This knife was created as part of a personal effort to build a portfolio of work that represented the range of designs, materials, and craftsmanship I was becoming capable of producing. Rather than being built for a specific customer, the goal was to create a piece that demonstrated both technical skill and aesthetic refinement while serving as an example of the type of custom work I could offer.

The design featured a hunting-style blade complete with my first gut hook, along with a segmented handle constructed from ebony, G-10, and stabilized mammoth ivory. Combining these materials created a striking contrast between natural and modern elements while giving the knife a more premium appearance. Throughout the build, I continued refining techniques that would become staples of my work, including careful hand finishing, improved handle construction, and attention to visual detail.

One feature I was particularly pleased with was the use of vulcanized paper liners, a technique I learned from fellow maker Austin M. The subtle color contrast helped define the transitions between materials and added another layer of visual interest to the finished knife. The project also provided an opportunity to continue improving my leatherwork through the creation of a custom stamped and dyed sheath designed to complement the knife.

Looking back, this knife represents an important stage in my development as a maker. It combined new materials, new techniques, and a growing attention to detail, resulting in a piece that helped establish the standard I wanted future portfolio knives to meet.