It’s downright spooky how many great knives are coming out this October!
Traditional Pocket Knives Ohio River Jack
The well loved Ohio River Jack is back! It returns 10/10/24 with some nice upgrades: s90v steel, hollow grind, improved long pull, and others. See my video below for an overview review and comparison to the original run!
The Stinking Creek Sowbelly is a new model for RoseCraft Blades. These will be available Monday October 14th, both at dealers and direct at RoseCraft Blades. Andy Armstrong has taken the classic Sowbelly pattern and put his own twist on it. It has a single clip point blade and comes in both (beautiful) stag and black sandalwood. $80 for Stag, $62 for Wood.
Jack Wolf Knives’ release this month is a new model, the Bionic Jack. The Bionic Jack is the modernized version of the Cyborg Jack. It is scaled up, has a pocket clip, a bolster lock (or, on one version, frame lock), and one hand opening with a front flipper or the long pull. There’s several great versions releasing to all dealers, but the real hot ticket in my opinion is the KnifeCenter Exclusive in crystallized blurple anodized titanium. It’s intended to showcase titanium as a material, with several different finishes on the various titanium aspects of the knife. The Bionic Jack drops Friday the 18th, both at dealers and direct at Jack Wolf Knives. The regular versions are $350, and the exclusive is just a bit more at $360.
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I love Barlows. A Barlow is what ignited my interest in traditional pocket knives, and the main focus of my collecting to this day. I’m not alone; many knife enthusiasts consider the Barlow to be among the best patterns, and even non enthusiasts often know the name. But what actually is a Barlow? What makes a knife a Barlow… or not a Barlow?
One of the Best Recent Barlows, the GEC 2AB, and a Barlow Bearcat Club Slip by Lynch Leather
I Like Big Bolsters and I Cannot Lie
The defining characteristic of the Barlow pattern is an elongated bolster. More specifically, the rule is typically given as the pivot end bolster being 1/3 the total handle length. A Barlow has no end cap, or butt end bolster. The Great Eastern Cutlery Barlows (so far….) have all held true to this rule, with the following bolster to handle length percentages: #14 36%, #15 36%, #25 33%, #77 36%, #86 35%. There is also the so-called Grandaddy Barlow, which is a larger and, particularly, longer version of the Barlow. While Grandaddy Barlows have extended bolsters as compared to other similarly sized knives, their sheer size would make a full 1/3 length bolster less aesthetically appealing. That said, the large Barlows GEC has made still stick close to the 1/3 rule, with the Northwoods Madison being 31% and the Remington “The Cowboy” at 29%. Case Barlow bolsters are also around 35%. Where does the percentage cutoff lie? How short is too short? It’s tough to say, but usually easy to see. For example, the currently being released GEC #78 Bullet End Barlow doesn’t indisputably make the cut to my eye, and it is around 26%. So the most distinctive feature of a Barlow is the extended Bolster.
TL;DR? A Succinct Infographic
Big Bolster = Big Durability & Big Aesthetics
So, why the extended bolster? The answer usually given is that it results in a stronger and more durable knife. The bolster is what the pivot pin is peened or riveted into, and maybe the extra metal allows for a more secure hold by the “mushrooming” from being hammered. Alternatively, the additional metal might allow for a more rigid handle and in turn less likelihood of the knife pulling apart. By moving the cover material, usually a much less durable material than the metal bolster, away from the pivot there is less flex and therefore wear at the transition between the bolsters and cover material or on the covers themselves. A more durable knife was an important feature when the Barlow was mostly seen as an affordable working tool. The extended bolster certainly also adds an undeniably unique aesthetic. I think this visual appeal is as much a reason for the extended bolster as the durability, at least among collectors. The extended bolster calls back to the golden era of traditional pocket knives, they’re place in history, and a time when they were ubiquitous as every day tools. No matter the original intent of the extended bolster, it is the defining characteristic of the Barlow and a recognizable hallmark among pocket knife patterns.
Most of GEC’s Barlow Patterns
Variety is the Spice of Life… and Barlows?
While the extended bolster is a necessity, almost everything else about the Barlow can vary. Barlows have come in basically every blade shape (Clip Point, Spear Point, Sheepfoot, Wharncliffe, Drop Point, Spey, Razor, etc. etc.), though I don’t think I’ve ever seen a Hawkbill Barlow. Additionally, they can have a main blade and secondary, usually a pen blade, or even two full size blades. Any blades must all come from the same pivot end. Barlows can also come in several handle shapes. The most common shape is the regular jack, but a Barlow can also be a swell end jack, sleeve board jack, or even a curved jack. Sometimes you’ll see English made knives with extended bolsters on swayback handle shapes called Barlows, but that type doesn’t seem to have made it “across the pond”. The fact that most Barlows are in the shape of a Regular Jack has, in my experience, contributed to people misidentifying normal Jack knives as Barlows.
A Handmade Barlow by Sean Yaw
Barlows in Spirit… or in Name Only
With the rise in popularity of traditional pocket knives and slipjoints, and particularly Barlows, there has been a growth in the phenomenon of knives being misidentified as Barlows. I am fine with knives that have extended faux bolsters, often a different color of the same material or a different material than the rest of the handle (Micarta vs G10, etc.), being called Barlows. Are they purely traditional? No, but on that note I am also fine with knives using modern construction being called Barlows as long as they have a true extended bolster, like the Jack Wolf Knives Midnight Jack (and even the fully modern After Hours Jack!). I’m even okay with knives that just have aesthetic milling to give the appearance of an extended bolster being deemed Barlows, such as the LionSteel Slim Dom and Traditional Pocket KnivesLake Champlain Barlow. However, knives with a normal size bolster or no bolster at all just don’t pass the test for me. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon to see a knife that is vaguely shaped like a Regular Jack to be called a Barlow, especially when modern knife companies take cues from traditional patterns. I understand that definitions change, and that that is an integral part of the evolution of language, but I think it worth holding onto the distinction of a Barlow at the least having the appearance of an extended bolster.
Two Barlows in Spirit
A Barlow in Every Pocket
Now that you know what a Barlow is, I hope you decide to try one. A Great Eastern Cutlery TC Barlow brought me into the world of traditional knives, but the enthusiasm and wealth of knowledge shared by people (such as great patrons of the Barlow like Charlie Campagna, who is always sharing traditional knife wisdom such as on the Catch Bit Podcast) about this classic pattern is one of the main things that has kept me so engaged. If you find yourself hooked by the allure of this classic pattern, make sure you check out and apply to the Barlow Bearcat Club.
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I sincerely thank you for your time, support, and interest! Don’t forget to tell your friends about KnifeThoughts.com, subscribe via email, and share this article on social media. You can find Knife Thoughts on YouTube where I have hundreds of knife videos, as well as on Instagram and Facebook! You can find all my latest links at LinkTr.ee/KnifeThoughts
So you’re falling down the slippery slope of traditional pocket knives, and you’ve been intrigued by the “GEC Rendezvous“. The Rendezvous is Great Eastern Cutlery‘s yearly gathering to celebrate classic knives and the people who can’t get enough of them. This article will answer your burning questions about the Rendezvous!
Why go to the Rendezvous?
There are lots of reasons to go to the Rendezvous, some of which I have written about in the past (2021, 2019). Of course, there are the special and limited edition knives that can only be purchased at the Rendezvous. There are also some vendors such as Lynch Leather, some vintage knife resellers, and of course yours truly… Knife Thoughts. That said, most people consider the opportunity for camaraderie with fellow traditional knife enthusiasts to be the main draw. There’s just something special about being at the factory that makes these incredible knives we love, and getting to spend time with other people who share our passion. Another big value of going to the Rendezvous is the opportunity to meet and talk with Bill, William, Joan Mae, Randy, and all of the great people at Great Eastern Cutlery who actually make the knives.
The 1st in person Barlow Bearcat Club meeting, on the front porch of GECBen, and several others, can’t make it this year due to Blade Show being the same weekend
Can you tour the factory?
Yes… and no. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, GEC has offered “self guided tours” through the factory. What this amounts to is the ability to walk around the factory hallway, with views into many (but not all) of the processes. It doesn’t include a guide with explanations of the process, as it did previously. To be honest, these self guided tours pale in comparison to the (often lengthy) tours that were given in the past. Still, even a self guided tour provides ample opportunity to see behind the scenes and get a good look at the knives being made.
The factory floor
How does buying knives at the Rendezvous work?
Special knives are part of the draw of the Rendezvous, so it’s helpful to know how they are actually sold. Attendees will get a ticket from GEC staff once the store opens. For those who lined up ahead of time there is often a previous informal number system (this year a Barlow Bearcat Club member made numbered brass tags), which can be exchanged for an official ticket. In past years, only five people have been allowed in the store at a time. You are allowed to enter once someone leaves and a staff member calls your ticket number. You can get another ticket once you have gone through the store, which will allow you to go in again after everyone who currently had a ticket has gone through. Once in the store, there isn’t technically a time limit, but you shouldn’t dillydally. In past years, you have only been able to purchase two knives for each trip through the store. That includes Rendezvous Special knives, SFA knives, or otherwise. That said, as mentioned below, you can only purchase one of the Rendezvous Special knives period (no matter the number of times you go through the store). It can take a while to get back around to your number for a second trip, so make sure you get a second ticket as you leave the store if you’d like a second trip and then spend some time perusing the exhibitors’ tables and meeting other enthusiasts.
The long wait (longer every year!) comes to an end
What is the Rendezvous Special knife?
The Rendezvous Special is a knife made to commemorate the Rendezvous each year. It’s made in limited quantities, not disclosed until the event begins, usually around 50 pieces. Those 50 pieces are spread across both days, with about 30 available Friday and 20 Saturday. Each attendee can only purchase one Rendezvous Special, and GEC keeps a list of who buys what knife. They are usually special in some way, like using stag or a unique shield. I have personally made a collection of these knives over the last 10 years of attending the Rendezvous, as I think they are a great representation of the special event each year.
10 years of Rendezvous Special knives
What is a Special Factory Assembly?
Special Factory Assembly knives, or SFAs, are knives put together in unique configurations for the Rendezvous. These were formerly called parts knives, because they often use leftover parts from previous runs (sometimes several years past). They can have different cover materials, blade configurations, shields, etc. and are often made in low numbers. In fact, these SFAs are considered by some to be the real gems of the Rendezvous due to their limited and unique nature. Many SFAs in recent years have been S knives, which are essentially cosmetic seconds and don’t carry the warranty. One should keep a sharp eye out when entering the store during the Rendezvous, as especially attractive SFAs can sometimes hide in plain sight.
An SFA #25 with two other patriotic GECs
How early do I have to get there to buy a Rendezvous Special knife?
Honestly, it’s impossible to know. I thought last year couldn’t be beaten, when I got there at 10:15 Thursday morning and was already the 27th place in line. But alas, I was foolish to think that people wouldn’t take it further. This year, 2024, two long time fans (and friends of mine, no negativity thrown their way here!) parked a camper outside the factory on the SUNDAY before, a full 5 days before the event. Not only that, but I’m told as of today (Wednesday, two full days before) there are over 15 people waiting. That said, last year people who got there relatively late (meaning in the early morning on Friday, say 5am or so) were able to get a Rendezvous Special because some people passed on them. It’s just not something that can be calculated in advance, but the baseline seems to have passed my reckoning. My understanding is that getting a knife is often easier on Saturday, despite the lower number available. Either way, good luck to anyone who goes for a Rendezvous Special!
The man himself, Bill, showing off a past Rendezvous Special
Should I say hello to the guy wearing a Knife Thoughts shirt?
Yes! I can likely be found sitting at a table exhibiting for Knife Thoughts and / or the Barlow Bearcat Club, talking with other enthusiasts and perusing their tables, or oogling all the great knives in the store. Please stop and say hello, introduce yourself (I’m not good at putting usernames to faces), and grab some Knife Thoughts swag! My favorite part of the Rendezvous is seeing other enthusiasts, so please help the Rendezvous be great and don’t be a stranger.
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I sincerely thank you for your time, support, and interest! Don’t forget to tell your friends about KnifeThoughts.com, subscribe via email, and share this article on social media. You can find Knife Thoughts on YouTube where I have hundreds of knife videos, as well as on Instagram and Facebook! You can find all my latest links at LinkTr.ee/KnifeThoughts
So you’re attending Blade Show and want to have the best experience possible? You’ve read the FAQ, maybe a Reddit post or two, and find yourself looking for more tips? Well I attended Blade Show for the first time in 2023 and have a couple suggestions you might not find elsewhere. If that sounds like what you’re looking for, read on!
My main knife purchase was a Spyderco Military 2, which I had laser etched by Way of Knife at the show. Looking back, I should have bought more knives!
1: Listen to other people’s suggestions… for the most part
There are LOTS of videos and articles out there about what you should and shouldn’t do at Blade Show. Check some of these out and listen to what they have to say… through your own filter of common sense and personal circumstances.
For example, you definitely should make sure to keep up with your hydration and hygiene (aka wear deodorant). It’s a crowded space where you’ll be walking all day (and Atlanta is HOT). Speaking of walking, wear reasonable shoes. But for most people those are probably common sense.
On the other hand, many suggest bringing cash over cards. While this might be true for the custom makers and smaller companies, most booths I spoke with took cards. In such a hectic environment, I would opt to keep my cash pool reasonable so as to not lose too much in a careless moment. There are ATMs available.
As many note, it’s better not to wear any large metal rings that can scuff knives when you pick them up. And on that note, it’s recommended to ask before handling any knives. If you aren’t SURE you know how the opening or closing mechanism works, just ask! You don’t want to be the person who cuts themselves at a knife show.
One tip that I should have taken more seriously is to plan your route within the show. Blade publishes a detailed MAP of the exhibitors. I would suggest taking a good close look at this and planning what you intend to see first, what you must see, and what all you want to see and then planning your walk through accordingly. It is EASY to get overwhelmed. Take your time, and if you’re going to make the trip give yourself the full 3 days. Two days is nowhere near enough to take everything in fully.
I didn’t know until the second day that there was wifi available to attendees, and I sure could have used it on that first day. Whether to post all the sweet newly announced knives to your socials, video call your wife to get the okay on a massive custom knife purchase, or just to look up somewhere good to get dinner wifi comes in handy. Once I was on the wifi it worked well. Fun story, before I was aware of this the Hawk brothers’ mother allowed me to use her phone… and tried to sell me a Deadlock!
DISCLAIMER: There is no mention of the wifi on Blade Show’s site. They even recommend dealers purchase wifi from the Cobb Galleria. I recall the wifi being publicly accessible, but I don’t know if this was a fluke or something of that nature. As always, look to your security when using public internet access. Don’t get your phone hacked by using the public wifi at my recommendation, please!
3: Ask about pricing… you might be surprised
Show pricing is all over the place. Many knives are priced right in line with what you’d find normally online, but some are significantly discounted and others are actually more expensive (such as the Spyderco Military 2 I bought). Show exclusive knives are often lower priced than their normal counterparts and, being only available at the show, more desirable. I wish I had realized this about Microtech’s show exclusive, as I definitely would have bought one.
Above: A beautiful sword from a maker I didn’t note down, and Matt Collum’s offerings (I meant to and still need to get one of his Barlows)
4: Take pictures… with people
The connections you make are the best part of the show. At my first Blade Show last year I got to meet so many people that I’ve conversed with online through my time in the community, not to mention catch up with old friends. While it’s great to get pictures of the countless knives you’re sure to handle, I recommend focusing on the people. If you have a great conversation with a maker, company rep, or a fellow enthusiast take the time to snap a quick picture. You’ll be glad you did!
I love what Ben Petersen brings to the knife world and I grew up watching Lynn Thompson in his “Proof” videos, so it was great to meet them! I wish I had pictures with the other people I met and friends I caught up with.
5: Be Early… for Everything
The early bird gets the worm when it comes to Blade Show… literally. Early bird tickets allow for entry into the exhibit halls 1 hour before general admission. This extra hour is your chance to get that hard to snag custom or small batch knife that has eluded you… but it’s no guarantee. If you want a highly sought after knife, you should get in line early. I can’t tell you exactly when, but we’re talking the wee hours of the morning. I got in line at 8am and wasn’t even inside the building. You also will want to book your hotel early (and if you’re reading this for the 2024 Blade Show… good luck). I had to stay a little ways away in nearby Buckhead, but it worked out fine. Speaking of early, even the less sought after knives can sell out and auctions / raffles can close so make sure you get to any booths that have your “must buys” first. This will all ensure you have the experience you want without undue stress or FOMO.
All that said, the main thing is to have fun! I went in large part to make connections in person with people I’ve worked with through Knife Thoughts and it was a resounding success. I bought VERY few knives, but I would recommend getting that knife you really want (as long as it’s in your budget). The connections you make and the knives you get will all be reminders of your trip to Blade Show!
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BONUS: The Atlanta Airport is busy… the busiest in THE WORLD
The fact that the Atlanta airport is the busiest in the world surprised me… until I was in it! It is incredibly large and bustling. There is a full on raised train that takes you between concourses. Security lines can get LONG. On a recent un-knife-related trip I waited about 1.5 hours in security at the Atlanta airport. All this amounts to the fact that you should give yourself extra time and be prepared for a little stress and delays. This of course goes along with being early to everything, but I decided to add it as a post script thought since it isn’t directly related to the show.
I sincerely thank you for your time, support, and interest! Don’t forget to tell your friends about KnifeThoughts.com, subscribe via email, and share this article on social media. You can find Knife Thoughts on YouTube where I have hundreds of knife videos, as well as on Instagram and Facebook! You can find all my latest links at LinkTr.ee/KnifeThoughts
If you’ve been following Knife Thoughts, you know I’m a fan of Jack Wolf Knives. I’ve been extremely fortunate to get to check out a knife from every run they’ve done. The quality, design, consistency, and style has blown me away and they’re really in their own category in the market. That said, I’m definitely aware that they’re not inexpensive. That’s why I’m excited about the Jack Wolf Knives Spring Sale!
From now till 4/21 all Jack Wolf Knives models (excluding the Gunslinger) are 20% off at dealers. For most models that amounts to $60 saved! I suggest getting yours at Traditional Pocket Knives or Knives Ship Free. Austin (TPK) and Jay (KSF) are two of the good guys in the industry and also offer nice rewards programs on top of the sale. Pickings are getting slim, but here’s a few great options from TPK and KSF;
Pioneer Jack: Ben, owner of Jack Wolf Knives, does an incredible job of creating modern versions of traditional patterns that respect the source. The Pioneer Jack is a great example of that as an updated Peasant Knife (aka Sod Buster or Bullnose or whatever name a company decides to call it). The Pioneer Jack feels ready for real work, and a little burlier than most other JWK models. Available in DLC coated Jigged Titanium as of this writing.
Sharpshooter Jack & Advanced Knife Bro Stump Lifter
I hope you’re able to take advantage of this great opportunity to get a superb knife at a significant discount! If this will be your first Jack Wolf knife I think you’ll be thoroughly impressed with the quality. If it’s your first traditional / non-locking pocket knife, I hope it kicks off an enduring love of slipjoints. Either way, don’t forget to go out and do good!
Here’s a playlist of all my Jack Wolf Knives videos… there’s a lot of them!
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I sincerely thank you for your time, support, and interest! Don’t forget to tell your friends about KnifeThoughts.com, subscribe via email, and share this article on social media. You can find Knife Thoughts on YouTube where I have hundreds of knife videos, as well as on Instagram and Facebook! You can find all my latest links at LinkTr.ee/KnifeThoughts
P.s. Thanks as always to Ben, Donnie, and everyone at Jack Wolf Knives for bringing these incredible knives to fruition and giving me the opportunity to check them out and share my thoughts on them!
