Bushcraft Style Knives

The original DL1 in RWL-34 steel proved quite popular since its introduction. It's a well tried and tested model and continued to be my leading knife blade of choice for folk who wanted a low maintenance super steel knife that is though, takes and holds a very keen edge and totally reliable in any wilderness environment.

The DL1 evolved from the Mk 1 version through to a Mk 3 version, with the last of the Mk 3's (Serial #10) being completed in July 2010.

At time of writing - July 2010 - I have decided to discontinue the DL1 in RWL-34 for the time being. Owing to the special sentimental attachment I have to this knife model I hope to be able to resume making it at some time in the future.

Please note that the DL1 Mk 3 is till available in 52100 Bearing Steel

The original concept behind the DL1 Mk3 in Bearing steel was to satisfy the needs of the more traditional Bushcrafter who prefers a tough High Carbon bladed knife that is a superb alternative to the common 01 tool steel.

THE DL1 - MK3

(RWL-34 Steel Version)

In comparison to the Mk1 and Mk2 versions on the left, the Mk3 version is more substantial in the blade section. Also worth noting is that the Mk1 and Mk 2 blades where 3.2mm thick, but the Mk3 version is 4.2mm thick.

The DL1 Mk3 dimensions are as follows:

Overall length - 225mm

Blade length - 110mm

Handle length - 115mm

Blade thickness - 4.2mm

Widest part (at Ricasso) - 32mm

Widest part (at start of cutting edge) - 31mm

Widest part (at pommel end) - 33mm

Type of Grind - Scandi

Depth of grind - 8-9mm

Pin holes - 3

Lanyard Hole - 1

Above is my own #01 DL1 Mk 3 in undyed Buck Eye burl over red fibre liners.

THE FIRST DL1 IN RWL-34

DLI MK1 - PROTOTYPE

This was the very first DL1 prototype blade and as I meant to to keep it for myself I had a go at making its handle from Corian. It turned out a very attractive knife, perhaps too pretty for a Bushcraft style knife!

Eventually this knife found a good home with a good man who appreciated it greatly...

THE LAST DL1 IN RWL-34

DL1 Mk3 #10

This DL1 Mk3 is the last one of it's type. It's made up of an Elm Burl handle over black and green fibre liners secured by three Mosaic pins and a Lanyard tube.

This knife has sentimental value to me not just because it's the last one of its kind, but also because it's going to Ben, a serving brother in arms.

DL1 MK 3 - #02

First DL1 Mk3 in RWL-34 made up from Black Buffalo Horn and Red Deer Antler over Red fibre liners.

DL1 Mk3 - 06

#06 DL1 Mk3 in White Red Deer Antler complete with a set comprising of Tungsten Steel, Ceramic Rod and Firesteel in matching handles and bespoke pouch.

DL1 Mk 3 in Argentinean Ebony

This knife is meant as a present to a real Argentinean gentleman. Therefore it was considered very appropriate to make the handle from Argentinean Ebony. As can be seen from the feedback, it was well received...

Hello Paul,

The knife has arrived this morning and is a very difficult thing to put down as I am sure you will appreciate. It is fantastic, beautifully made with great care and attention to detail and a real work of art. I just know that my friend will love it and although I think it will be hard to part with in September, just as I am sure you feel an attachment to everything you make, the thought of the pleasure it will bring over the coming years is the important factor. I am sure he will pass it on to his son so that the whole thing will live on.

Very many thanks for all your efforts I am very grateful and perhaps need to start thinking about one for me now!!

Kind regards
Ian.

DL1 MK3 - #07

It's very hard not to like Black Buffalo horn as it makes for such a classy looking knife.

DL1 MK3 - #09

This is the last of the DL1 Mk3 that is destined for Mark in Australia. The handle is from Gidgee wood of Australian origin, as suggested to me by Mark himself. Two Sheaths, one in Brown and one in Black.

My DL1 Mk1 - # 01

This my very own RWL-34 steel DL1, serial number 01 of 10 blades I commissioned Jasper B. Nielson of Denmark to make for me.

Handle is Thuya Burl over red liners. Sheath is of the standard fixed loop type made from 3.5mm veg tanned leather, suitably worked and embossed. Finish is in semi-matt oil/wax..

My DL1 Mk2 - # 01

This knife is the first one (Serial number 01) of a batch of ten DL1 Mk2 blades, made from RWL-34 steel, by Brian Sorenson. The main differences between this and the the MkI are the blade thickness, which is now 3mm instead of 4mm, and the depth of grind.

The handle material is composed of Stabilised Elder Burl, reconstituted Turquoise over white fibre liners. Three Mosaic pins and a Brassed lined Lanyard hole complete the handle.

JBN - RWL-34 DL1 Knife - # 07

DL1 - knife # 07 of 10 JBN blades that was reserved for Karl made up last. This one belongs to Karl, Big Kev's mate. Kev actually has the #02 which he made up for himself.

The handle is made up from White G10 over Black liners. Mosaic pins where used in this instance.

The Sheath is the usual 3.5mm thick Veg Tanned leather and as can be seen is heavily figured. The Sheath's colour is actually very dark Maroon with black highlights here and there.

I'm happy with the result as it turned out a really a nice and obviously, very practical knife.

JBN - RWL-34 DL1 Knife - # 04

DL1 - knife # 04 of 10 JBN blades. I made this one for Gordon up in Scotland.

Handle is of Black Buffalo Horn and Red deer Antler. The 'Firesteel Papoose' is of matching material.

The Sheath is a British/Scandinavian style hybrid with extension loop made from 3.5mm veg tan shoulder leather in Black.

This is what Gordon had to say about his # 04 DL1...

Hello Paul

Just signed for the DL1 knife and tore the very secure, packaging off. Wow...just wow, it's perfect.

Thanks again for all your hard work. I will contact you later in the year to sort out a Shadow for me if that's ok.

regards

Gordon

JBN - RWL-34 DL1 Knife - # 03

DL1 - knife # 03 of 10 JBN blades. This one I made for Graham down in Clitheroe.

Handle is in Danish Walnut over Black liners.

The Sheath is a friction fit standard fixed loop type made form 3.5mm Veg Tan shoulder leather. As can be seen, the Sheath is well worked with embossing and has a high lustre finish.

This is what Graham had to say about his # 03 DL1...

Hi Paul

Got the DL1 this morning.

Having already a bearing steel guardian I knew the level of quality to expect. This knife is truly awesome - it does you proud.

Many thanks

Graham

JBN - RWL-34 DL1 Knife - # 06

DL1 - knife # 06 of 10 JBN blades. This one I made for Bill who had this to say when he got the knife:

Hello Paul Well the next door neighbour who kindly took in the package for me has just handed it over & after opening it all I can say is You did not exaggerate the colour & finish on the handle is absolutely beautiful & I see you remembered about my large hands, cos while not overly large the handle is wonderfully hand filling I could NOT lose my grip on this!!! As for the sheath WOW !!! I have actually given up (for the time being) trying to work out how many styles of stamping there are all in all I would definitely give this one the GOLD MEDAL Yours as ever Bill Birch.

I don't think I need say any more...

JBN - RWL34 DL1 Knives - # 8, 9and 10

DL1 - knife # 08, 09 and 10 of 10 JBN blades. These are destined for the USA for Andrew and his two sons.

From the left, Afzelia, Amboyna and Thuya. 9mm Firesteels with matching handles of course. Main finish is CCL English Knife oil with a light waxed finish.

The sheaths are from 3.5mm thick Shoulder Veg tanned leather in Maroon, Mahogany and Brown. Final finish is a bit darker than normal because all three are heavily oiled and waxed.

JBN'S RWL-34 DL1 MKI KNIFE BLADES

As of end April 2009 all of the 10 JBN DL1 (MkI) Blades have found a home.

Apart from being a damn good knife, the DL1 has important sentimental reasons for my attachment to it. The DL stands for Dave Lisle, and the '1' stands for my #1 friend of all time. The knife, as well as this site, is dedicated to his memory.

There will come a time that the making of the DL1 will come to an end, but the knives themselves will go on for many years to come; hopefully another generation or two at least!

As a direct result of the success of the DL1 MK I by JBN, I decided to continue with the model with some minor alterations. So, I now have a MK II version, made for me by Brian Sorenson, who also does my Leukus, Talisman and Guardian in Bearing steel. Brian is basically a hobbyist as myself, so his interest tends to be more involved at a personal level. He's an exceptional fine smithy and also a good friend.

The new batch of DL1's MKII are slightly different to the MKI in four key areas, and these are:

a. The maker is going to be Brian Sorenson from Denmark (who also does the 52100 Bearing steel Talisman, Guardian and Leuku's for me).

b. The thickness of the blade is going to be 3mm. Although only 1mm less than the MKI, the feel is now more 'to hand' and easier to wield as it's less broad sideways.

c. The grind is going to be appx. 7-8mm deep. The idea is to give more substance to the cutting edge and yet make the knife more usable in food preparation tasks as well as other tasks one expects from a Bushcraft type knife.

d. The distance between the cutting edge and the start of the handle is being reduced to 10mm to facilitate better handling for fine close work as preferred by experienced Bushcrafters.

JBN - RWL-34 DL1 Knife - # 05

DL1 - knife # 05 of 10 JBN blades. Rather than have the Firesteel on a loop as part of the Sheath, Rae asked for a Papoose in matching Thuya. I made this set I for Rae Younger who had this to say when he got the knife:

Hi Paul

My DL1 knife arrived today, and it looks stunning - what a perfect 30th birthday present from my wife. The workmanship on the handle is fantastic and it fits like a glove in my hand. The sheath is beautifully executed too. It looks bombproof, with just enough detail on the leatherwork to keep it plain and understated - absolutely perfect.

Thanks again

The David Lisle Field Knife (DL1- Mk1)

I've decided to have 10 Bushcraft/Field type blades made from the rather special RWL-34 Swedish Powder Stainless Steel. The Blades are being made for me by a top Danish bladesmith/knife maker, who normally only makes blades for his own exclusive knife making activities. I'm referring to Jesper B Neilson or JBN as he's most commonly known. JBN makes knives for the Danish Crown Court and other highly esteemed clients.

I'm calling this knife 'The Davey Lisle Field Knife' or DL1 for short, in honour of my late best friend. The owner of one of these knives will be able to appreciate and feel privileged that he has something very special that he can feel fully confident about and able to trust and rely on as he would his best friend - just like I could with my late best friend Davey Lisle.

The knife above is the prototype and the final shape will not be too dissimilar.

The knife specifications are as follows:

Blade is full tang made from Scandinavian RWL-34 Powdered Stainless steel.

Overall length of knife will be approximately 220mm, with a blade length of 110mm and a handle length of 110mm. The thickness of the blade is 3.5mm and 35mm at its widest point. The actual cutting edge is 100mm and 30mm at its widest point. the grind, a flat sided Scandi grind, is 10mm deep. (NB: These sizes are close, but approximate nevertheless!) The handle will have 3 pins as well as a lanyard hole slightly offset from the pinholes.

The batch of 10 blades ordered have now been received (as at 27.02/08). And here they are...

I've waited very very patiently for many months to get hold of these beauties.

Many a time I thought that the project was going to fall through, but patience and I persevered paid off in the end. I regarded this project especially important on account of the sentimental value attached to them - and now I'm very happy indeed!!!

As can be seen with my having re-numbered the serial numbers with a pen, "MINE 01" is exactly that - the first one is mine. All the blades have the serial numbers 01 to 10 and my initials (PF) stamped on them nice and small on the left side.

SOME TECHNICAL ASPECTS ABOUT RWL-34 KNIFE MAKING STEEL

The Knife Blade steel:

RWL-34 is made in Sweden from powder steel, the composition of which is very precise and strictly controlled, thus making for absolute consistency. It features a very fine grain structure and with the appropriate heat treatment will make for an excellent quality knife with a super sharp cutting edge that will hold its fine cutting ability for considerably far longer than other knife steels.

RWL-34 has a fine grain structure that increases its cutting edge and holding capability. It is also worth noting that RWL-34 is a Stainless high alloy steel as well as having the superior qualities already referred to.

Although it can hold an excellent cutting edge, it does not make sharpening harder. Quite the contrary actually, as when it comes to sharpening the blade it’s fairly easy to do, which is of great value to the user at home as well when out and about. Takes and holds a good edge, while easy to sharpen when necessary – perfect for the user!

How the steel is made: RWL-34 steel is a ‘powder steel’ that has been melted and sprayed out in a vacuum. The resulting steel bar is put through a complicated process under very high heat and pressure. The precise steel composition, in combination with the whole process of producing Powder steels, makes for an inherently stronger knife blade than any other steel.

The Heat treating process: RWL-34 blades get a professional heat treatment in strictly controlled environments by Haustrup of Denmark. This company deals exclusively with heat treating steels for a variety of industrial tools and of course knives.

The method used is a specialised Quench and Draw one, the process of which is a well guarded trade secret.

The blades get hardened in a vacuum furnace at very high temperatures and are then cryogenically stress relieved at -196 °C (-385 °F).

The stress relief gives 3 benefits:

1. The wear resistance is greatly increased.

2. The knife is able to get a finer cutting edge that holds well.

3. The overall strength is greatly increased.

The final hardness of the blade is 58-59Rc, which is ideal for this type of knife.

Cost: When one considers the processes involved, it stands to reason that the costs involved would be far more than they would be for 0-1 tool steel for instance. In the case of RWL-34 however, the added cost is well justified on account that a well designed knife produced from this super steel will arguably be the best knife you could possibly ever have.

The knife blade making process: Using RWL-34 bar stock, each blade is made to as near the final design shape as possible. The blades are then sent for heat treatment to a specialised industrial heat treatment company in Denmark. There the blades undergo the heat treatment process. On their return, the blades are then given the final grind and polish in order to achieve the perfect design shape and surface finish.

It's worth noting that as good as RWL-34 steel is for use in knife making, it's only as good as the process it has to go through to get the best out of it. Therefore it's very important to seek assurances that the finished blade has gone through the FULL heat treatment process by an industry leading specialist - as is the case for all my RWL-34 blades.

NB: As these knives are individually hand made, all sizes are approximate and some minor variations from blade to blade and knife to knife are to be expected...

Want to know more about RWL-34 Steel?

Than check this out: http://faq.customtacticals.com/datasheets/rwl34.pdf

Also... Handles made from natural materials may have some very minor faults which add to the character of the finished piece. If you want as near to a blemish free perfect finished handle, please do not order a handle made from natural material. With Burl wood especially, minor voids and other irregularities are inherent.

DL1 MKII - RWL-34 Steel

At last, after a long wait, the first Batch of MKII DL1's have arrived. As can be seen for the above photo, the MKII is slimmer in profile and is also slimmer on width. The details are as follows:

Overall length: 215mm

Blade Length 105mm

Handle length 110mm

Blade thickness: 3mm

Blade width: 30mm at finger stop. 28mm at back end of blade.

Depth of grind: 7mm

The DL1 Mk2 blades are now made by Brian Sorenson of Denmark, who also does the Talisman and Guardian in Bearing steel for me.

The main reason for the changes is because I've been asked for a slimmer knife overall and yet still strong enough to be able to do the normal Bushcraft type jobs. I hope that the MKII fits the description perfectly. Although I'm a fan of 4mm thick steel for Bushcraft type knives, I'm quite happy to experiment and see how things wok out...

MK 3 version on the way soon!

DL1 MKII

Black buffalo and Red Deer Antler combination red fibre liners with matching Firesteel. Sheath has optional adjustable 'Dangler' loop.

DL1 MKII

Afzelia over red fibre liners with matching Firesteel. Sheath has optional adjustable 'Dangler' loop.