Hi Folks; Thanks. YUP, I'm tired of the market type digging knives. I want one that will tear through anything. I get a lot of tree roots because I dig in the woods a lot. I'm tired of playing games with them. I like terry's idea. I'll check that angle out ok. I'll let you guys know how I make out.
Hey Higgy; Want to fire up your old knife making gear ?? Let me know.
PEACE:RONB
I was thinking of a hori hori-style knife with a stainless 154CM or 440C stainless blade. It would have a linen micarta handle, and a saw-tooth edge on the side of the buyer's choosing. It would be a superb choice for a digging tool, but there is a little problem...
I'd have to charge an arm and a leg for it. Maybe some balls too.
The steel aint cheap and it takes a while to make it and heat treat it and get everything right. I'd have to charge $150 for them, and I don't think that would be right. The big killer here is that you'll only be shoving it into the dirt, and it will only get dull and scratched and start looking like every other digger you've ever bought.
I'm of the opinion that if you want a decent tool, then you need to look no further than any decent quality Japanese hori-hori. The blade steel is Japanese, and for carbon steel, it is spectacular. Strong, reliable and cheap. Win.
Of course, I like my Lesche, but its now become commonplace. If you want a Lesche on steroids, I would like to suggest an Ironclad Viking, made by our own TNet member, Goldmoon.
In the end, there is no secret digger out there. its a matter of knowing the limitations of what you have in your hand. I always hunt with my Sampson on my left hand, and my Lesche on my belt. Best of both worlds. Keep your blade sharp, and roots give it up.
I apologize if this sounds like I am trying to talk you out of your dream for a custom digger, Barker, but the reality is that what you are looking for really isn't practical, but the Ironclad Viking comes as close as you can get to what you describe.
I hope this helps.
