Black Bear
Introducing the Black Bear, a custom knife that represents both rugged performance and refined craftsmanship — a blade worthy of becoming a permanent fixture in the catalogue. Built for those who value precision, heritage, and durability, the Black Bear combines traditional forging techniques with contemporary design to deliver a knife that performs as beautifully as it looks.
At the heart of this masterpiece lies a blade forged in the San Mai tradition down from ¼-inch thick 80CRV2 high-carbon steel with 1084 outer layers, offering exceptional toughness and edge retention. The main body of the blade appears thinner as the flats above the main bevel are tapered to the spine reducing weight without excessive loss of strength. Measuring 8.75 inches from tip to guard and 2 inches wide at the ricasso, it features a distal taper, a wide flat-ground bevel, and a flat spine — a combination that ensures slicing efficiency, balance, and penetrating power.
The hidden tang construction is anything but fragile; the tang begins at 19 mm wide where it joins the blade and tapers to 15 mm near the handle’s end, ensuring a rock-solid connection. The guard, hand-carved from 6 mm antiqued 416 stainless steel, pairs perfectly with a sculpted brass spacer for a timeless, battle-worn aesthetic.
The frame handle design showcases stabilized Murchi wood as its core, fitted with black paper Micarta scales and secured with six bronze pins and a central stainless steel pin anchoring the tang. Finished with a museum fit, the handle transitions seamlessly into the guard for comfort and precision control.
Completing the package is a custom handcrafted full-grain leather sheath, adorned with a kangaroo fur inlay on the patterned retention snap — a distinctive touch that sets this piece apart.
Each Black Bear is unique, and if produced again, handle materials will vary, making every version a true collector’s edition.
