Updated UF 2

Nathan the Machinist said:
I hate to show a prototype that isn't finished but these pictures illustrate the tweaks we've made to the UF. Be aware this handle isn't totally dialed in yet and I haven't worked out the texture yet. The production model won't be smooth like this but the shape is pretty close to final.



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It is fundamentally similar to the OG UF however I've added some tweaks to the handle that are similar to the tweaks we developed while working out the details on the DEK1 and that sweet sweet jimping that Lorien was wanting me to figure out for years. It was a detail that had been incompatible with our manufacturing process but we've figured it out without needing to add addition fixturing to the process.

The final handle will be a bit more refined and will have the texturing we're known for.


Yes that is antique micarta on the prototype. I don't have fixturing yet to process sheet for this pattern so I needed a solid chunk to hold onto and the antique is the only big solids I have laying around right now. For an number of reasons, this was a particularly expensive prototype...
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way to go:thumbsup::cool:
 
bluemax_1 said:
Not Nathan, but the way he typically does these is that the preorder guarantees you a knife, but as they are completed, some will be made available in Friday sales.
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I'm aware of how things are typically done...but Nathan had said <forgive my paraphrase> the model is going into production for a special customer, and he would take orders for some that could be piggybacked onto that run. Not the typical situation; so I didn't want to assume that sales would be handled in the usual manner.
Thanks :thumbsup:
 
So here is what I think I am seeing.

Looks to me like the biggest changes are in the area of the handle. In addition to the previously-mentioned jimping, there appears to be significantly more palm swell. The spine side of the handle of the UF2 seems to have a lot more curvature, whereas the spine side of the OG UF is nearly straight for a significant portion of its length. Also, the end of the handle appears to be less tapered and "pointed" than on the OG UF. My thinking is that all of this will significantly increase the overall "grip" one has when holding the knife. I like it all.

As far as the blade goes, the pseudo-guard is more pronounced and beefier. Also, it seems like the length-to-width ratio of the blade is less than in the OG UF, but that could be an optical illusion because the grind looks a little different, especially closer to the handle. If this is true, not sure if I like this or not. Probably increases the "utility" part of the UF, but perhaps aesthetically less pleasing.

It will be interesting to me to see a series of side-by-side photos at some point in the future.
 
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The Amazing Virginian said:
So here is what I think I am seeing.

Looks to me like the biggest changes are in the area of the handle. In addition to the previously-mentioned jimping, there appears to be significantly more palm swell. The spine side of the handle of the UF2 seems to have a lot more curvature, whereas the spine side of the OG UF is nearly straight for a significant portion of its length. Also, the end of the handle appears to be less tapered and "pointed" than on the OG UF. My thinking is that all of this will significantly increase the overall "grip" one has when holding the knife. I like it all.

As far as the blade goes, the pseudo-guard is more pronounced and beefier. Also, it seems like the length-to-width ratio of the blade is less than in the OG UF, but that could be an optical illusion because the grind looks a little different, especially closer to the handle. If this is true, not sure if I like this or not. Probably increases the "utility" part of the UF, but perhaps aesthetically less pleasing.

It will be interesting to me to see a series of side-by-side photos at some point in the future.
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The blade is essentially unchanged
 
Earthy said:
That new handle is looking sweet!! The bigger butt and jimping look awesome. Glad the handle texturing is returning.
Same balance as the last version?
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Same balance characteristics. So far the weight is within 1/100th an ounce. It balances on the first finger and feels weightless in hand. A pure fighter would be on the guard, a pure utility knife would be behind the first finger, it's tweaked to land exactly on the first finger.
 
I’ll have to get one of each....DEF for me to admire and enjoy without getting in trouble for carrying, and a standard to carry!
 
I have a question. I know the UF is designed to be a fighter but just curious how it would perform for bushcraft? For me it looks great for hiking since it's pretty dang light for it's size.
 
Hey, anybody have any thoughts about penetrator tip legality in terms of dirk and dagger laws? I'm thinking that if I'm even asking, it's probably not worth the risk but I already own a boot dagger, so.....🤷‍♂️
 
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