Tempted to use a custom knife ,but wont.What tempts you to use,but you don't?

G

galloway3m7x

Joined
May 7, 2009
Messages
12
I bought some knives from an auction that belonged to a friend who died , hoping to get some trading memories back. He had massive collection . I managed to get about 30 knives.

Amoung them was an older Jeff Chaffee custom fixed blade with bone stag handles . Looks like he had never used or carried it . It is small fixed blade with a small sheath . I think it may be a caper. It has a 3 1/2 " blade and 7 1/2" overall.The knife is slim and fits my short hands and stubby fingers like Chaffee made it just for me.

I want to use it ,but 2 reasons keep me from it. It belonged to my friend and it is too beautiful too ruin. I want to pass it on to one of my boys.

I been looking for a less expensive knife this size and shape ,but am not having any luck. What factory brands make a narrow bone slab caper?
 
What about getting another similar one made as a user? There are many makers here on the Forum that would work with you on a project like that, for a reasonable price. If you like the style, dimensions and way it feels, use it as a template. That way you get the knife you want while preserving your friends memory and your heirloom piece.:thumbup:
 
I have not thought of that on this particular knife, but have actually drawn knives that I thought was the right size and style for me. How do I exactly go about finding the right Knifemaker ?
 
There are a few things you can check out.

1) First the Knifemakers sub-forums

2) Wilderness and Survival Skills sub-forum. Quite a few quality makers are regular posters there.

3) The Knife Exchange sub-forums are great too. There is a feedback forum and general sales forums.

Click around and ask questions. Folks are really great around here.:thumbup:
 
To me the joy of knives is in the using and maintaining of them it also gives them their own unique character.Wouldn't your son prefer a blade used by you to a sterile one that sat in a safe? That way his using of it would bring back memories of you.
 
galloway3m7x said:
I want to use it ,but 2 reasons keep me from it. It belonged to my friend and it is too beautiful too ruin. I want to pass it on to one of my boys.
Click to expand...

A well made knife will hold up to several lifetimes of use if you take care of it and don't abuse it. The only reason to keep a knife in sterile, unused, condition is if you plan on selling it, and it sounds like you don't.
 
Using it won't ruin it.

While it will reduce the resale value, using the knives will greatly increase the sentimental value to your sons when handed down. It's the memories that are attached to inanimate objects that make them feel like a living connection to our past and those we loved.

Of course if collecting knives is something you share with your sons, then the knives may not need to be used to create a special bond.
 
+1

I would definitely rather get a knife that my Dad used than one that he just had laying around. Does your son also have small hands like yours? Then you would also save him being in the spot you're in now- wanting to use a good knife that fits his hand, but knowing that his father kept it mint...
 
I am torn on this too. The only knife I have that does not get used is a custom made skinner/hunter model that my uncle made. The only reason I don't use it is because my uncle died, and will not be making any more. It is not replaceable. I have other knives that if I loose, I will cry, but not be sick for the rest of my life.

I also regret that I did not skin my first deer with it. I think if I used if for the rest of my life, and passed it on to my son as a well used it would mean more to him (but I might loose it!!!!)
 
If that particular knife fits you and makes you FEEL good then I say you should use it. My custom knives that talk to me and transmits some emotional vibe back to me I use but don't abuse. Others just end up becoming safe queens and usually end up being sold or swapped out. Its kinda like the knife chooses you instead of you choosing it. lol I hope I'm not sounding like a Zen nut:eek:
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top