as I think the blade shape is amazing. The handle on the Maverick is pretty tall, combined with the angle/'hump' on the top of the handle it certainly has a unique feel. Fortunately for me the shape of the handle fit my hand very comfortably. After a few times setting the knife down and picking it up, it felt very natural and located beautifully in my palm. I think people with large or larger hands will have no difficulty with this handle and will find it locates securely in the palm. My wife, who has tiny hands, loved the knife (amazing green burl may have helped) and repeatedly practised her chopping action with a grip to the rear of the handle and, more worryingly, a repeated stabbing action in my direction which seemed to work just fine.

In summary, after an initial hesitancy I am sold on the new designs. The beauty of handmade knives to me is that each one is unique so whilst 2 Kepharts in 5/32" with tapered tangs can feel very different, so it will be with the new models. I think they look amazing and they are comfortable in my hands, give them a try 'nuff said.

Please add to this with pics in use and opinions.

Cheers,

Jules

 

[Fiddleback]

My wife, who has tiny hands, loved the knife (amazing green burl may have helped) and repeatedly practised her chopping action with a grip to the rear of the handle and, more worryingly, a repeated stabbing action in my direction which seemed to work just fine.

In summary, after an initial hesitancy I am sold on the new designs. The beauty of handmade knives to me is that each one is unique so whilst 2 Kepharts in 5/32" with tapered tangs can feel very different, so it will be with the new models. I think they look amazing and they are comfortable in my hands, give them a try 'nuff said.

Please add to this with pics in use and opinions.

Cheers,

Jules

Man, Jules it really means a lot to see this post. I'm glad you liked the new handles. You better watchout for that stabbing motion. Sounds like she's practicing!!!

It was great to see you again my friend, and was an honor to meet your wife as well.

 

[Mistwalker]

I love the Wingman all around and look forward to landing the right one of those. Though it may be a while before I see one in tapered 5/32. I'd love one in 5/32 CPM 154, and for that I'd be totally happy with the SFT tang. I want a Wingman as a companion general use knife in the field and see it as being extremely useful for me. I think the Maverick is just a really cool knife. I love the way the lines flow together. I may be one of the few who like it better with the trailing point. The deep belly through me off for a bit since I have gotten so far away from thing we did in my family in my youth, but a little walk down memory lane while holding one was enough to inspire me to want to field one. I haven't handled the Renegade quite as much but it's very nice.