Introducing the Live Oak Trade Knife #361, the latest masterpiece in our Historical Knives Collection at aqua-spoonbill-190378.hostingersite.com. This stunning piece re-imagines the 18th-century Small French Trade Knife, blending historical charm with modern durability. Rather than replicate the original exactly, Greg captures its essence while using advanced materials for better performance. The 1095 high carbon steel blade holds an edge far longer than its historical predecessors ever could.
This half-tang knife weighs just 3.4 ounces, making it light and comfortable to carry all day. The handle, shaped from stabilized Florida Live Oak with mild steel pins, may look archaic by today’s standards but fits snugly in the hand, offering a timeless grip. This piece is part of our Florida Woods Series, which celebrates the native timbers Greg hand-harvests here in Florida. The full flat/convex grind with no secondary bevel delivers a “sticky sharp” cutting edge, true to the precision of old-world knives. Please use caution—don’t test the sharpness on anything you’d rather keep attached!
If you choose the With Sheath option, you’ll receive a handcrafted sheath made from veg-tanned leather, dyed with vinegaroon brewed right in Greg’s workshop for a rich, historic finish. We share more about this traditional method in our Historic Leather Dyes post. Instead of modern polyester thread, each sheath is stitched with strong linen thread, staying true to traditional methods. We treat the leather with hot beeswax for added waterproofing. Historically, oak-tanned leather was common, but we use veg-tanned leather to keep it affordable without sacrificing quality—making it the perfect companion for the Live Oak Trade Knife #361.
Why is the Live Oak Trade Knife #361 for You?
This knife is perfect for historical reenactments or as a versatile kitchen tool—and it’s built to handle daily use for years to come. Its sturdy construction and elegant design add heritage and utility to any collection. If you buy it for reenactments, don’t be surprised if it finds a permanent place in your kitchen—your spouse might adopt it for dinner prep! With an overall length of 10 inches, a 5½-inch blade, and a 1-inch width, this knife balances practicality with historical appeal.
Specifications:
- Overall Length: 10 inches
- Knife Weight: 3.4 oz
- Blade Length: 5 1/2 inches
- Blade Width: 1 inch
- Blade Thickness: 3/32 inch
- Blade Material: 1095 High Carbon Steel
- Blade Finish: Antiqued
- Blade Style: Drop Point – Half Tang
- Handle Material: Stabilized Live Oak with Mild Steel Pins
- Optional Sheath: Handcrafted leather sheath with historical Vinegaroon dye made by Greg
