Just thought I would share a quick comparison/review of the two different Northwoods Norfolk models, shown in ebony below.
On the above left is the whittler model, while on the right is the original Northwoods Norfolk. Note the differences in bolsters. The whittler's are plain, while the pen configuration's are slanted, ringed, and pinched.
Here is where you need to make your decision. Main blade length. As shown above, the Norfolk Pen has a much longer main blade. The whittler's main blade has an actual cutting edge of only 1 and 3/4 inches. So, if you like to use your pocket knife on food, especially apply slicing, the pen style might be best for you. However, I do not use my pocket knife on food unless there is no other option (and so far in my life, there have always been other options) so I am just fine with the whittler.
Thickness comparison. Pen on left. Whittler on right. Hardly noticeable. The whittler is slightly thicker, but I feel it is a benefit as it makes for an improved grip.
My Norfolk family snapshot. The mammoth ivory whittler in the center has been my only EDC since I received it five weeks ago. And I don't see it changing anytime soon. As much as I like the Norfolk pen, the long slender wharncliffe felt a little too delicate to me. I worry about it snapping if I were to accidentally torque it. The smaller, stouter blade of the whittler feels more robust to me, while still being thin and a superb slicer. These knives are the sharpest I have received from the Great Eastern Cutlery factory. All have original factory edge that I have yet to sharpen.
I also like the small sheepsfoot blade on the whittler. It's a clam-shell slayer. All around excellent knives.
On the above left is the whittler model, while on the right is the original Northwoods Norfolk. Note the differences in bolsters. The whittler's are plain, while the pen configuration's are slanted, ringed, and pinched.
Here is where you need to make your decision. Main blade length. As shown above, the Norfolk Pen has a much longer main blade. The whittler's main blade has an actual cutting edge of only 1 and 3/4 inches. So, if you like to use your pocket knife on food, especially apply slicing, the pen style might be best for you. However, I do not use my pocket knife on food unless there is no other option (and so far in my life, there have always been other options) so I am just fine with the whittler.
Thickness comparison. Pen on left. Whittler on right. Hardly noticeable. The whittler is slightly thicker, but I feel it is a benefit as it makes for an improved grip.
My Norfolk family snapshot. The mammoth ivory whittler in the center has been my only EDC since I received it five weeks ago. And I don't see it changing anytime soon. As much as I like the Norfolk pen, the long slender wharncliffe felt a little too delicate to me. I worry about it snapping if I were to accidentally torque it. The smaller, stouter blade of the whittler feels more robust to me, while still being thin and a superb slicer. These knives are the sharpest I have received from the Great Eastern Cutlery factory. All have original factory edge that I have yet to sharpen.
I also like the small sheepsfoot blade on the whittler. It's a clam-shell slayer. All around excellent knives.
