Finally got my digital camera to work, so I needed to pull this thread up for a (maybe) final report.
Last week, I got a box from Minnesota. It said "Priority Mail," but evidently Uncle Sam had been holding it in escrow for a while, because when I talked with Chad Holm, it turned out he'd sent it over a week earlier. All I can say is, it was WELL worth waiting for the pony express to come through, and that I may have the privilege of the finest of the gifts exchanged in this great "exercise!"
Chad was kind enough, and generous enough, to send me a knife he'd made with his own talented hands! Here is a picture, though I apologize for the poor focus:
This is such a beautiful and well-crafted piece. I assume the steel is from am old saw blade, and the handle is Zebrawood with a Jay Massey style epoxy finish. The custom sheath is a perfect fit.
I've always been the best of all my friends at sharpening, but I am in awe of the edge Chad put on this knife. It is S-s-s-s-harp, and so nicely proportioned. The season is over now, but I can't wait for the privilege of trying it on a deer next fall.
Chad, thanks for sharing your talent. I hope someday to learn to build something even fractionally as nice. This is a far from a "White Elephant" as one could possibly get, but it will be treasured and appreciated forever!
Thank you, my friend!
Daryl