In Les’ latest article of BLADE Magazine, he writes about one of the more complex custom knife construction methods – the FRAME HANDLE HUNTER. He features not only examples of these museum-like knives, but the pre-assembled enterworkings. Josh Fisher’s Forged Ladder Pattern Damascus and Mammoth Ivory Hunting Knife with checkering was also added to the cover of BLADE. IDEAL FRAME UP is the title of the article highlighting how many collectors view these frame handle knives as the sweet spot between a utilitarian hunter and that out-of-reach Damascus Bowie. Dan Lewis, Steve Randall & Bob Earhart are also featured here with their custom forged Damascus Frame Handle Hunters. As ABS Journeyman Smiths & Mastersmiths, they know the challenges associated with this type of custom knife and have overcome them beautifully. Has this sparked your interest? See the links below to other frame handle knives we currently have available and some you may order for future delivery. 

The image below gives you the inside view

of a Frame Handle Hunter and a sense

of what it takes to make it by hand.

The 5 key elements: tang, guard, scales (handle material) and pins.

Another important aspect is a threaded tang and locking nut

to further strengthen the handle.

Mike Ruth Sr. Custom Forged Damascus Frame Handle Bowie with Mastodon Ivory

Mike Ruth Jr. Custom Forged Damascus Frame Handle Hunter with Stag

Steve Randall Custom Forged Damascus Frame Handle Hunter with Mastodon Ivory

Bob Earhart Custom Forged Damascus Frame Handle Hunter with Desert Ironwood

Dan Lewis Custom Forged Damascus Frame Handle Hunter with Stag

Dan Lewis Custom Forged Damascus Frame Handle Hunter with Mastodon Ivory

Josh Fisher Custom Forged Damascus Frame Handle Bowie with Desert Ironwood