which bowie ? Stek or Hankins

[Core]

Looking into getting a big bowie. Have seen the work of STEK who uses damacus and the work of R. Hankins. The bowie I thinking of ordering will be 11-12 inch blade and micarta or wood handle.

Both makers designs look great but more important I would also want the knife to be functional a user blade. I believe that big bowies should be a all around knife good at chopping, slashing and thrusting. I also would want the knife not to weigh a ton.

Any suggestions as to which is THE one to get. Anyone have such knifes to provide feedback ?

 

[Danbo]

I am not crazy about the way the Stek knives are ground. He does some sort of sabre grind, while Mr. Hankins does full flat grinds. A full flat grind gets the nod anyday with me.

 

[Coonskinner]

I've handled some STEK knives, and Craig is a nice guy. But particularly if you want a user, I would go with Robert Hankins. His work has been getting better and better, and you can't go wrong with a maker like that. His prices are also still very reasonable for the caliber of work he is doing.

He is producing some stunning knives that look like they would also be great cutters.

 

[ZENGHOST]

Originally posted by Danbo
I am not crazy about the way the Stek knives are ground. He does some sort of sabre grind, while Mr. Hankins does full flat grinds. A full flat grind gets the nod anyday with me.

I'd have to agree with Danbo on the flat grind--it'll always be my first choice. And Mr. Hankins had a desert ironwood handled bowie in the knife exchange a little while back that was one of the best looking bowies that I'd ever seen.

 

[blademan 13]

Hankins anytime. For a bowie user in the 10"-12" range, you can't go wrong with a nice flat grind on a 5160 blade. I agree that Robert's work has really come along in the past year. Some of his knives lately can be categorized as "stunning". His knives just seem to have a more natural flow to them and a true custom look. The STEKS have always appeared to me a little more sterile looking.