Michael Rader Knife

Finally my life has slowed down a little. I promised that I would post a photo of another knife by Michael Rader. Here is one that I bought from the “MastersmithS” shop operated by Bill Malloy in NYC . Bill is a gentleman of the first order and great to deal with. Check out his website. This is an exquisite fighting knife with a very unique curve to the blade and a forged in bolster. There is a European feel to the knife. A strong Scandinavian sense of aesthetics. The 8.75 inch hawkbill blade is razor sharp. A 4.5 inch composite handle made up of different figured woods which is typical of Rader’s later work. Quick handling and light in the hands, this knife is a fast fighter. The mahogany colored pouch-style sheath is nicely carved with a floral pattern. Unfortunately Mr. Rader is no longer making knives. So if you find one you might want to make an investment.
http://www.beautifulblades.com/ 

MIA

I know I have not posted for a couple weeks. I have been travelling and out of town. I promise a new blog shortly. Thanks for checking back and hanging around the White Shadow Dojo blog.

A New Knife Project

Well I have a fascination with Bowies, big camp knives and Kukris. I guess that is no secret. The knife illustrated here is an interesting blade designed by one man and crafted by Michael Rader. Mr. Rader has created some very artistic but NOT art knives over the years. By that I mean his knives have wonderful lines and still remain fully functional. The man who designed this knife also has a good eye for line. The seller admitted to making the handles and adding the ugly yellow paint. The knife is reasonably sharp after what appears to be a well-used life. My project is to strip off the remaining yellow paint and replace the loose handles as well as making a sheath for it.

When I have so many blades already, why go to all of the bother? I guess it is an addiction and an opportunity to play with another blade. I only have one other knife by Michael Rader in my collection and I will feature it next. As this project progresses I’ll keep you updated. Right now I am trying to decide on wood scales for the handles or micarta. I am leaning toward wood. The sheath will definitely be out of leather. Leather is not as indestructible but I think this knife has an old world feel and look that calls out for leather.  

Right now this knife has a terrific balance, with the correct weight-forward, for effortless chopping. Mr. Rader made the blade from about 3/16” stock which will increase its cutting ability versus the 3/8” stock often found in Traditional Indian Kukris.  There is just enough curve to the handle to make it comfortable although it could have been a bit longer and just a little more curved. Luckily I have small hands so it fits me OK. Stay tuned and we’ll see how this knife turns out. Camp knife, fighting knife? Yes it would serve either purpose equally well.