I've just started the process of adding yet another knife to my collection...I decided recently that I have enough gear and didn't want to spend money on stuff but somehow this time is a little different.

I've wanted a classic Grohmann knife for a long time as, to me, there isn't a bush tool that is more distinctly Canadian than the classic Grohmann #1 belt knife the same as it was in 1958. I've also wanted a nice scandinavian knife...something a little more distinct than an $8 Frosts Mora. Since I'm not in the market for 2 blades and I've capped my spending as mentioned, I had a goofy idea...

Knowing Grohmann has a long tradition of custom knives I sent an innocent email yesterday morning to their customer service address asking a few questions about having a standard knife customized to my liking. Basically I was looking for the original #1 belt knife in Carbon steel (a less common option in these days of high tech stainless) with a scandinavian grind and in a left handed sheath to suit my southern paw.

I heard back right away (like within a half hour!) and over the course of a few emails including some pictures of examples of what a scandinavian grind looks like to me...it's already being made and should be done in a week or two. I wasn't 100% confident they would entertain my request but once I heard that they would be more than happy to oblige, I HAD to go through with it. It's only going to cost me an extra $25 over the retail price as to them this is far from custom...just a change to the way the blade is hand ground...a simple request for such pros.

It's nice to know that there are companies like this still out there who take pride in their work and will entertain requests like this at the drop of a hat and with minimal extra cost or hassle.

Once it gets here I'll post pictures including some action shots.

Up until very recently, These knives were still current Canadian Military issued field knives. I have about five of the things kicking around in my basement, some of them never used. I like them, but the sheaths rot away fast in a wet environment. The tips are weak, and the wooden handles just didn't hold up the kind of jobs I needed a field knife to do.

Nothing cuts without snagging like a Grohman belt knife though. Cold steel has a plastic handled version that sells fairly cheap.

It's true that they aren't known for their durability under hard use...but for hard use I have other knives I can use in it's place. I was just feeling nostalgic and wanted a superior cutting tool that I can give to my kids if taken care of properly. It won't be any less durable than a carbon steel Mora I'm sure.

I've looked at the Cold Steel version many times...but buying a knife named a 'Canadian knife' from a US company never sat right with me. I'm sure it's a sturdy knife though as most Cold steel knives are.

I have a #3 and two lockblade folders. I really like the knives and would be devistated if I broke the tips. For hard use I've been using Mora's. I look forward to seeing your pictures.

sofar this week i have bought, 2x moras, 1x harsey hunter, 1x SOG field pup. oh and a gransfors bruks axe and you need an intervention

Hacksaw,
Please post some pictures after you recive the knife. I love their blades, have a #1, #3 and two #4's (one stainless, one carbon). Tarus is absolutly correct about the weak points. I have been thinking of sending them a billet of D2 steel to make a #4 with micarta handle scales and kydex sheath, so I am very interested in how you request turns out.

P.S. They do make some kydex sheaths for the various models if you need something more durable.

Joe

I don't think they do Kydex but I didn't ask. I was looking for something traditional.

The sheaths as they come from the factory are just tanned leather so far as I know and fairly soft. I'll be giving mine the old wax dip treatment so that it will last as close to forever as possible.

'I decided recently that I have enough gear and didn't want to spend money on stuff'

If you have nothing sensible to say - say nothing. This is your only warning. blasphemy like this will not be tolerated in future!
The Sock

Hacksaw,

Looks like you are right, see this link:
http://www.knivesdirect.com/details.php?Model=1k

Kydex no longer avalible.

http://www.northcoastknives.com/northcoast_knives_tutorials.htm

several sheath making tutorials there for leather, Kydex and wood

also on making your own knives is covered and steel types

Interesting. I've never seen that sheath before. The knife in the picture isn't the #1 however. Nice selection though. I like how they call the #1 the 'design award model'

They called me today. The order is going to cost me $100 CDN even plus shipping. No ETA yet.

Update!

I just phoned to give them my payment information and they told me the knife is already done!

I guess the production manager took it on as a personal challenge.

It's shipping tomorrow. They never cease to raise the bar on me at every turn.

Wow. This company rocks - a customized "stock" knife at $100?? Amazing price for the work. Definetely post some pics!