Wilkins Knives Germany

Ryback Bushcrafter Orange with Kydex Sheath

2012-03-15T20:15:00.002+01:00

I have one only Ryback Bushcrafter Orange G10 Grips with matching custom made Kydex sheath. The sheath is fitted with a Spyderco Gclip. The package comes complete as show PLUS a Helikon molle Pouch AND a Fire Steel 2.0 and of course, a Wilkins Soft PVC Logo Patch. SOLD Thanks to Tom B.!

Drop me an email if you're interested! I don't expect to be making any more orange grips in the near future, I am considering offering these Kydex sheaths.

WilkinsGRIP BMGx2 Gripsets in Stock!

2012-03-15T20:09:00.002+01:00

I finished up a batch of grips for the large Griptilians ... I have WilkinsGRIP BMGx2 gripsets in stock in:

• SOLD OUT Medium Textured Ranger Green G10 SOLD OUT
• Smooth Translucent Pale Green G11
• Smooth Translucent Lemon Yellow G11

These gripsets are €142.80 (€120 non-EU sales) each
plus shipping ( €7 Germany, €10 USA, EU and most other countries)

Drop me a line if you'd like a pair ( or 2)!

Here's the new Lemon G11

First Look: Mytuko Mini Lemon & Lime

2012-03-10T19:14:00.000+01:00

Here are two prototypes of the restyled Mytuko Mini. Both of these knives have matt, stonewashed 1.4116 stainless steel blades (4mm thick) and G11 glass fiber grips. The grips are easily removable for cleaning or Paracord wrapping if desired.

The first knife up is the Mytuko Mini Lemon. It features pale, lemon yellow grips with three grooves. These knives measure 13.9mm across the grips. This prototype (so marked on the back of the blade) is for sale at €130.90 (€110 non EU sales). One knife only! The regular production Mytuko Mini Lemons have different markings and a less aggressive stonewashing.

The second knife is the Mytuko Mini Lime. It features pale, lime green grips with three grooves. These knives are slimmer, measuring 11.8mm across the grips. This prototype (so marked on the back of the blade) is for sale at €130.90 (€110 non EU sales). One knife only! The regular production Mytuko Mini Limes have different markings and a less aggressive stonewashing.

Bushcrafter Lemon G11 + One Unique Prototype

2012-03-10T18:18:00.000+01:00

Here's a first look at the Ryback Bushcrafter with the new Lemon G11 translucent grips. This stuff has a lot of glass in it and a pale, lemon yellow color. These knives are in stock for immediate sale at €139 (€116.81 non-EU sales). The grips are slightly thinner than the usual grips on the Bushcrafter. This version measures 13.5mm across the grip. I have multiple examples in stock and ready to go.

I also have one unique Bushcrafter with Brick Brown Micarta grips and a matt, stonewashed blade. This knife also has a unique marking. Price is €139 (€116.81 non-EU sales). See pic below! I only made one of these!

Friday Update

2012-03-09T14:24:00.000+01:00

I've gotten a lot finished this week! As soon as the pics are ready, I will be selling the new Mytuko Minis!

The Htevolutions with pale green G11 grips are in stock and ready to ship, pics are in the work. The price is the same as the Htevolutions with black Micarta grips.

As I finished up some things earlier than expected, I'm working on a new run of WilkinsGRIP BMGx2 gripsets for the large Griptilians. I expect to post those for sale in about a week!

Tuesday Update

2012-03-06T19:13:00.000+01:00

I know I haven't been posting much in the last weeks but I have been working on a lot of product!

I now have WilkinsGRIP BMGmini grips in stock in smooth black G10.

I have updated the in stock page of my website to finally show the great Kydex Slip Sheaths I have for the Mini Thorn Tactical series. I also have Spyderco Gclips which perfectly fit these sheaths if you want to belt carry the knife.

I will be offering all future Kydex sheaths to fit the Gclip. Spyderco's product is very compact while still allowing the knife to be carried on a belt that is up to 42mm wide. The hole pattern on the Gclip is the same as for the Mini Teklock (1" center to center) so it is very useful all around the carry game.

I have the last of the Mytuko Minis ready as well. I will be putting these up for sale as soon as te pics are done. There are two versions: Lemon and Lime.

The Ryback Bushcrafter family also has a new member: The Bushcrafter Lemon.

And last but not least, I am finishing a new run of HTevolutions with pale green G11 grips!

I addition to all that, I am in production with both the Military Utility knife AND the Steak Out Crossover. I should have the first examples of the Military for sale in early April.

I've also been looking at new shop spaces but so far, nothing has worked out.

Thursday Update

2012-02-16T08:39:00.000+01:00

I am going full blast on the new, as yet un-named military fixed blade. These knives are really going to be great.

I also have the blanks about done on the new tactical steak knife. I'm calling this model the Steak Out. Bring one of these to the table you can order your steak extra rare. These blades are made from 1.4116 stainless.

One thing that sets my short run production knives apart from many others is the precision with which I prepare the blanks before sending them out for machine grinding. All of my blanks are either laser or waterjet rough cut slightly oversize. Then I make a fixture and precision contour CNC machine the blank.

I also counter sink all holes and ream to exact size.

In the last week I have reamed and countersunk 3560 holes.

So for all you Beatles fans ... Now I know how many Holes it takes to fill the Albert Hall ...

Kydex Sheaths for Mini Thorn Tacticals are in stock!

2012-02-10T18:50:00.001+01:00

These come complete with a ball neck chain and are compatible with a small Techlok. I have black and a few in orange, blue or brown. I will post pics asap. Price on these is €24,99 (€21 for sales outside the EU).

Thanks for your support!

2012-01-22T16:41:00.000+01:00

I am most grateful for all the email support I have received. I had been keeping the situation private until I was sure the building was actually sold but the situation has been causing me sleepless nights for a while. Now I guess most people understand if I've been a bit testy. Sorry about that.

As everybody can imagine, I've put a lot into my shop over the last 10 years and the thought of seeing most of it on Ebay is a total bummer. I know that at 53, if I loose the shop, I ain't likely to get another one - at least not with a €25,000 cnc milling machine. And honesty, without that machine, knife making can't be more than a hobby for me: as a business/job it would be hopeless.

And exactly what I would do for a business / job, well, that will remain an open question for now.

The biggest killer for any small business is overhead. Overhead too high = business dead on arrival. If I can locate a place where I can work for the next 5+ years at least - that I can pay for - then I will somehow manage the moving costs. If I can't, I will have no choice but to sell out and quit. That's about as simple as I can put things.

I am looking and I do NOT think things are hopeless!

Who knows, maybe I'll end up with a better space than I have now?!

Many people have suggested building a building !! or moving to another city. None of these are going to happen. I reckon most people with any idea about real estate will know why the first idea isn't an option (lack of Capital) and moving away is not an option either. My wife is quite happy in her job and she has been the main breadwinner in the family for a long time now anyway.

What I will miss in relocating is my neighbors around the shop. The other three firms in the same complex have all become friends over the years and we all cooperate all down the line. When I need wood cut, the cabinetmaker upstairs has that covered. When somebody needs a knife sharpened, the knock on my door. I will miss that.

The Berlin district called Wedding where I have my shop now is home to many people of Turkish descent. Over the years I have studied the Turkish language at evening school and gotten to know many people in the area. We talk at lunchtime, they help me with Turkish grammar and it all makes the days more pleasant. I certainly recommend Turkish to anyone interested in languages. It is fascinating. I have also learned a lot about a culture and people about whom I really knew nothing and I've had a chance to hear about a lot of social problems and situations from a perspective I would otherwise not have had access to. If I have to leave the area, I will miss all of my friends there.

But for now the focus has to remain on finding a new spot AND keeping some production going to generate income. Looking at real estate is time consuming.

I do have a few new things in the works: Two - count 'em, 2 new fixed blades. One is kind of a Tactical Steak Knife and the other is a Military Field Knife with hidden tang construction I've wanted to finish for a long time. The Military Field Knife will be going into short run production asap. The knife has a 105mm blade. More info as soon as I can release anything in public.

Thanks again for all your support and good wishes. Keep those real estate tips coming in via email too

Gonna have to move the Shop or shut it down

2012-01-14T10:13:00.001+01:00

For some months rumors have been going around that the owners of the commercial property where my shop is located were looking to sell. As of the 1st of January the rumors are reality. The entire complex has been sold to a company who plan to clear out all renters and convert the old commercial building into luxury living lofts. This affects not only my shop but the three other tenants who all have multiple employees and have been in the building for over 30 years.

Without going into the details, there is nothing we, the current tenants can do about it.

My lease expires in January 2013. I tried to obtain an extension from the previous owners when the rumors began and they turned me down. The new owners will not discuss any extension and I must vacate when my lease expires. I have asked if they would be willing to release me from the lease early if I can find a new space. It would be very difficult for me to pay both rents over months. I hope they will extend me this courtesy.

So now I am starting to search high and low in Berlin for the 80-100 square meters of commercial space I need. If any readers happen to know of anything here in Berlin, shoot me an email pronto! It cannot be located in a building with residential tenants and must be reachable with large, heavy machinery. My mill weighs about 1500 kilos.

I would also encourage anyone who wants one of my knives to buy it now if I have it in stock. When things run out, I can't promise when or if I will make new ones. Also, to be honest, I will need every penny to have the finances needed to get out of this situation without loosing my shop. The move alone will cost a good €6000. I must also face facts, if I can't locate a new space in time, I will be forced to sell the machines and cease operations. I can't move and store the stuff.

As of now, I will no longer be accepting Custom orders. This may change as the situation developes.

I want to take this opportunity to thank all my Friends and Customers for your support over the years. Now, with some Real Estate Luck, maybe I can move to a new shop and keep a' going

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-26T11:54:00.000+01:00

I'm taking it (somewhat) easy here between Christmas and New Year - other than the mountain of paperwork I have to get done for the Taxman!

Still, I wanted to say a big Thank You to everyone for your support in 2011. Operating a small business with enough work for three people and revenues to keep one hanging on is difficult. I really appreciate all the positive feedback. It's always a lift to get up in the morning, turn on the computer and read email from happy customers!

It is already clear that 2012 will be a challenging year. So let's rest up this week and get ready to come out swinging in 2012!

WilkinsGRIP BMGmini TITANIUM Gripsets

2011-12-10T10:44:00.005+01:00

A lot of people have been asking for these and I only had enough Ti to make less than a dozen pair. These are now SOLD OUT!

Grey Ghost Matt

These have been matt bead blasted and then tumble polished for a dead matt grey surface. Everything here is matt fnished.

Grey Stonewash with Bright Details

This version is not bead blasted before tumble polishing. Edges are lightly buffed and the milled BeeSting indentations on the grips remain bright in contrast to the rest of the surface which is matt grey.

Fire Anodized from Bronze to Purple and Blue

These will all be a bit different as I do them with a torch one at a time!

The difference between the Grey Ghost and the Grey Stonewashed is in the details. Grey Stonewashed will be slightly more resistant to showing scratches; Grey Ghost is all dead matt and really elegant.

Each gripset includes a hardcoat anodized Alu spacer and Wilkins W Logo Soft PVC Patch.

SOLD OUT!!

More New WilkinsGRIP BMGmini Gripsets in Stock!

2011-12-06T16:33:00.003+01:00

In addition to the Pale Olive gripsets shown below (don't confuse Pale Olive with Pale Green!) I now also have gripsets in stock and ready to ship made from:

Pale Green G11

Swimming Pool Green G11

Every gripset comes with a black hardcoat anodized Alu spacer and Wilkins W Logo Soft PVC Velcro Patch.

Both of these materials have MUCH more glass than the standard G10 material usually seen. The Swimming Pool Green G11 is really hard due to the high glass content. I don't know if I will be able to obtain any more of this stúff, so if you've been waiting for 'em, now's the Time.

Price per Gripset is €107.10 (€90 for non-EU sales)
plus shipping, €7 inside Germany, €10 for most of the Rest of the World

WilkinsGRIP BMGmini Pale Olive G11: A First for Blog Readers

2011-11-29T19:45:00.002+01:00

I finished 5 pair of Wilkins GRIP BMGmini grips today and am offering these to readers of my blog first ... I just wanna see who's reading this thing!

Evidently a lot of folks are reading, these are SOLD OUT!

Kydex Sheaths for all HTevolution Knives

2011-11-20T15:24:00.000+01:00

I now have Kydex belt sheaths in stock for all HTevolution fixed blade knives.

These may be ordered with a new HTevolution or if you've already purchased a HTevolution, you can now order a sheath without having to send in your knife for a fitting.

Thanks to the fact that blades and grips are precision milled and ground, buyers of sheaths can be assured of a precise fit without any adjustment.

For a limited time, each sheath comes complete with an Original, old-school made-in-USA Tek-Lok belt adapter.

I have sheaths in stock in Black or Flame orange Kydex.

Price for the sheath alone is €55 (€46.22 non-EU sales)
plus €7 for shipping in Germany or €10 shipping to all other EU countries, Switzerland, the USA or Canada.

New Design! Mini Thorn Tactical Fixed Blade

2011-11-18T11:31:00.002+01:00

Here's the newest Mini Thorn Tactical, machine ground from Sandvik's excellent 14C28N nitrogen alloyed stainless steel. The complete knife has a fine stonewashed finish that's durable, easy to keep clean and very forgiving when it comes to small scratches. All edges - except the cutting edge! - are lightly rounded for ease of use.

The blanks were laser roughed and then contour machined by me in my shop. The spine jimping is machined rather than being laser cut and all holes have been hand reamed to size. Finish and grind on these knives is top quality and all vendors are located within the European Union.

The knives come as shown with a removable rubber grommet which is a great help in giving the hand more purchase on the grip without adding weight or bulk.

I have three types of grip scales in stock. This knife is also ideal for users wishing to custom wrap their own grips with Paracord.

A small Kydex slip sheath is also in the works and may be ordered separately. I should have these in stock in late January 2012.

Overall length is 150mm; sharpened blade is 60mm and blade height is 30mm, steel thickness is 3.9mm.

The knives are now in stock and ready to ship!!

Price per knife as shown with rubber grommet in the grip: €100 (€84.03 non-EU sales)
Price per knife with grips of either orange, black or ranger green: G10 €124.95 (€105 non-EU sales)
Postage within Germany is €7
Postage to other EU countries, CH, USA and Canada is €10.
Each knife also includes a Wilkins W Logo Soft PVC Velcro Patch!

Damasteel Gysinge Mytuko Minis in Stock

2011-11-16T12:15:00.000+01:00

I have two Mytuko Mini HGs hand ground from 3mm Damasteel Gysinge PM stainless Damascus steel ready to ship. The knives have grips machined from a new, custom made glass fiber laminate called Longlite.

This material is very similar to G10 except that after exposure to light, it will glow in the dark for up to 12 hours. Unlike some othr glow in the dark products, Longlite is every bit as hard as G10 and just as durable. In daylight it's very similar in color to pale green G10. I'll try and get an evening pic done asap to show how it looks glowing!

These knives fit the standard Mytuko Mini slip sheaths, which I also have in stock.

Monday Update

2011-11-14T20:37:00.000+01:00

Well, the CNC mill is back up and running. The local Haas Tech came round, checked everything out again and installed a brand new 320V Power Supply.

I hope to God this will be the last trouble for a while. In retrospect I should have had him install a new Power Supply right away when the old one failed instead of independently trying to have the old one repaired. In the end that cost me a lot of downtime and money.

Live and learn.

I hope to have another large Ghost Dog Folder and a couple of Leafstorms ready before Christmas. The Leafstorms will have M2 HSS steel blades at around HRC 63-64.

Special Price on HTevolutions with Bocote Grips

2011-11-09T11:49:00.001+01:00

Seeing as how fixing my CNC mill is costing a ton of money, I've decided to reduce the price on HTevolution fixed blades with Bocote Wood grips from €199 to €169. I don't know how long I'll do this ... I have several HTevolutions in stock for immediate shipment, once they're gone that will certainly be the end of the sale but I may end it earlier if I win Lotto or find a shoebox full of cash I forgot I had.

I now have Kydex belt sheaths for all HTevolution knives in stock for immediate delivery!! Price per sheath is €55 (€46,22 non-EU sales) and the first batch includes an old style large Made-in-USA Tek-Lok.

My CNC Mill is still down

2011-11-08T09:51:00.000+01:00

The folks who worked on the 320V Power Supply drove all the way to Berlin from near Kassal on SUNDAY to try and get to the bottom of what made the power supply they repaired fail again.

They re-repaired the power supply and took the small 5V power supply back with them to work on in their shop. They believe this was the root cause of all the trouble.

I hope they're right and will get the 5V power supply back out to me today as promised.

If I don't get the milling machine back working soon ... well I don't want to think about that.

Another Leafstorm VI in stock

2011-11-04T12:48:00.004+01:00

Got this little guy ready go yesterday. The blade is hand ground from 3mm Damasteel powder metal stainless Damascus from Sweden. This is a special pattern called Gysinge and it does look good... hopefully Damasteel will make it on a regular basis.

The grips are stoneswahed and heat colored dark bronze with matching Ti pivot collar and screws. The spacer is made from G11 that matches the grips.

Clip is TiAlN coated and I'm including an extra stonewashed clip too. (Anybody who owns any of my folders fitted with one of these clips can always receive an replacement from me for a nominal charge.)

SOLD

Strange Days have Found Me

2011-10-27T18:52:00.001+02:00

Well, just when you think things can't get weirder ... they do.

I was back in the shop today, turned on the CNC mill and immediately received an error message indicating a major problem.

I thought it might be the power supply which was just repaired a week or so ago. I got the guys who fixed it on the phone and they talked me through a few tests which quickly showed the problem not to be with the power supply. I then got the Haas technician on the phone and it looks like there may be a problem in one of the axis motors (bad) or vector drives (not good).

In any case, the Haas tech will have to come out asap next week and find out what's broken, order the part and either come back and install it or else I'll install it if it's something I can handle.

I just sunk €1200 in the machine and now I'm sure to be out another chunk of change and the machine will be down until end of next week.

On the way back a stone flew up on the expressway and broke the windshield on my car.

When it rains it pours.

Hats off to the Telekom Service Technicians

2011-10-26T18:09:00.000+02:00

The guy working on my problem - which was caused by a massive FU on the part of Telekom in the first place - went rogue and fanangled me my old port on the outdoor DSLAM back. So I once agin HAVE phone service and VDSL25 broadband net access. Not to mention television! Not to mention fax!

What a week of stress for nothing!

Tomorrow I'll be back in the shop.

News not fit to Print

2011-10-20T15:28:00.001+02:00

Well, the cnc mill is back up and running but something went wonky with Telekom while they were switching my service over to an IP telephone system and faster DSL ... now I have NO phone service, NO internet and NO Television.

I have surf stick for temp net access. So if you send me an email now, it make a take a day or 2 to answer.

Also I have a cold and fell like crap.

Did I mention te cnc mill is working again?? I want to close on a positive note...

Ghost Dog Folder for sale from stock!

2011-10-18T10:51:00.002+02:00

Finished this monster Ghost Dog yesterday. The blade is hand ground from 4.3mm stonewashed Becut stainless with a slight false edge. The grips are machined from 3mm 6Al4V titanium and stonewashed to match the blade. The grip overlays are Grade 2 titanium fire anodized mostly blue. The 8mm custom hardened pivot is press fit into the frame and secured with stainless collars and M5 screws, all heat colored.

This is one heavy folder and is too big for pocket carry. That's why it doesn't have a clip. The spacer is made from olive Micarta and uses my one sided lanyard hole. The stop pin is custom made, heat treated and press fit.
Specs:
overall length open: 255mm
blade length: 110mm
knife closed: 145mm
weight: 312 grams

SOLD

New Model: Meet the Mini Thorn Tactical

2011-10-06T06:30:00.001+02:00

This is the first new design I've brought out in quite a while. And as the name suggests, it isn't totally new. The original Mini Thorn design is almost 10 years old and remains the most popular hand ground fixed blade I've produced.

The Mini Thorn Tactical is an updated, highly usable knife building on my experience with the original. The knife shown is one of three design prototypes hand ground from 4mm CPM S30V stainless steel. It is -SOLD- and features a matt grey stonewshed finish and removeable rubber grip grommet. The knife is 150mm long, 30mm high and the sharpened section of the blade measures 60mm.

I will be bringing out a semi-production (machine flat ground) version in time for the Holidays crafted from Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel.

The Mini Thorn Tactical is designed for users who like to customize their knives by adding distinctive Paracord wrapping or individual grip scales.

I plan on offering various grip scales for the production knives as an option as well as a Kydex sheath.

Hopefully my CNC mill will be back in operation next week and I can MAKE SOME CHIPS!

The Last of the Mytuko Major Prototypes

2011-09-29T15:46:00.015+02:00

I only have this one Mytuko Major left, when it's gone, that's the Last of the Mytuko Majors.

Steel: 5.5mm Becut stainless at HRC 58
Grips: black grooved and contoured Linen Micarta
Full tang construction, grips are screwed in place
Overall length: 225mm
Blade length: 105mm

Mytuko Major Prototype 2 WITH Sheath (pic above)

Very long false edge, smooth, fine tumble polished finish

Blade height: 42mm

Price with sheath: €275 (€231.09 for non-EU sales)

My CNC Mill is Down

2011-09-27T08:30:00.000+02:00

Which is a real drag. The power supply crapped out. I sent the powersupply off to an outfit in western Germany who should be able to repair it. A new one costs a lot of money. I hope to be back up in another week or so. Untill then, I'm doing a lot of other jobs I've been putting off ... like sweeping the floor!

New Design: Mini Thorn 2011

2011-09-20T17:15:00.000+02:00

Looks like I finally have the design finalized for my next production knife! This is a substantially overhauled Mini Thorn. Overall length is 150mm, blade length is 60mm sharpened and blade height is 30mm.

The production version will be flat ground not hollow ground like the handmade prototype pictured. Steel stock is 4mm and will remain so in the production run.

The rubber insert in the grip is removable, yet won't come out unless you take it out.

I gotsta' get these ready for Christmas sale!

First Look: Mytuko Major with Restyled Grips

2011-09-17T11:22:00.001+02:00

I finished up the last of the Mytuko Major protos last week. All have black Micarta grips as shown on this knife. This one has a slight false edge and a matt stonewashed finish on the blade. It's a one of a kind. Price is €199 (€167.23 for non-EU sales).

Most of this last batch are unique so I'll be taking individual pics and posting them asap.

A few of the knives have narrower blades and most have unique false edges. I tried out a lot of different styles! Three knives will be sold only with a custom fitted leather sheath. The other knives - including the one show - may be purchased with or without a leather belt sheath.

More pics to come!

Mytuko Major update

2011-09-07T11:27:00.000+02:00

I've redesigned the grip of the Mytuko Major following the lines of the new grip for the Mytuko Mini shown below. All Major grips are done in black Micarta. I have several test knives with variations in the blade shape as well as a couple that are stonewashed matte grey. As soon as I finish these up, I will have them for sale.

A small production run of these is still up in the air. I have to decide if the sales potential warrants the investment. The production knives will most certainly be done from thinner stock, I expect it would be around 4mm+.

2011-09-02T18:05:00.006+02:00

Handground Mytuko Mini V knives in Stock

These are all Sold OUT! Thanks for the great response!!

Next Up: Hand Ground S30V Mytuko Minis

2011-08-31T22:08:00.000+02:00

I'm FINALLY getting the S30V Mytuko Minis finished. These have been in a box on my desk for months.

I redesigned the grips and am making the first ones from Grade 2 Titanium. I also figured out a way to hollow grind the blades that I like better than previous hand ground Mytuko Minis. I expect to have these up for sale by the weekend.

He's a couple of WIP pics from my shop. The first pic shows one of the knives with the grips on for a test fit. The last two show the grips being machined. (It took me 2 full days to make the 5 pair of grips.)

Sunday, Sunday....

2011-08-28T17:39:00.000+02:00

Spent the day FINALLY getting all the Ryback Kitchen knives up on my site for sale that I have in stock. This includes the Carbon Series knives and several RS2s with wood grips.

I also found a box of completed Ryback Series 2 knives I#d totally forgotten. These are all machine satin finished and have grips of either Corian or PE Recycling Plastic that I won't be offering in the future. I decided to sell these knives at a reduced closeout price so check 'em out!

Next up...

2011-08-26T22:06:00.001+02:00

Will be several Mytuko Mini HG's hand ground from S30V with stonewashed finsih. I've had these knives half finished for MONTHS and finally decidied to get down and do 'em up. I will have these ready for sale next week.

New Folders 24th August

2011-08-24T16:55:00.002+02:00

Got those last 2 Leafstorms in S30V finished.
First one up is all matt stonewashed Ti with an olive green G11 grp overlay. The CPM S30V blade is stonewashed to match the grips as is the stainless pocket clip. The spacer is also made from green G11.
This one is SOLD many thanks!

Next Leafstorm is all matt greay stonewashed 6Al4V titanium with matching CPM S30V blade and stainless clip. The pivot collar is fire anodized Ti and the spacers is bright orange G10. This knife features my single-side lanyard hole for slimm pocket carry.

SOLD

Thanks for stopping by!

I hope to have the last 2 Leafstorms with M2 HSS blades ready in September.

Update

2011-08-23T12:18:00.000+02:00

I finished my prototyping job and am back on the S30V Leafstorms.

There is a new addition to the worksop... may I present my new (used) Jun Air 4000-40M compressor! This little guy is about the size of a wash machine and is almost tottally silent when running. I don't think it will put out the air I need for bead blasting but the old compressor wasn't up to that either.

Still more Leafstorms...

2011-08-11T17:32:00.000+02:00

I expect to have the last 2 S30V Leafstorms finished and up for sale by this time next week. After that I think I'll do a couple with M2 HSS blades and after that ... who knows!

...and 1 more S30V Leafstorm!

2011-08-05T20:57:00.000+02:00

This one is actually appearing here on the blog before it makes it to my website. I'm too tired tonight to recode the in stock page ... tomorrow's another day!

This Leafstorm has a stonewashed, matt grey S30V stainless blade. The titanium grips are 2-tone blue / bronze anodized and then stone wshed for a distressed look. The stainless clip is stonewashed to match the blade. This one has the single sided lanyard hole and a black Micarta spacer. Titanium pivot collar is fire anodized. Price is €595 (€500 for non-EU sales)

The next S30V Leafstorm is up!

2011-08-05T17:31:00.001+02:00

This one has stonewashed Titanium grips - 2.6mm lockside, 2mm overlay side - that are anodized dark bronze. The stonewashed matt grey CPM S30V stainless blade is marked with my "W" logo and the stainles clip is stonewashed to match the blade. The pivot collar is fire anodized Ti and the grip overlay is fossilized Bark Mammoth. SOLD

First S30V Leafstorm is up!

2011-08-05T16:31:00.002+02:00

I call this finish Grey Ghost because just about everrything on the knife is finished with a matt stoneswashed surface. The Titanium sacer on this knife is fire anodized mostly bright blue which really pops against the grey. The blade is made from CPM S30V stainless steel. SOLD

I'm working' on 'em!

2011-08-03T18:54:00.000+02:00

Here's a few WIP pics from the shop today. First pic shows me parting off a pivot screw collar from 12mm titanium round stock. The collars then get attached to a fixture where I do the front lathe ops.

Next is a pic from the bench of some Leafstorm parts I'm fitting together. The overlay is some nice bark mammoth. I finished the knife except for sharpening after I took this pic and will be posting it for sale as soon as I photograph it.

S30V Leafstorms are coming

2011-08-03T06:10:00.000+02:00

Got the first of 4-5 Leafstorms finished yesterday with 4mm S30V blades. Most if not all will have stonewashed finish on the blades...

Update

2011-07-31T17:40:00.002+02:00

The Leafstorm with the Bocote overlay is sold!

I expect to have the first pair of Leafstorms with S30V blades up next weekend... let's see if I make it!

Last 2 Damascus Leafstorm VIs

2011-07-31T14:40:00.002+02:00

... at least for a while. Just finished both on Friday and I still have to sharpen 'em! More info etc on my main website.

First knife up has a beautiful 4.1mm blade ground from carbon Damascus made by Norbert Bahl in Germany. The thumb hole does not go all the way through the blade. The grip overlay is Bocote wood; the spacer brown Micarta and the clip is TiAlN coated. This one is SOLD! Thank you that was FAST!

Next up is a Leafstorm VI with a 3.2mm laminated carbon tool steel damascus blade. The titanium grips are fire anodized bronze to blue as indicated in the pics. The Bark mammoth ivory overlay is really beautiful. As most of you know, the prices for premium mammoth have really risen in the last year. A black G10 spacer and matt stonewashed stainless clip finish off this unique little folder. Price is € 737.80 (€620 for non-EU sales).

Last 2 Leafstorms are sold

2011-07-26T18:13:00.000+02:00

Thanks for all the email, looks like both the last 2 posted Leafstorms are sold! One is already out the door and the second will be as soon as the funds arrive. I should have 1-2 more Leafstorms ready next week. Those will be the last 2 with laminated Damascus blades. Once that steel is gone it's gone for good.

Good news is... I brought several CPM s30V Leafstorm blades to the heat treater's on Monday. They should be ready mid-next week. So there will be some S30V bladed Leafstorms ready very soon too.

Next up...

2011-07-24T13:37:00.001+02:00

...another Leafstorm VI with 3.15mm laminated carbon Damascus blade and all 2.6mm titanium construction. Grips are 2-tone blue / bronze anodized with a distressed stonewahing. This is a very durable finish that hides a lot of normal wear and tear. he clip is stainless spring steel with a TiAlN coating. Spacer is pale green G11 with the new single sided lanyard hole. SOLD

Here come those Leafstorms I promised

2011-07-24T13:29:00.001+02:00

First up is a Leafstorm VI with laminated carbon toolsteel Damascus blade. Steel is 3.15mm thick. The grips are 6Al4V titanium fire anodized (mostly blue) with matching custom turned pivot collar. The lock side has a stonewashed matt stainless clip and the other other grip has an overlay made from interior tusk mammoth ivory. Natural color is light coffee with dark sprinkles. SOLD

2 More Leafstorms coming up

2011-07-20T12:53:00.000+02:00

I expect to have the next 2 Leafstorm folders reaedy by end of the week. The first one is done, just need to do the pics. That knife has a laminated damascus blade and Mammoth ivory overlay on one side. Price will be €654.50 (€550 for non-EU sales).

The second knife also has a laminated damascus blade and and distressed 2tone anodized grips. No overlays and a TiAlN anodized clip. Price on that one will be €595 (€500 for non-EU sales).

Now I gotta go finish grinding and etching that blade!

Those Leafstorms sold quickly

2011-07-14T09:30:00.000+02:00

The two Leafstorm folders below are sold. That was fast! Many thanks for the great response, I sure appreciate it.

I have a couple more of the laminated blades ready and will be finishing up some Leafstorms with those in the coming week.

Next up will be a few with S30V blades, I hope to get the blades in for heat trating next week too.

New Leafstorms for Sale!

2011-07-12T19:16:00.002+02:00

ALL SOLD OUT!

I'm calling the first knife a Leafstorm V.5. The blade is a version 5 ground from Balbach random carbon Damascus. The grips and spacer are version 6 with an integral lanyard hole passing through only one grip scale to avoid problems with the pocket clip.

The V.5 knife is shown above and a Leafstorm VI below. The differences in blade profile are evident in the pic.

Now a couple more pics of the Leafstorm V.5. The knife has an orange G10 spacer, stonewashed stainless clip and the grips are fire anodized, mostly bronze but fading out to blue / purple toward the spacer.

Next up is the very first Leafstorm VI. The new version features an integral lanyard hole, pale green G11 spacer as well as a slightly re-profiled blade. I wanted a tad more cutting edge. This blade is made from laminated Damascus forged from 3 types of carbon tool steel. 1.2842 (O2), 1,2519 and 75Ni8. In any case, it's a very nice, rustic looking steel that cuts like a champ.

Here's a few more pics of the Leafstorm VI...

I will be finishing some more Leafstorm VI in the coming weeks. A few more with laminated blades as well as some with S30V and M2 HSS blades! Stay tuned to this channel. :-)

What's the steel plate in the Background?

2011-07-07T12:45:00.001+02:00

That's some of what I do when I'm not making knives... that's a 15mm thick steel plate with a 12mm (almost half inch) deep trench milled in it and some counter sunk holes and other goodies. I don't know exactly what it's for myself! I just made it according to the drawing. Always some serious pucker factor watching a 12mm carbide endmill from Ingersoll fly through the steel like it was butter. Noisy though. With my "little" Haas mill I cannot come close to reaching the speed these cutter are capable of ... still, I ain't complaining!

Mytuko Major in Hand pics

2011-07-07T12:41:00.000+02:00

I had a request for a few quick photos of the Mytuko Major in a hand to show the size relation... and here they are. These are just snaps taken in the shop but hopefully the size of the knife will be clear.

I am making Leafstorms

2011-06-30T15:42:00.000+02:00

I have the first Leafstorm VI done except for sharpening and Logo marking ... better not screw up either of those! The blade is made of some very nice carbon tool steel laminate made up from 1.2842, 1.2519 and 75Ni8 - according to what I have written down about it. I've had this steel for years and these knives seemed like the right time to use it up.

I'll post pics asap.

Visitor Storm on my new Site

2011-06-25T13:02:00.000+02:00

I think N24 must have repeated the Galileo TV report on my work last week. I had almost 700 visitors to the new site on the 20th of June!

Lock Bar is machined

2011-06-23T13:31:00.000+02:00

And here it is all done...

Machining the lock bar bend relief...

2011-06-23T08:23:00.000+02:00

...in a Leafstorm 6 folder. The little titanium grip is attached to a 1 inch thik steel plate held in the vise ... push START and let the good times roll!

News from the Workshop

2011-06-22T15:09:00.003+02:00

Looks like folks are enjoying my new website. Thanks to all who've written. I hope to have the rest of the kitchen knives added to the in stock page by next week. I do have Ryback Carbon Series knives in stock ... write if you can't wait!

I have a lot of work going on these days, not all of it knife related. Some of it hopefully profitable!

But on the knife related front: I'm coming along with the newest Leafstorm 6 folders. Here's a few grips I'm finishing on the work bench...

My new website is online

2011-06-19T17:19:00.001+02:00

Who can believe it? Online Sunday evening as promised.
www.wilkins-knives.com

I hope you all agree the new site is a substantial improvement over the old one.
If not, don't tell me! I worked too hard on the new one to hear anybody doesn't love it!! ;-)

I still have most of the kitchen knives to add to the in stock page and a few minor details ... if anybody finds anything weird and obviously wrong, please DO let me know.

Thanks for your patience!

Working on some new Leafstorm folders

2011-06-12T11:18:00.001+02:00

Last week I began making parts for some new Leafstorm6 folders. Machining titanium grips and blades. There will be knives with blades from S30V, M2 HSS and carbon Damascus. Some knives are for orders but I expect to have some for sale from stock - unless I really mess up a LOT. Hopefully that wont happen!

Here's a pic showing some parts together for a test fit and a close up rough cutting blades from bar stock prior to CNC contour machining.

BTW: Not much feed back in from buyers interested in Watermelon WilkinsGRIPs ... send me an email if you're interested, I need to hear from a few potential customers before forking out the money for the material .... that stuff is expensive.

Upcoming new color for WilkinsGRIP

2011-06-10T08:38:00.000+02:00

Does anybody think they'd like a set of grips for their large Griptilian made from Watermelon colored G11 glass fiber laminated plastic? I have a chance to buy some material in a color that's not quite red and it's not really pink either ... Watermelon for summer? Could be cool or is it a bad idea??

New Website

2011-06-06T08:00:00.000+02:00

The new website is coming along great, I expect to actually have it online by the 15th of June as planned. Right now it's 95% done, just few few more pages of copy to finish and a couiple of pics. Today I'll be back in the shop though ... Ihave to make knives once and a while too!

Mytuko Major New Pics

2011-06-01T19:00:00.000+02:00

Finally getting some decent new pics made of the Mytuko Major Beta Prototypes. These are mad from 5+mm thick Becut stainless machine flat ground and tumble polished. The protos are €199 (€167 non-EU).

I got me some New Postcards!

2011-06-01T12:30:00.001+02:00

I finally printed a fresh batch of postcards for the new Ryback Bushcrafter knives. I'll be including a few free with every order going out – including the ones that went this morning.

I Still have a few Pair of Grips in Stock!

2011-05-31T12:37:00.000+02:00

Here's the BMG X2 Grips drawer ... still working on the new website too!

Hidden Parameters in the Haas CNC Milling Machine

2011-05-25T21:41:00.001+02:00

I accidently found some paranormal parametrics in the Haas CNC mill... the Mother Ship has landed...Live and Direct from Kingston Town...Brixton bound...Skully turn up the bass!

Ryback Bushcrafter

2011-05-25T17:05:00.000+02:00

I like this pic! A Ryback Bushcrafter with black Micarta grips. These are all done in Niolox niobium alloyed stainless steel with a Hammer Polished finish. In stock too!

New Grips are up!

2011-05-25T10:00:00.001+02:00

I finially updated my main website this morning, the new WilkinsGRIP BMG X2 Grips are up with pics and prices.

Here's the BMGx2 Grips in Coarse Black G10

2011-05-24T19:18:00.000+02:00

These are snappy! Should have 'em all up on my main site tomorrow, just didn't get it all updated today.

Jürgen Steinau Museum Exhibition in Berlin

2011-05-24T09:15:00.000+02:00

Knifemaker Jürgen Steinau is one of four artists whose work is featured in the exhibition

Metal Arts & Crafts
Contemporary Works by Four Berlin Artists

The show runs from 27th May to 4th September, 2011
in the Museum For Arts & Crafts Köpenick Castle
in Berlin

If you're in or around Berlin during this time, it's a cool museum and should be an interesting show!

Here's a link (German language but with a pic) for more info.

Museum of Arts & Crafts Berlin Köpenick

Those Grips are DONE!

2011-05-23T16:58:00.001+02:00

Finished up a small batch of BMG X2 WilkinsGRIPs today. I have smooth orange G10 and both Medium & Coarse Textured Black G10 ready. I hope to have them up for sale tomorrow, as soon as I can get the pics done...maybe I'll get that done today.

Doing these grips is a lot more than simply CNC machining the parts. They also have to all be cut apart by hand, deburred, checked over, washed in the ultrasonic cleaner (see the pics!), dried, oiled the threaded inserts press into place, the screws individually shortened ... anyway. I I calculate exactly how many hours go into each pair ... well, better not to even go there!!

Still working...

2011-05-21T11:11:00.000+02:00

...on those new BMGx2 GRIPS! They will be going up on my main website next week sometime, if you're interested in getting a pair in orange or textured black, that's the place to look. I also have a few pair in Ranger Green and pale green in stock.

Rolling forward on those new grips...

2011-05-19T20:38:00.000+02:00

...since 5am this morning. Wearing those freaking hearing protectors all day really starts to get tiring!!

Working on some new WilkinsGRIP BMG X2 Gripsets Today

2011-05-18T18:41:00.001+02:00

Things are looking pretty ORANGE on the machine table today! Milling all those damn orange blocks down to spec and getting ready make 'em into grips. I have a vacs going but still end up with dust on the table...

Also found some black textured G10 so I'll be doing some BLACK grips too. Should have em done by end of the week!

Oh, just a note, that 100mm Jongen face mill has a list price of over $700 just for the mill without the SK40 holder or the inserts!

YES! I do still have large Ryback Kitchen Knives!

2011-05-18T09:14:00.000+02:00

Sorry for the confusion! I'm reworking my website and don't have a complete listing of all products online yet. My current site is only a temp until the new one's finished.

BUT I do indeed have Ryback Series 2 large Chef's Knives in stock for immediate delivery. These knives are the newest version, made from Becut stainless steel with a Hammer Polished smooth surface and grippy black Linen Micarta grips.

These knives are €199 each (€167 for non-EU sales)
Drop me a line if you's like one.

Ryback Bushcrafter Sheaths...

2011-05-15T10:04:00.004+02:00

...have arrived, I have several in stock now for immediate shipment. All are in dark brown leather just like the prototype shown in the pics below.

Mytuko Major First Prototypes

2011-05-09T16:58:00.001+02:00

Here's a pic of the new Mytuko Major, the rather big brother the Mytuko Mini.

These knives are made from 5mm thick Becut Stainless at HRC 58 and flat ground to a fine edge.
Blade length: 105mm Blade width: 40mm
Overall length: 225mm Ring Hole in the grip end: 20mm dia.

I have a few of these for sale, the price is €199 (€167 non-EU)

Welcome!

2011-05-01T19:18:00.004+02:00

I'm working like mad to get my main website redesigned and - hopefully - up and running very soon.
The new Ryback Bushcrafter is ready. I'll be in the shop tomorrow sharpening the first 20 or so knives.

Intro Price for the Bushcrafter alone: €139 (€117 non-EU)
Special Offer, Bushcrafter with handmade Leather Sheath and a Swedish Light My Fire FireSteel 2.0: €199 (€167 non-EU)

I also have the intial 15 prototypes of the Mytuko Major finished. As soon as I have a chance to shoot pics these will be up for sale. They are made from Becut stainless with a super smooth machine polished finish!