French Sheepsfoot Belt Knife

[LRB]

A French styled common belt knife with a 6" distal tapered blade of 01 steel. Brass front plate, and steel butt cap. A though tang design with the tang peened over the cap. Grip is of turned boxwood with an oil type finish. Sheath is another vinegaroon stained center seam type with the cuir bouilli hardening treatment. Hope you enjoy a look.
 

[T.C.Albert]

Very nice Wick...I really like that early pattern and think it was way more popular in the early 18th century than is generally realized..
TC

[alyce-james]

As in the past, including work you have done for me, great work. Craftsmenship is out standing. AJ

[LRB]

  Thanks AJ. TC, I think you are right. I know they were very common in Europe, and they were exported to America. How common they became  here, I really don't know.

[Rasch Chronicles]

Hmmm,

Sort of a seax blade. Makes me wonder...

But I really like the overall design, fit, and finish.

What most people won't know, is that the sheath probably takes as long to make as the knife. You have to take into account the shrinkage factor, which is different for every piece fo leather, when making cuir boullie. I am going to take a stab at it here and assume you work strictly with the wax method? Or do you do water and wax?

Best Regards,
Albert A Rasch
The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles
Beekeeping- Just Not by Design…

[LRB]

  Albert, I use the dry heat method. The sheath is thoroughly damped, then slow cooked until dry. Much more contol, minimal shrinkage, same results. Wax is optional with the process. I am still experimenting.

[Rasch Chronicles]

Thanks LRB,

I'll have to read up on that.

Best regards,
Albert “The Afghan” Rasch
The Rasch Outdoor Chronicles
Feral Bull Fighting: Another Chronicles Adventure!

[Tim Crosby]

 Another beauty, Well done.

  Tim C.

[TPH]

Beautiful work - as always.