This is my design for a pack knife.
One meant to be able to split kindling to dressing a rabbit.
(Maybe a big rabbit. ;) )

The blade was forged from a 1 1/8" round bar of a steel called Cru-Forge V.
It is the only steel specifically manufactured to be used in the forging process by knife makers.
There are all kinds of stainless and high alloy steels that have evolved within the cutlery world.
But, this is the only steel made for the forging knife maker.
All the other steels we use, W1, W2, 1095, L6, 1084, 5160, 52100, etc., began their lives as steels used in other industries. We have simply learned to use the qualities through forging.
Cru-Forge V is the exception.
It is a full 1% carbon steel. It contains manganese for deep hardening and Vanadium to create toughness and wear resistance.
So, Cru = made my Crucible Steel.
Forge = for forging knife makers.
V = contains about 1% Vanadium.

Alas, it is no longer made. There is still a nice supply, however.
Really great stuff.

This take-down assembly was made using 416 stainless steel, that I also forged from a large round bar.
The handle is northern California figured walnut that I had professionally stabilized.
And something not many guys do is to produce a full blade length crested spine.
I will be taking this knife to the Blade Show in Atlanta in two weeks.

You continue to turn out quality knives that are also works of art. Someday we will have to get together and decide what you should make for me.

And that will be a day that I will enjoy.

quote eagle93: "You continue to turn out quality knives that are also works of art. Someday we will have to get together and decide what you should make for me."