This little neck knife has a blade shape based on the Nessmuk knife that has been a popular camping and skinning knife since the 1880’s. Even though it is small in size this knife is a handy companion at work, around the home or campsite. It can be used many tasks like opening parcels, harvesting mushrooms, food prep, whittling and processing small game. The blade on this knife shows a nice “hamon” pattern that was formed by applying clay to the blade before heat treatment. The handle scales are from a piece of figured Tasmanian hardwood and shows a lovely chatoyancy. They are attached using copper and brass pins and have a lanyard hole of brass tube for the leather lanyard supplied. The sheath is vegetable tanned cow hide that has been hand tooled with a stylised Australian wildflower design (Bottlebrush). The stamps used are handmade from recycled metalwork files. The sheath is hand stitched with waxed thread and is designed to be worn around the neck using the supplied leather cord. It is barely visible if worn under the shirt. A loop is also incorporated for belt carry if required.

Made by Mark Peters in his workshop at Moreton Bay in Queensland. Please see makers statement below.

*This knife is made from high carbon tool steel. It is not stainless steel and does require some extra care. The blade does have an acid wash treatment but it is a good idea to apply a little vegetable oil to the blade after use. If storing in the sheath for extended periods it is advisable to oil the blade and wrap in food wrap. Remember this is a knife, it is not a screwdriver or prybar.

Statement from the maker:  I make these knives in a style I describe as "Modern Colonial". The tools I use are basic hand tools such as various metalwork files, a hacksaw and wood rasps. The only power tool used is an electric drill for making the holes in the handles. When making objects using this style it takes me back to a time when I was a teenager working on various projects using metal, wood and other materials. I had very little money but was so lucky to have a father who guided me in many different ways on how to use basic tools, recycled materials and develop a “make do with what you have” attitude. It taught me a blend of constraint, patience, resourcefulness, problem solving and quiet craftsmanship. To me “Modern Colonial” is a style, an identity with a clear story behind it. These knives and their sheaths are hand shaped, not machined. They are made with a minimal reliance on power, and use reclaimed or simple materials where possible. The visible tool marks are part of the aesthetic, it is the connection to something real with nothing to hide. People who value handmade objects will understand the meaning behind this.