Your Traditional Knife of the Year 2023 (Easy Tiger, read the rules please! ;))

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Jack Black said:
You have the sort of taste I wish I had Christian, buying relatively few stunning knives, rather than a load of old junk, like me! 🤣 :thumbsup:
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Forced by circumstance Jack. The used knives to be found in these parts really are junk, without any redeeming qualities. I keep an eye out for vintage pieces, but the only stuff to be found are cheap imports.
 
To pick a knife of the year is a daunting task. I have thought long and hard over it for about a week and a half. As I was reflecting and thinking back it foremost reminded me of the great people and friendships. Here is my meager attempt to narrow it down.

This year was the start of my spey obsession. I don’t know what it is about the these speys that lured me in but I really enjoy them and enjoy the hunt. It all started with a Henry Sears and Son that I picked up at the Badger Blade Show. I must of looked over and held the knife about 5 times before I purchased it. Little did I know, this would be the opening of a deep rabbit hole. As much as like them though….none of these are my knife of the year.

My three favorite spey pickups. Henry Sears and Son, Remington, and Western.

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Next candidates would be my GEC 48 trapper, GEC 54, or Northwoods 86 (blanking on the name.) The 54 and 48 were generous gifts from Angry Waiter Angry Waiter and the Northwoods was a gift from JonMcD JonMcD . For that they will have a special place in the collection but alas are not my knife of the year. Blessed to have been taken into the porch community with open arms and receiving all the gifts this year. It was truly amazing and can’t thank everyone enough.

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Last group of candidates is the Lambsfoot knives. I carry one of these everyday. A lambsfoot blade is perfect for everyday carry but also is the catalyst to my many friendships here. The Guardians are an amazing group of people and have built many relationships over there. Over the last year I have acquired a number of nice examples but these three are my favorites. HHB, K’roo, and 2019 Ironwood. The K’roo was a gift from Rufus1949 Rufus1949 and the ‘19 was a gift from Jack Black Jack Black . Two very generous gifts that I will always treasure.

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The finalist are the ‘19 Lamb and the K’roo. I love both of these knives. They represent gifts from two outstanding men and are amazing knives. The ‘19 is a remarkable knife. Sturdy but elegant. The bolster work and covers are beautifully done. Snaps with authority and is a pleasure to carry and use. The K’roo is a perfect example of what a knife maker can accomplish. It is perfectly built and there is not one fault with it. Silky smooth with an amazing attention to detail. Picking one of these is a horribly hard task. Like picking a favorite kid.


And the winner is……


The K’roo lamb. For all the reasons above, is my knife of the year. It is constantly in my pocket and will always be a reminder of friendship. It is nice and thin and rides in the pocket with ease. The blade shape is such a pleasure to use. Always up to the task and keeps a great edge.

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Jakeywax31 said:
To pick a knife of the year is a daunting task. I have thought long and hard over it for about a week and a half. As I was reflecting and thinking back it foremost reminded me of the great people and friendships. Here is my meager attempt to narrow it down.

This year was the start of my spey obsession. I don’t know what it is about the these speys that lured me in but I really enjoy them and enjoy the hunt. It all started with a Henry Sears and Son that I picked up at the Badger Blade Show. I must of looked over and held the knife about 5 times before I purchased it. Little did I know, this would be the opening of a deep rabbit hole. As much as like them though….none of these are my knife of the year.

My three favorite spey pickups. Henry Sears and Son, Remington, and Western.

View attachment 2420331

Next candidates would be my GEC 48 trapper, GEC 54, or Northwoods 86 (blanking on the name.) The 54 and 48 were generous gifts from Angry Waiter Angry Waiter and the Northwoods was a gift from JonMcD JonMcD . For that they will have a special place in the collection but alas are not my knife of the year. Blessed to have been taken into the porch community with open arms and receiving all the gifts this year. It was truly amazing and can’t thank everyone enough.

View attachment 2420343

Last group of candidates is the Lambsfoot knives. I carry one of these everyday. A lambsfoot blade is perfect for everyday carry but also is the catalyst to my many friendships here. The Guardians are an amazing group of people and have built many relationships over there. Over the last year I have acquired a number of nice examples but these three are my favorites. HHB, K’roo, and 2019 Ironwood. The K’roo was a gift from Rufus1949 Rufus1949 and the ‘19 was a gift from Jack Black Jack Black . Two very generous gifts that I will always treasure.

View attachment 2420360





The finalist are the ‘19 Lamb and the K’roo. I love both of these knives. They represent gifts from two outstanding men and are amazing knives. The ‘19 is a remarkable knife. Sturdy but elegant. The bolster work and covers are beautifully done. Snaps with authority and is a pleasure to carry and use. The K’roo is a perfect example of what a knife maker can accomplish. It is perfectly built and there is not one fault with it. Silky smooth with an amazing attention to detail. Picking one of these is a horribly hard task. Like picking a favorite kid.


And the winner is……


The K’roo lamb. For all the reasons above, is my knife of the year. It is constantly in my pocket and will always be a reminder of friendship. It is nice and thin and rides in the pocket with ease. The blade shape is such a pleasure to use. Always up to the task and keeps a great edge.

View attachment 2420411

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Great choice Paul.....but with snow?😱
 
kamagong said:
Forced by circumstance Jack. The used knives to be found in these parts really are junk, without any redeeming qualities. I keep an eye out for vintage pieces, but the only stuff to be found are cheap imports.
Click to expand...
I'm sure you are far too modest my friend, I don't think I've ever seen you post a knife that didn't give me pause to stop and stare, or even take my breath away! :D :) :thumbsup:
Jakeywax31 said:
To pick a knife of the year is a daunting task. I have thought long and hard over it for about a week and a half. As I was reflecting and thinking back it foremost reminded me of the great people and friendships. Here is my meager attempt to narrow it down.

This year was the start of my spey obsession. I don’t know what it is about the these speys that lured me in but I really enjoy them and enjoy the hunt. It all started with a Henry Sears and Son that I picked up at the Badger Blade Show. I must of looked over and held the knife about 5 times before I purchased it. Little did I know, this would be the opening of a deep rabbit hole. As much as like them though….none of these are my knife of the year.

My three favorite spey pickups. Henry Sears and Son, Remington, and Western.

View attachment 2420331

Next candidates would be my GEC 48 trapper, GEC 54, or Northwoods 86 (blanking on the name.) The 54 and 48 were generous gifts from Angry Waiter Angry Waiter and the Northwoods was a gift from JonMcD JonMcD . For that they will have a special place in the collection but alas are not my knife of the year. Blessed to have been taken into the porch community with open arms and receiving all the gifts this year. It was truly amazing and can’t thank everyone enough.

View attachment 2420343

Last group of candidates is the Lambsfoot knives. I carry one of these everyday. A lambsfoot blade is perfect for everyday carry but also is the catalyst to my many friendships here. The Guardians are an amazing group of people and have built many relationships over there. Over the last year I have acquired a number of nice examples but these three are my favorites. HHB, K’roo, and 2019 Ironwood. The K’roo was a gift from Rufus1949 Rufus1949 and the ‘19 was a gift from Jack Black Jack Black . Two very generous gifts that I will always treasure.

View attachment 2420360





The finalist are the ‘19 Lamb and the K’roo. I love both of these knives. They represent gifts from two outstanding men and are amazing knives. The ‘19 is a remarkable knife. Sturdy but elegant. The bolster work and covers are beautifully done. Snaps with authority and is a pleasure to carry and use. The K’roo is a perfect example of what a knife maker can accomplish. It is perfectly built and there is not one fault with it. Silky smooth with an amazing attention to detail. Picking one of these is a horribly hard task. Like picking a favorite kid.


And the winner is……


The K’roo lamb. For all the reasons above, is my knife of the year. It is constantly in my pocket and will always be a reminder of friendship. It is nice and thin and rides in the pocket with ease. The blade shape is such a pleasure to use. Always up to the task and keeps a great edge.

View attachment 2420411

View attachment 2420412
Click to expand...
That is one sweet Lambsfoot Paul, I consider myself lucky to own one of Willem's examples, and to have been gifted it by our generous friend Rufus1949 Rufus1949 :) :thumbsup:
 
Rufus1949 said:
This is my first year to participate on this great thread.
The knives are as diverse as the personalities. I enjoy the intriguing reasons for each person's selection.
Mine was easy, this knife was a gift from Paul@ Jakeywax31. I know it meant alot to him, yet he sent the knife to me. What a well designed and crafted piece of cutlery View attachment 2413023
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That lamb is right where it needs to be. Humbled that you picked it for your KOTY.
Angry Waiter said:
This blue bone 54 was just spot on in every way. I bought it to carry when the Dallas Cowboys were playing football. Once the season started I realized there was another Cowboys fan here that may enjoy it more than I, so it is now with him. Hope it brings us some luck, Paul!
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A very generous gift, Pete. I carry it on every game day. It seems to be working pretty damn good.
Jack Black said:
I'm sure you are far too modest my friend, I don't think I've ever seen you post a knife that didn't give me pause to stop and stare, or even take my breath away! :D :) :thumbsup:

That is one sweet Lambsfoot Paul, I consider myself lucky to own one of Willem's examples, and to have been gifted it by our generous friend Rufus1949 Rufus1949 :) :thumbsup:
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Thank you, Jack. They don’t come better than Bob. Honored to call both of you my friends.
 
2023 was not my year I wasn't able to purchase most Traditional I wanted kept missing drops except GEC 86 Harness Jacks and I'm very happy I scored them
All my 86 HJs are collectiables not carried so they don't qualify and I'm still searching for one to EDC
CK Lion Steel Barlows are one of the best to EDC wish there were more options to choose and get they are a work horse
My 2023 knife of the year is this CK Lion Steel Olive Wood Barlow it's worth every penny

ckow.jpg
 
I have to say the Bunny.

It has been my constant companion since 315 315 presented it to me.

It is just the right size, and rides in my pocket like a good little Bunny.

It makes no pretense of being fancy, just a high quality , no nonsense pocket knife.

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This is pretty easy for me. My KOTY is my Case XX Barlow that I got earlier this Spring. I don’t always post it but it has been a “pocket hog” since I got it. IMG_0624-compressed.jpeg
It’s embarrassing how many pictures I’ve taken of this knife, this one is likely my favorite. IMG_9913-compressed.jpeg
 
Jakeywax31 said:
To pick a knife of the year is a daunting task. I have thought long and hard over it for about a week and a half. As I was reflecting and thinking back it foremost reminded me of the great people and friendships. Here is my meager attempt to narrow it down.

This year was the start of my spey obsession. I don’t know what it is about the these speys that lured me in but I really enjoy them and enjoy the hunt. It all started with a Henry Sears and Son that I picked up at the Badger Blade Show. I must of looked over and held the knife about 5 times before I purchased it. Little did I know, this would be the opening of a deep rabbit hole. As much as like them though….none of these are my knife of the year.

My three favorite spey pickups. Henry Sears and Son, Remington, and Western.

View attachment 2420331

Next candidates would be my GEC 48 trapper, GEC 54, or Northwoods 86 (blanking on the name.) The 54 and 48 were generous gifts from Angry Waiter Angry Waiter and the Northwoods was a gift from JonMcD JonMcD . For that they will have a special place in the collection but alas are not my knife of the year. Blessed to have been taken into the porch community with open arms and receiving all the gifts this year. It was truly amazing and can’t thank everyone enough.

View attachment 2420343

Last group of candidates is the Lambsfoot knives. I carry one of these everyday. A lambsfoot blade is perfect for everyday carry but also is the catalyst to my many friendships here. The Guardians are an amazing group of people and have built many relationships over there. Over the last year I have acquired a number of nice examples but these three are my favorites. HHB, K’roo, and 2019 Ironwood. The K’roo was a gift from Rufus1949 Rufus1949 and the ‘19 was a gift from Jack Black Jack Black . Two very generous gifts that I will always treasure.

View attachment 2420360





The finalist are the ‘19 Lamb and the K’roo. I love both of these knives. They represent gifts from two outstanding men and are amazing knives. The ‘19 is a remarkable knife. Sturdy but elegant. The bolster work and covers are beautifully done. Snaps with authority and is a pleasure to carry and use. The K’roo is a perfect example of what a knife maker can accomplish. It is perfectly built and there is not one fault with it. Silky smooth with an amazing attention to detail. Picking one of these is a horribly hard task. Like picking a favorite kid.


And the winner is……


The K’roo lamb. For all the reasons above, is my knife of the year. It is constantly in my pocket and will always be a reminder of friendship. It is nice and thin and rides in the pocket with ease. The blade shape is such a pleasure to use. Always up to the task and keeps a great edge.

View attachment 2420411

View attachment 2420412
Click to expand...
Great post Paul! Beautiful crew of knives and a great year no doubt.
 
I'm new around here but I'll chime in.

I started off the year focused more on modern knives. I'll avoid those here. Somewhere along the way they started to all look the same. I started to want more soul and personality in my "accumulation". IDK, "Collection" just sounds a little formal. I decided to stop accumulation syndrome and take my time looking for things that really speak to me. To buy with more intent and try to find more special pieces.

I started to look at the modern traditionals at first. I like the idea of a mix of modern tech with more traditional feel. I ended up with a Lionsteel CK01 Roundhead. I like the simple barlows yet with a modern take. I also I wanted to try to make my own scales and screws just make sense. Here it is with some home made Dyed Jigged Bone with MOP Acorn Shield.
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Another modern traditional I picked up and really like a lot is the Fox Knives Elite 271 OL Olive Wood. Great little knife but possibly not for everyone. No nail nick and requires care when closing. Fantastic to me though.
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but ultimately the modern traditionals just don't have the same "life" to them. As a woodworker I tend to like wood. I tend to appreciate simple elegant designs. I started to gravitate naturally more towards traditionals and kept noticing Ebony for it's simple elegance and Desert Ironwood has been a long running attraction. So I started to look in more earnest for those directions.

As I was looking around nothing was really jumping out at me. Lots of likes but no "must haves". Then the GEC #47 were announced. I saw they had both the Ebony and Desert Ironwood and they looked fantastic. Not to mention they are highly valued suggesting they are good. I had yet to own one or handle one. I saw and REALLY like the blue bone ones. I decided that was the more unique one of the lot and my goal. I tried in 4 drops and became sick of the whole game. It's not my preferred way of living to fight in such feats of competition. It happens or it doesn't. I decided it wasn't in the cards and would moved on.

Talking to a friend G Greasepiggy about it, and mentioned he had some GEC he might let go of. He showed me pics and this 2020 #62 Easy Pocket Congress Sambar Stag caught my eye was sent my way. I have a real fondness for small knives as well. I carried a case peanut for quite a while. This is a bigger but still on the smaller side IMO and wow is it cool. It has a lot of wow for me. It arrived shaving sharp with patina and I continue to maintain with the strop. I really love this thing and it gets regular pocket time. This one was a real contender for KOTY but didn't quite reach as high as the KOTY. Maybe over time opinions will swing back this way but right this year the title sits with another.
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Next, just a few weeks later, I saw these beautifil TITUSVILLE CUTLERY -AMERICAN REDSMITH SERIES- Old Man Norman
Barlow - Buckeye Burl Wood Handless and Copper Bolster. I hemmed and hawed for a couple days about the cost. It was more than my "I don't like to spend that much" on a knife and just under my "no way" personal ceiling cutoff limit. Surprised they were still available and they just kept calling me. I decided to go with one of the more unique looking ones with a bit of a stem knot on the scale rather than one of the more uniform ones. I think it gives it a little something extra and makes it special. This thing also gets a lot of pocket time and is very appriciated but not enough for the title.
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Just a couple days after spending at personal highs and already spent way too much that month yet another drop for the GEC #47's with more to offer was available. I almost did not participate but decided to give it another more try and let the fates decide but only as I promised myself not to get upset. I decided to try for the Ironwood since the blue never happened. Perhaps, lady luck would reward my original goal. I also changed tactics slightly and to my surpise I was able to score an Ironwood. When it arrived, my very first thought was a bare hint of disappointment that I did not get one of the super highly figured ones. But, that brief flash was taken over by how vibrant orange this one was. How it radiates and has clean elegant lines with gold accents really plays well with the colors. The feel of it is amazing and the fit and finish and walk and talk are great. This thing has sure wooed me into submission and forced me to name it KOTY. It has been getting the most regular pocket time of the "accumulation" lately.
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So my most recent additions, since like october, have all been the best nominees and knives I will likely treasure for years to come. They are all wonderful but that ironwood tends to bat her eyes at me the most. Switching to searching for the gems and a more personal connection was the right thing to do for myself. Great year. Cheers.

EDIT fix mention
 
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