Sam Stoner (Amish Made) Scottsville, KY Custom Skinner with Burl Oak Handles

A rarity among custom knifemakers in that he is an  "Old Order Mennonite" (Swiss German and south German heritage who practice a lifestyle without some elements of modern technology, who dress plain and who have retained the old forms of worship, baptism and communion.)

Sam does not use any electricity or motors in his shop. All of his equipment is connected to pulleys and belts on a overhead drive shaft which is powered by two large draft horses walking on a treadmill.  Instead of forging his blades in a gas furnace he uses a hand crank coal fired forge. (which provides for a more even and adjustable air flow). 

Most of us are inconvenienced by a couple of hours of no electricity whereas it is hard to imagine running a complete knife shop without electric! or phone! The results are truly remarkable.

This skinner features a 3 3/4" Hand Forged Blade made of 1080 Carbon Tool Steel (differential heat treated) with Burl Oak Handles.  This Handmade Skinner would make for a superb field dressing knife and is shaving sharp. Full Tang Construction. Overall length is 8". 

The handmade leather sheath is a deep fitting sheath, designed so you won't lose it in the field and is lightly tooled.  Blade is marked with the maker's initials "SS" on the front side of the tang. The perfect piece for those who want a blade made the traditional true way (coal forged), and are looking for a no nonsense, handmade, razor sharp , skinner. 

This model will appeal to collectors, hunters, rendezvous/ re-enactors /renaissance folks, or the general outdoorsman/lady.  Sam is a member of the ABS; (American Bladesmith Society). Look for more of Sam's knives coming your way including some exclusive daggers and tomahawks with some exclusive pieces found only at AIK..