WILKINSON SWORD DARTMOOR KNIFE
The original Wilkinson Sword Dartmoor Survival Knife - MK1
(Model CSK185)
The WS Dartmoor knife's design appealed to me from the outset as it had customization potential and with a bit of work could be turned into a very nice looking and useful heavy duty field knife. Having actually bought myself an original CSK185, it's fair to say that apart from the ineffective cutting edge, there was nothing bad to say about the knife. It's a hefty piece of kit with a 185mm long 6mm thick blade - so it should last a generation or two!
A further improvement has been realised - the MK2 version with a proper full flat Scandi grind...
I have managed to secure a good number of bog standard CSK unground blade blanks. This has provided me with an opportunity to apply my own grind types from scratch. After some trial and error, I managed to work out an optimal grind configuration that surpassed all my previous CSK grind configurations. I am, therefore, pleased to offer my own
Custom version of the CSK 185, with two main cutting edge grind options. Either a full flat deep Scandi grind or, with an added Secondary bevel type grind option.
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This is an example of the MK2 Dartmoor knife blade blank with a 100% single flat Scandi type grind. The depth and angle of the grind is such that it cuts clean and deep with less effort.
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As can be seen in this close up, the grind is nice and flat all the way. It takes six grades of sanding belt and three mop changes to get it to look like this.
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When looking at the above photos of the MK2 Custom Dartmoor knife blank, please remember that the serrations on the back of the blade blank and the the threaded stud at the back of the handle will both be ground off. The handle will also be contoured to provide for harmonious comfortable shape as for the MK1 versions, including the thumb rest. As I'm dealing with old new stock, I do my best to smooth and polish the blades as best I can. However, when ordering a Dartmoor knife one has to accept that some very minor blemishes/imperfections might still be present. I'm being fussy really, but it's best that one is aware that blade wise at least, it'll be neat and wholly fit for purpose!
I suppose one question that could matter to some folk, is whether the cost of one of my custom Dartmoor knives is good value, when compared to an original shop soiled version, minus the survival kit, which can be bought for around £250. Well, I honestly believe that I offer excellent value for money for a damn good knife that's unique and personal in its makeup. I appreciate that personal perceptions and preferences vary, but considering the work involved and cost of materials etc., I can be justifiably proud to be able to turn an average working knife into a a damn good one, and as unique and individual as it's new owner. So far, every one I made has been very well received...
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Ian Hammond MK2 Dartmoor in Masur Birch
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My own MK" Dartmoor in Cocobolo and Horn flat back
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Click this for : PRICING AND KNIFE BUILD OPTIONS
Below is the last of the MK1 versions in Zebrano
