Tom Brown Tracker Design

D

donm1234

Joined
Oct 6, 2007
Messages
37
Hello,

I have only made one knife and that was years ago when I bought a blank from Bob Engnath and finished it.

I would like to find a blank that looks something like the Tracker, anyone know someone who has a design like this?

Maybe there is a maker here that would like to make 1 to 3 blanks of a smilier design if I were to draw a sketch?
 
Welcome. There are plenty here who could make a blank from a pattern for you. What type of steel are you looking for. The size, thickness and your use will also help narrow the proper material choice. Do you want it ground or just a profile. Do you want it hardened. Are you going to grind it or just install the handle. Let us know and I am sure someone can provide what you would like. If you give an location it may even be a maker near you. Thanks, Jim
 
Hello,

I would want a steel that would not rust easy, hold a sharp edge, be able to take some abuse since this design is a knife that could take some abuse.

Size/thickness - Near actual tracker size
Hardened ? I would assume so but please tell me advantages and dis advantages

Ground - Yes

I live in Rancho Cucamonga California ZIP code 91730

Don
 
Here is the problem. I am sure the Tracker is patented and a direct copy would be illegal, unethical and stealing from Mr Brown. Most makers would not do that. If you made a similar design to your specifications it would be a bit different, but there is some etical gray area there also. Most knives are modifications of previous works, but, I looked at the tracker and some of it is pretty specific, The knife would need to be hardened and tempered at some point. I was trying to figure out how close to complete you wanted the blank. You want a blank that is complete except for the handle I take it.
 
I understand that the knife should not be a direct copy and would want some changes but still have a likeness. I see many people here have done the same and as you say many if not most knifes are modifications of previous works.

I only have hand tools, Dremel, drill motor, vibrating sander, files and such to complete the project so I want the knife ground. As for finish an thinking of bead blasting, bluing, or just about anything but a high polish, doing this myself, as well as the handle.
 
Best bet might be to wait around for an abused Tracker knife itself...get one for cheap to mess around with.


But, to answer your question:


donm1234 said:
Hello,

I would want a steel that would not rust easy, hold a sharp edge, be able to take some abuse since this design is a knife that could take some abuse.

Size/thickness - Near actual tracker size
Hardened ? I would assume so but please tell me advantages and dis advantages
Click to expand...

You are probably going to want either well-polished 5160 (which will still rust), A2 (will also rust) or 440C (won't rust, but can take only moderate abuse). Any of the above can be coated to protect it...but the problem with that is when you have to shape the handles...might risk removing the coated - especially on the spine.

1/4"-5/16" thick - at that thickness...really just about any regular knifemaking steel is going to be quite tough.

3V would be, of course, ideal...and perfect. But it's pricey. Your piece will probably set you back $100 just for the steel. :eek:


Best of luck in your search.

The TB Tracker is indeed a copyrighted/protected design...as is the Dave Beck WSK. If you do copy it...put your own spin on it and call it your inspired version. :thumbup:
 
Hi Don, welcome to Blade Forums. I'm sure someone here can help you out or point you in the right direction.

Guys, I directed this gentleman to this forum. I told him this was the place to get in touch with a maker to make him a finished blade blank. Let's help him out :thumbup:

I would recommend a high carbon steel. It will rust if you completely neglect it but will be fine with minimal care.
 
Personally, I got no problem selling you a blank of my WSK...I've got a dozen "in the works" already...but a TB Tracker it ain't. ;)



If you want a "copy" of the original you'll have to go straight to those already making them...and there's just a handful, I think. (excepting the chinese knock-off market :D)

Check out this thread:

CUSTOM WSK's????


Just keep in mind that quite a bit of work goes into the blade, moreso than the average bowie/hunter/etc....so a blank is going to cost more. I wouldn't part with one of mine for less than $175.
 
trackerKnifeLeatherSheath





does any one know anything about this tracker sheath?
 
How about this Tracker sheath? I made it for a member from Alaska for his Linger WSK.











(Click thumbnails for bigger pic.)
 
That's an awesome sheath, Ken! :thumbup:


Email with price/details for similar (for one of my WSKs). Thanks!

Dan
 
Thanks everyone for all of your input and words of wisdom. I have found a knife maker and am working with him now. I have been making some design changes to the handle and even a little to the blade.

Thanks Again
Don
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top