A Classic Fighting Knife

A Classic Fighting Knife:

Undoubtedly Bo Randall was one of the most formative knifemakers of the past 60 years. Bo's Model One was the iconic fighting kife of the 1940-60s. This knife, which bears an uncanny resemblance to a Mod. 1, was made by Kurt Zahm of Indiatlantic, Fla. The resemblance to Bo Randall’s best known creation is unmistakable. A lot of knifemakers today get apoplectic if anyone even makes something vaguely resembling one of their knives. Having designed a few knives I sympayhize with them. But, you should understand that knives are, for the most part, unprotected by copyright laws. I rather think Bo would be flattered by this high quality rendition. Shown with the Zahm is my Kimber Sainless II.
Here is the description as given by the seller. "The 440C stainless steel blade length is 8" and the overall knife length is 13". The blade thickness on this knife is just shy of 1/4" and the blade width is 1-1/4". This is a large knife. The blade is marked ZAHM on the left side, just in front of the double brass guard. The handle is nicely sculpted from a piece of dark maroon Westinghouse Micarta which is set off with some black, white and brick colored spacers where the handle joins the guard. There is a brass tube thong hole in the butt section. A natural colored leather sheath with a pocket for a sharpening stone is included and this pocket contains the original unused sharpening stone."
Typical of most 440C blades it is sharp but not scary sharp. While the knife is solidly built and suitable for serious combat duty it appears to have remained unused. Story has it that it came from a Priest’s collection. The exquisitely shaped handle is reminiscent of Bo’s Border Patrol grip and comfortably fits my hand. I am glad to have this knife in my collection and to share it here with you. I offer my compliments to Mr. Zahm for his design choice and the very high quality of his work.