Rober Hankins' work

t1mpani

Platinum Member
Joined
Jun 6, 2002
Messages
5,515
This isn't really a review, just some general praise. I've received two of Robert's knives in the past few months, both recurves. The first has a full-height convex grind out of 5160, the second is a double edged hollow grind in D-2. I'm relatively new to the custom knife market, and these both had the dual attractions of having neat designs and being something I could painlessly afford.

I guess the thing that really catches me about Robert's work is the attention to detail. He comes up with some really beautiful designs, and his grind lines and general fit and finish are superb. He also understands the human hand better than most, and these handles are among the most comfortable I've tried.

The single edged is the only one I've really used (since I can't carry double edged knives where I am), and my use hasn't been destructive in any way (because I just don't really do that to knives when I can avoid it) but it cuts and keeps on cutting. In three months of use I've touched it up only once, and that was just a few swipes on a superfine steel. As I said, the handle is wonderful, and even when slippery with blood/fat is shaped well enough that I don't lose control of it.

I highly recommend Robert (BF "Blinker") to anybody who's looking for a finely crafted tool that they don't have to be afraid to take out and use. My transition into customs has certainly been a happy one! :D
 
I have Robert's "Bear Slayer" Bowie camp knife, and I'll second the quality of his work. Very comfortable, chops and slices well. And such lovely grinds.
 
Originally posted by berettaman12000
Does Robert have a website? Thanks!

No, but he does have a "knives available" link as one of his signature lines. Go to either of the links I put up above and look at the bottom of his posts. Right now, there aren't any knives available because he's filling several custom orders, but e-mail him and he can give you time-frames, I'm sure. If you go to the Exchange forum and then to Fixed Blades under Knives For Sale down at the bottom, you can see some of the other stuff he's done. Just look for any post in that forum started by "Blinker" :)
 
The single edged is the only one I've really used (since I can't carry double edged knives where I am), and my use hasn't been destructive in any way (because I just don't really do that to knives when I can avoid it) but it cuts and keeps on cutting.

If you want destructive, Robert will build you one...

slayer.jpg


This one has been highly destructive, but the blade is still in great shape.

-- Dizos
 
I have no doubt that mine would stand up to destructive use, but that's what I have khukuries for. ;)
 
I have his S-Guard Bowie// WolfBaine Bowie /Brainscrambler/ Linen micarata Recure/ Satin and Ivory Dagger/ Necessary Force Dagger/ g-10 proto / Driver proto.... OH and did I mention several others on order.....yeah his work just sucks :-)Dont place any orders(He'll never find time to grind mine) Just kidding FLOOD him with business you wont be sorry , I was trying to keep him a secret ...oh well .
Loandr.
 
Back
Top