Black Ash Hunter

[kbaknife]

I've really been trying to pinpoint a year, but somewhere around '94-'97 I was a member of our local Traditional Archery club and we were having a 3-D shoot at our county fair grounds along a river bottom.
While going from target to target, I found this log about 10 feet long and maybe 7-8 inches in diameter. I couldn't help but try to pick it up and it seemed like it weighed a ton. I brought it home with me and had intentions of cutting it up and having it incorporated into a new riser on one of my new bows.
It never happened.
So, a few years ago I cut it up into blocks and stashed them in the ceiling of the shop where they've been drying. I sent them out a few months back to have them stabilized.
This is one of those blocks.
It has some very unique character and striations that I just don't see in many of the "exotic" woods we use so often.
The blade was forged down from my heavy 5160 stock and the take-down fittings are stainless steel.
I'll be taking this to the United Bowhunters of Illinois annual banquet this weekend where I have a table.
Thanks for letting me share.
 

[prarieboy]

You inspire Me Karl! Thanks C-Ya Bob

[Kevin Evans]

       

[Chris Surtees]

   

[chiger]

I'm with you Karl.  Very unusual.  If it weren't for the long grain/rays I'd swear it was hickory sapling or something.  Very cool.  

Oh, knife is impeccable as usual.  Still lovin' those sexy handle shapes best.

[mastin03]

as usual, really pretty knife!  That wood does have some very subtle, unique character

Just a question though, what was the motivation behind the area of the handle just up from the butt that looks to be dished out?  Is that a personal preference or just "your style"?  I hadnt seen that before until I saw your knives.  I like the looks, just didnt know if it was purely aesthetic or if there was a comfort factor involved.  Thanks

[kbaknife]

It creates a palm swell and fits right into the "pocket" of your hand.
The heel of your hand is a fat part of your hand and fits into that dished out area.
I have had literally countless people say they had concerns about how it looked until they held one in their hand.
Then they bought it.

[mastin03]

makes sense to me.  I figured it was something to do with the way it felt in the hand, but figured i would check anyway.  Thanks for the clarification