Custom Daywear Sgian

**Streetcar** · 26th May 09, 10:17 PM

Not long ago, Joe Gondek posted a thread about a sgian achlais he had completed. I wasn’t in the market for that particular style of knife, but I was looking for a daywear sgian. I sent him a P.M. and we discussed a few options.
When I got home from work tonight, a very special package was waiting for me.

The overall length is approximately 7 ¾”, with a blade just under 4” (cutting edge is approx 3 ¾”).

The blade itself is Damascus from Rab Gordon. (I’ll let Joe chime in on the specifics of the metal and type of horn.)

Detail of the jimping.

Detail of the cap.

What struck me was how initially it looked blade heavy, it is actually very balanced in the hand.

The horn follows the natural curve of my grip, and the cap anchors securely against the lower heel of the palm, providing some additional protection from blade slippage.

While a front grip is extremely natural and comfortable with this knife, it is even better suited to a reverse grip.

The cap is angled and flairs against the index finger...

...while your thumb finds a very natural home over the top.

I am one of those who wants his knives to be practical, rather than just decorative. Joe has put together a knife that is clearly designed to be used, but is also an absolute beauty to hold and display.

To say I am thrilled with this sgian is an understatement.

When my son is old enough, this is a knife I plan on handing down to him.
To echo what others have said, if you have an opportunity to get a knife Joe Gondek builds, do it!