So, what are some of the best new knives of 2023?

I was originally thinking production, but hey, the more, the merrier!
In terms of production knives, one that really caught my eye is the Ontario Bushcraft Seax. I have always liked the idea of a small seax shaped knife for woods work, and it seems Ontario nailed the design. As far as their steel choice, IMO I am good with 420, but I think it's an unfortunate choice as it will probably mean a lot of folks are going to avoid the knife. With the range of steel alloys that Ontario has often used, I think they should have instead made it in their 5160. Still, it is a very cool new model.


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As for custom knives, right now I'm extremely excited for Ken Cardwell's Clovis-pattern knife. It's a modern take on the original Clovis pattern, which I've included a picture of below. The Clovis culture existed from roughly 13,400–12,700 years ago and is known mostly for producing this pattern of cutting tool. I just bought it today, and I'm expecting to have it in-hand sometime next week. 6 1/8" overall length, with a 3" scandi blade made from 1/8" 1095. Sculpted Wenge wood handle, with a custom sheath made by Shawn (Mountaineer Leather). The sheath has scout loops and holes for a neck carry lanyard, which is how I'll be carrying this.



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These photos show my knife, but the pics themselves are Ken's. I won't have it until it arrives next week.





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In terms of production knives, one that really caught my eye is the Ontario Bushcraft Seax. I have always liked the idea of a small seax shaped knife for woods work, and it seems Ontario nailed the design. As far as their steel choice, IMO I am good with 420, but I think it's an unfortunate choice as it will probably mean a lot of folks are going to avoid the knife. With the range of steel alloys that Ontario has often used, I think they should have instead made it in their 5160. Still, it is a very cool new model.


View attachment 2127699



As for custom knives, right now I'm extremely excited for Ken Cardwell's Clovis-pattern knife. It's a modern take on the original Clovis pattern, which I've included a picture of below. The Clovis culture existed from roughly 13,400–12,700 years ago and is known mostly for producing this pattern of cutting tool. I just bought it today, and I'm expecting to have it in-hand sometime next week. 6 1/8" overall length, with a 3" scandi blade made from 1/8" 1095. Sculpted Wenge wood handle, with a custom sheath made by Shawn (Mountaineer Leather). The sheath has scout loops and holes for a neck carry lanyard, which is how I'll be carrying this.



View attachment 2127698




These photos show my knife, but the pics themselves are Ken's. I won't have it until it arrives next week.





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For a second, I thought you purchased a custom flint knife... that would be badass!
Thanks for sharing!
 
For a second, I thought you purchased a custom flint knife... that would be badass!
Thanks for sharing!
I almost have, on a couple occasions lol. There are some extraordinary flint knappers out there, and a lot of their work is breathtaking.

I've taken some knapping courses and can do some rudimentary stuff, but nothing impressive. It is a cool craft though.
 
Spyderco Manix 2 15V BBB Sprint Run

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In terms of production knives, one that really caught my eye is the Ontario Bushcraft Seax. I have always liked the idea of a small seax shaped knife for woods work, and it seems Ontario nailed the design. As far as their steel choice, IMO I am good with 420, but I think it's an unfortunate choice as it will probably mean a lot of folks are going to avoid the knife. With the range of steel alloys that Ontario has often used, I think they should have instead made it in their 5160. Still, it is a very cool new model.


View attachment 2127699



As for custom knives, right now I'm extremely excited for Ken Cardwell's Clovis-pattern knife. It's a modern take on the original Clovis pattern, which I've included a picture of below. The Clovis culture existed from roughly 13,400–12,700 years ago and is known mostly for producing this pattern of cutting tool. I just bought it today, and I'm expecting to have it in-hand sometime next week. 6 1/8" overall length, with a 3" scandi blade made from 1/8" 1095. Sculpted Wenge wood handle, with a custom sheath made by Shawn (Mountaineer Leather). The sheath has scout loops and holes for a neck carry lanyard, which is how I'll be carrying this.



View attachment 2127698




These photos show my knife, but the pics themselves are Ken's. I won't have it until it arrives next week.





View attachment 2127700View attachment 2127702View attachment 2127703View attachment 2127701
Not keen on the Seax, but that custom is inspired, I like it. :thumbsup:
 
the perfect counter point against ALL the over-inflated knife market - usa made kershaw link in 20cv for only $100
nothing really touches this value point, not even close
(also, leeks can be had for $60 using 14c28n - nothing in that lower range bracket comes close value wise imho)

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