Knife of the Week Model 3 !!!

Happy Birthday Mr. Bomb!

I Think these are the only #3s I own:










The sheath is not original to the knife and I still don't have the correct stone for it. This is NOT an advertisement to purchase the stone, after my trip I don't have $5 left over to send to Rhett, so if you have the correct stone for sale, please DO NOT email me at silverknife1@aol.com and tell me how much you want for the stone including shipping.

Thanks

Regards, Doug

Ha, Doug, that's a good one. Very nice knives too.
~dale

Beauties Doug.

Thanks for posting these beauties Doug.
The raven caws at midnight.
Kevin

Doug,

I have the answer, just sell the new one to Tom & the old one to Joe! Nice Blades Dude!!!!!

See Ya, Chief

Chief, Now why didn't I think of that??? Uh Oh. NOW I may owe Rhett that $5.00. CARP!!!

Kevin: The North Wind Chills the hands of the Children at play.

Regards,
Doug

Doug,
Very sweet #3's!
Rob

Hey what is the secret code you guys have going on? You aren't some kind of spies sending messages are you? I mean Doug has been out of the country, Hum?

Those who talk don't know and those who know don't talk. 'nuff said?

Regards, Doug

Thanks to everyone for posting
Doug,
Even if the butterfly loses a wing, it is still beautiful, yet it flies in circles.
Kevin

Here are a couple more miniature model #3s. The top one is a first generation mini #3. The bottom is a second generation mini 3 serial number #911. This is the only depiction I did of the twin towers.

Rick and Doug,

Great looking #3's. Doug, Have you received any replies to your "Secret" inquires?

Kent
RKS #109
Life Member NRA

Inquiries?? I didn't make any inquiries about a stone to go with that Pinned Ivory #3-7. Did you think that Iwas making any inquires?? Probably that's why I did not receive any responses.

Regards, DOug

Tom, it seems that you are my alter-ego. ;My M1A1 Folding Stock, 1944 Inland Div., with original jump case, and .45 NM - last one from Gov. Springfield Armory, MA. I knew you had wonderful taste. [I still have unopened cannister of .30 Ball I got in 1960]. Again, congratulations on your discriminating taste in 'iron'

Wonderful 3's Edo thanks for sharing them with us.
Kevin

Great stuff !!!

Thanks, as always for the contribution.

Dubie

Ron,
That's a great find! You mentioned the guy was carrying it as a user, so evidently it had a sheath with it? What does the sheath look like?
~dale

Thanks, Dubie!

Dale: Good question and another interesting part of the story. The gentleman had picked up the knife a number of year before without a sheath. He had cut out the back pocket of a pair of Levis, wrapped the blade in that and then just stuck that "package" in the back pocket of the pair of Levis he was wearing! As luck would have it I had picked up a period sheath a couple of months earlier: An e-bay seller had put up a mismatched WWII Hunter with a 5 5/8" blade and a sheath accomodating a 7" blade. Although he put photos of both the knife and sheath in each auction he was selling the knife and sheath separately. I got the sheath but not the knife:



The sheath was the earliest Heiser I had ever seen made for a Hunter. Only these very earliest Heiser sheaths did not have the "edge trimming" around the stone pocket flap and the other unsewn edges including the retainer strap. You can see a few of these in Hunt's books. This one also has oversized painted buttons and is set up for right side carry ("Edge down" carry as Mr. Gaddis would say") which is unusual for a pre 'mid '46 Heiser sheath). In any event I would be hard pressed to find a better fit.

Oops. I forgot about this Model #3-5. Can I show it even though it got all scratched up? Must have happened in the safe when Rick Bowles and David Perdue snuck into the house while I was away. Those pesky fellas. Happened a while ago though.









Regards, Doug

Ron,
What a great knife and story. So much character in the blade. Thanks for sharing with us.
Kevin

Doug,
Those merry pranksters. Putting all those scratches on your knife whilst you were gone.
We all feel your pain.
Maybe we could have a scratch and dent thread.
Thanks for sharing.
Kevin

Grazie Kevin!
------------------------


Doug, Cape Hatteras?

Edo, That was a picture taken before the lighthouse was moved. Now it is 1600 feet away from the water.

Dubie

Dubie, the reason they moved it was......they read Al Gore`s book and realized that very shortly we are all gonna be up to our butts in salt water, a very good reason to buy stainless!!

Edo, yes, definately the Hatteras Light. One of Rick's favorite subjects.





That's Rick doing a little surf fishing in front of the light.

Regards, Doug

Here are some of my Model 3s. (Though I must say that after seeing so many incredible examples in this thread, humility nearly kept me from posting).



A #3-7 (01 standard, 2005) and #3-7 (01 standard, late 70s) side-by-side comparison:
(Someone polished the brass on the 70’s knife at some point in the recent past—takes away from the “vintage” look of the piece, alas).





Handle comparison:





Top to bottom, #3-7 (01 standard, 2005), #3-7 (01 standard, 70s), #3-6 (01 NS hilt, late 60s/early 70s), #3-3 ½ (otherwise known as Mini 3, 2002)





The two vintage, side by side:



And the #3-7 01 standard, 2005 all by itself, just because it’s so pretty:




And an endnote: the last pic of the 2005 #3-7 was taken when it was brand-new, 2 ½ years ago—compared to the other pictures, taken this weekend, you can see how quickly (and nicely, to my mind) the brass ages. (I’ll be happy when the brass on the older #3-7 ages again).

Gary

Dubie asked me to post these.
Dubie pointed out to me that it looks like he is holding Tiger Woods up. Duble, you are a merry prankster.

Gary,
Those are magnificent! I love the handle on the oldest one... the tapered leather from front to back is quite nice, although I would throw any of them out.
~dale

Hey Dubie, are you sure Tiger isn't a life size cardboard "cut out" from the local 7-11?? JK Dube. Nice pics.
~dale

Thanks Dale. Yours are great too! So many beautiful #3’s in this thread; Ron’s picture of old #3’s is phenomenal. But the one that really catches my eye is Edo’s, with the antique gold (?) Micarta and finger grips, brass butt plate and thong… wow.

I’ve been thinking about what to order for my boys, now 12 and 13, as an identical set, name etched, to arrive for HS graduation. And I’ve been leaning toward the #3-5, but now I think I have the complete configuration. Just like Edo’s—spectacular, not too big, not too small—a real show piece, but a great user too. Perfect. I’ve always liked the pretty #3-5 in antique gold and finger grips Randall shows on the foldout in the catalog but I’m not sure I would have thought of the brass butt plate—seals the deal.

Thanks, Gary

Ps. That bottom picture of Dubie and Tiger screams for a caption…

Something like, “OK! I’ll sign it! Just take it easy.”

Ok Dubie, now I promise I won't tell anyone you're my neighbor....and I will pay up! Did Tiger like the Randall?
Does he know anything about them?

Neil

Tiger looked pretty excited about Dubie's Randall.
Who's the guy in the back with the orange shirt? He's sure watching things closely.Might be Tomthebomb.

Tiger has known about RMK ever since he moved to Orlando. I always wore one to his shoots. I was telling him about the #3-4".

The guy in the orange shirt is one of the best dive captains on the West Coast of Florida, who was one of my grips on the Nike shoot.

Dubie

"Papa bear, Mama bear and Baby bear" Here's a 3 on steroids contrasted with a 3-7 and a 7-5 all from approximately the same era (late 50's / early 60's). The blade is 8 1/2" out of 3/8" stock.

Dubie,
What were you thinking?!?
If Tiger takes a liking to Randall Made Knives the backlog will be 84 months!!!

Dammit Ron!
I refuse to look at those old Randalls!
You know why!!!

Ron, you need that Model #3-4" I was showing to Tiger, to round that set out.

Did the sheath on Papa Bear say 3-8?

Dubie

Ron, It "JUST" says Papa Bear?

That's amazing. Was it stamped in from Maurice?

I never heard of a personal stamping on the back of a Johnson sheath. Can you show us a picture?

Andy Thornal had the only personal stamp on the front.

Dubie Baxter

Dubie,

Please don't take me seriously when I put up a smiley face. That knife was made for display and didn't come with a sheath.

Hope springs eternal...Oh well.

Dubie

Tom:
Your "Everyone has seen this photo before but here it is again!" is as if one has to explain going back to view a Mondrian at the museum. An M1A1 and 1911 A1 , and even if you have to put a Randall on them [grin++], is always satisfying viewing. Thanks.

Having nothing better of what all you Guys posted here,
I put this "combo":



Greg made it.
Guido

. . .who said: MONDRIAN . . .




Best
Guido

Guido,
Bellisima. Mi piace!
Tony

Great photography Guido !!!!

Did Edo take them?

Dubie

Dubie...I will tell you if you tell me your pic with Tiger is real or not !( you are so smart we cannot see shadows on tee-shot...)
As a golf playier I'm envying you...
I do not shot pics...I'm the Art Director...
Best
Guido

Hi Guido,

amazing photo !
May I know the blade length of the pinned stag knife?
Do you know the EDO Award Photo Contest?

Ciao

Guido, Tiger and I have been working together on about 30 commercials over the years.

I have a pretty impressive collection of original pictures, mpeg's, etc.

Out of respect to him, I have never shown any, until these pics on the Forum.

I didn't know you worked in film. Did you know Federico Fellini?

Dubie Baxter

Guido,
That is the most amazing Randall "combo" I have ever seen!
Very nice sir.

Guido..... is that old brown micarta?

Tunefink: Yes...OBM
EDO: both are 6"
Tom: thanks alot... also same serial #
Dubie: congrats for working with Tiger: his(your) commercial are super... Art director, in my case, is: I give the idea and/or put together stuff & knives to be shooted...
Only that
All the best
Guido

Guido,

I have to wipe the drool off the keyboard what I look at your photos! Very Impressive!

Kent

RKS #109

Let's bring the #3 thread back for a new photo.

Tom,
Is that "white ash" and "cherry red micarta" on those handles? If so..N-I-C-E !! If not..N-I-C-E !! Best, Capt. Chris

Capt. Chris, thanks.

They are Cherry Red Micarta and "Ivory" (not white) Micarta.

I can see it better in the "close-up". I bought a piece of white ash at the Blade show last year. It looks very similar at a distance. "Still"..Nice knives.
Best, Capt. Chris

Those are beauties Tom.

Kevin

Since Tom has brought this thread alive again, here's a couple of pictures of my 3-5 with ivory that I've picked up since this thread was first started.


Dan Snyder RKS #5537

Thanks Dan.
This is why Jesse kept this going.

Here is an oldie user that I got a few months ago. Worn-out Heiser sheath and pinned stag.

More photos. This knife walked up to my table at a show, so I took it home.

And here is a more recent #3-6 I bought at a show in Virginia.

Nice, well used #3. As much as I like the model 12's I'm starting to have a real appreciation for models 3's and 5's.
Dan Snyder RKS #5537

Yep, I like #3s and #5s mostly. I posted these photos before on another thread, but I'll put them here for you. It's a 3-7 from about 1961-62. It came from an Antique Mall in Virginia.

New #3 just in from Treeman Knives said to be made from old Westinghouse micarta.

Great addition to the micarta family Tom.

Kevin

Tom,

Must have been a good day! Nice knife, good luck.

Best,
Warren

Another Package From The Godfather?

That Ain't No Cannoli !

That's A Keeper

Here's one I think I've posted a photo of before, but not in the Model 3 thread. It was bought by a gentleman after reading an article about Bo in the December, 1953 issue of True Magazine.

Best,

Ron, That sure is a ugly model 3. What say I take it off your hands!!

Here's a very nice 3-7 Crown Stag from the early 60's. The sheath is the worse for wear but the blade is original. Only several insertion scratches are somewhat visible. I just love crown stag knives! I am in need of a stone for this one though.

Best,
Warren

Here is my Model 3 6" and Model 3 Mini that I got from Perry this past fall. I had been seeing a lot of stag pictures so I needed to have some of my own

Peter

Our good friend, Kent Warnberg, wanted to share some of his knives and sheaths with us. Model 3-5" with beautiful red color stag with fingergrips and a compass in the butt and a croc sheath. Kent has carried this when deer hunting and has used it to dress several deer.
Thank you,
Kevin

Here is a model 3-5" SS blade,red FG stag, NH and butt plate. Engraved by Ron Skaggs.

handle close-up

Other side

Last one.

That's a real beauty Burnie.
Thanks for sharing.
We all appreciate you taking the time to post.

Kevin

Yep, that's a dandy for sure. My #3 is my newest "favorite" user.

Friends,

This #3 was built by many of you , on "the other build", that CCS ran. I have used it in the field, and it slices through the chest of whitetails with No problem.
I don't carry the crock sheath when I am hunting, I use the original one.

Kent
RKS #109

Here's a nice #3 that I haven't photographed until now.
The other side of the handle is even more "knarly!"

Tony,
As a matter of fact, while grilling outside a few minutes ago, I cranked up a "Fuente"!! Here's a #3-5" with nice stag!!
Best, Capt. Chris

Nice Model 3's Tony and Capt. Chris.
Thanks for taking the time to post.

Kevin

PS Smoking is hazardous to your health.

Kevin

Cool Randall, Captain!
And I also just finished grilling ... a 4 pound chicken, slathered in olive oil and Tuscan seasonings...
surrounded by cut up corn on the cob bathed in ... what else ...OLIVE OIL and Italian herbs and spices...
ya do this and you'll never eat corn on the cob with butter again!
Anyway ... I skipped the stogie tonight ...had a nice locally hand rolled beauty last night!
Great lookin' grips on that #3-5, by the way!
• KEVIN ... You're very welcome! (Knives can be hazardous to your health too! )
Stay well my Friends,
Tony

Tony,
Here's one to grill with. One of Rick's first 10 (S/N008)!!
Best, Capt. Chris

Model #3-6", stainless steel, nickel silver single hilt, custom "black & white" spacers, Westinghouse "Old Yeller" micarta handle and a duralumin butt cap!!
Best, Capt. Chris

Oh Yeah!
That'll do a nice job on a rare rib eye!
Tony

Tony,

You mean a "rub eye" for if the Captain ever uses this beauty......

Best,
Warren

8 1/2" vs. 3 1/2"

"Mini MEow"

In continuing with our Christian Men's Knife project, this is the second knife (of three) in the series, a Model 3-7. For this knife we decided on a Model 3-7 with the following specs for the following reasons:

This is the Good Shepherd knife and if you were to stand this knife on end (if you have a little sense of imagination) it resembles a shepherd's staff.

We have a 7" stainless steel blade because Jesus's life was stainless.

All black spacers because as Christian men we feel sorry for the agony that He went through on the cross for our salvation.

A presentation gray buckeye burl handle to signify the wood of the staff.

Our sheath is black basket weave to represent the crown of thorns on Jesus's head and, as you can see, there is a cross on the sheath.

As with the first knife, the sheath and this knife definitely go hand in hand and in my opinion, without the one, there cannot be the other.

The 23rd Psalm is one of my favorite passages from the Bible. For those of you who don't know it, it reads as follows:

Psalm 23
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

A special thanks to Jim Parker for his excellent suggestion on what the name of the second knife should be. Thank you to all the skilled craftsmen at the shop for turning out such a glorious knife. And Greg Gutcher for using his truly God-given gift for another leather masterpiece. Thank you to Leanna and Gary Clinton for their tireless efforts and for being patient with my numerous phone calls and emails regarding this 3-knife series. I personally feel the knife and sheath are fantastic, and there are other Christian men who will be posting their knives in the near future.

Thank you,
Kevin

Wow!! What a beauty!!

That is a fantastic knife and sheath combination Kevin.

Kevin, what a terrific testimony with a beautiful Randall. I had not heard about this project before now. Thanks for sharing, Bill J.

Truly exceptional Kevin.

Where can we find out more about this project ? Is there a thread somewhere on the forum ?

Kevin,
AN ABSOLUTE BEAUTY!
The black spacers are perfect with the gray buckeye burl.
An Outstanding Randall Knife!
Tony

I saw Captain Chris today at the Lakeland Gun and Knife Show. He showed me the first (?) of the "Mission" knives with handles made from Challenger insulation. Wait till you guys get a load of this one.

Hopefully, Captain will post a photo soon.

Dubie Baxter

My rarest is the Model #3-4" that is the first knife shown on page 1 of the Model #3 thread.

Only 5 #3-4"'s were ever made, and 3 of them are in permanent collections.

Dubie Baxter

Kevin,

Well done brother. In these days in takes a real man to stand up and say "Yeah I'm a man of commitment"

I'll be posting mine soon.

See Ya,

Chief

I picked up this 3-5 this weekend from a friend. Options are: Nickle silver hilt and butt cap with exposed nut and wrist thong. Exceptional polished stag, JRB sheath in good condition and two tone grey stone. Knife was worn but never used or sharpened.
Thanks for looking,

Dan Snyder #5537

Nice looking knife Dan. The stag looks great.
Thanks for posting on The Knife Of The Week.

Kevin

...recently added this Model #3-5" to my collection.

this is my 3/5

Rex!
What happened to your photo!!??
Fabio,
Very nice #3 ... 5" blade, make a great user!

Here's my Model #3-5 'Hunter', that I'd like to add to the thread.

Classic! Looks great!

Here is a nice 60's Model 3-7 with a beautifully aged and perfect ivory handle. I hope you enjoy seeing it.

- Jim

Gorgeous!

Jim. How come your Ivory always seems so perfect, and mine always seems to crack? Great looking knife.

Sidney,

I think it has something to do with the lack of a butt cap allowing the ivory to move.

Attached is a photo of the sheath.

- Jim

Great looking knife, Jim! I have one that's pretty darned close to it:

http://www.knifetalkforums.com/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Main=6276&Number=67004#Post67004

Best,

Ron

Ron,

Your knife could be the twin to mine. Very nice, and a great story of your restoration!!

Here is another, a later model with the same type of handle, but some wild animal took up residence on it!

- Jim

This is my first #3-6". Really a great user!!

Jim and Ron,
Those #3s are classic looking beauties!
Daniele ...
A terrific user with great looking stag! And the compass is a nice touch.
BELLISSIMO!!!!!
Tony

Thanks, Jim. I don't remembner seeing that scrimmed piece of yours before. Very impressive!

Daniele: It's hard to beat a 3-6 for an all around user. That's the only model I had for almost 40 years.

Thanks, Tony!

Daniele,

That's a nice Model 3. The classic blade shape and stag make a great combination.

I love mine with stag also.

Best wishes, Jim

Tony, Ron...
Thanks for your kind comments...
Jim...WOW!!!
Best,

Adding my Model #3-5" "Hunter" to the thread...I supplied the Lignum Vitae for this build.

Rex,
That's real nice looking! Beautiful wood!
Tony

Tony...thank's for the comment, I guess you can tell I'm fond of Lignum Vitae wood.

Rex
Great model 3, how is the balance with the heavy wood, it looks like it would be good

Peter

Peter...as you know LV is a heavy, dense wood so the shop put in a compass and worked the profile of the handle and the balance is great.

Here is my Randall RECON...I wish there was a page on the 'Knife of the week' thread for this Model #3 variant...but it is a Model #3 so I have listed it here.

Enjoying the first snowfall here in Switzerland...

Nice photo! At first I thought it was carbon steel

...Cold steel at the time of the photo!!!!


Nice shot!

Glad you received it AOK! You've got some more coming.
Thanks, Capt. Chris

You will get a lot of use out of that knife for sure in the Alps. Enjoy!

Tom Vaught

Thank you for your comments!
Here clean and safe at home...

Very Nice Photo!!!!!

Very nice #3 fighter and the options are a real WOW!!

Pap

Hi all!

Would - in your opinion - the standard Model 3 5" be a good all around woods knife, not for game prepping chores but for all the other things you need a knife for in the woods?

I realize that the Model 5 is the "Camp & Trail" knife, but I allready have a Model 1 on order and feel that the two are quite close, so I'm looking out for a dealer Hunter to soothe the pain of the five year wait.

Great choice Gustaf. Let us know how you want it optioned and I'm sure it'll turn up! I'll post photos (whenever I get a chance) of one I just picked up in ironwood. I'm sure "others" will join in.
Best, Capt. Chris

Thank you for your reply Captain!

I'm sure I won't be disapointed, but I feel that it is a good idea to ask around a little among more knowlegeable people - such as yourself - on the forum before I do the deed and go ahead and order one, since I wont have any use for a pure skinning knife.

Now it's bed time in the old world, but I hope you all have a nice evening over there!

Gustaf
The model 28 "Woodsman" is a great choice for an all around woods knife also. I like drop points a lot.

Peter

I agree with Peter.

The model 28 "Woodsman" fits the bill for so many "woods" type tasks. I gave my brother-in law a Woodsman for his birthday. It received a lot of compliments when it was used on the nice buck he got that fall in Michigan.

Randall Made Knives hit a home run with that model.

Tom Vaught

Yes, I'm considering the Model 28 as well... And it probably would work very good for my intended use, but I want to try the classics first, and that leather handle looks so comfortable!

(I consider the full tang Randalls kind of "a second generation")

The woodsman is definitely on short list for the future though.

Being as this thread is related to the Model #3, I think we should stay on that topic. Photos are encouraged.
Thanks, Capt. Chris

Sorry, no photo but I'd strongly encourage you to try the 3-5 if you want a "full size" knife.
I had a Woodsman twice and let both go because it just didn't fit my hand.
Just my 2ct.

I really appreciate all your input and pictures here friends!

I was under the impression that the different knives had somewhat different grinds and edge geometry, according to their intended use, i.e a skinning knife would have a more acute, but less sturdy edge than a more hard work oriented blade.

Hence my worry that a Model 3 would be to fragile for the job.

Gustaf,

I have a #3 6 inch stag that is a great general knife. Mine is great for general work, and has worked well on moose and bear. You can't go wrong with a #3.

Some of the other fellas commented on the #28. I used to have 2 of them, my #2 son has 1 of them now. Mine is part of my flyfishing gear, it is a great get wet knife.

Cheers,

Alan Grombacher
RKS#5531
RKCC-CMI-010

Thank you, Alan!

A #3 it shall be!

5", Tool steel, and a leather handle with lanyard hole, so nothing spectacular for this user.

Add light finger grips and nickle silver hilt. Still classic but a little more plush.

Pap

I just received this model 3 a couple weeks ago straight from the shop after a 4 1/2 year wait.

It was worth the wait!

Beautiful knife! Congratulations!
my expectation just begun

Looks like a great knife.

That is some beautiful scrimshaw on that ivory grip.

A 1960's Vietnam 3-7 with the Huey Pilots name engraved

Another way to view them....

Just arrived...
I love this old fashioned model 3!
Best,

classic ! really like it ! the sheath great condition also.

#3-5, a very good balance and comfortable in the hand

Agreed the 3-5 is my most used. ][/url]

For some reason the flash washed out the handle color??? It's like the pic above it really in fact it's the same model 3-5. Lol ][/url]

][/url]

Artificial lighting creates "wonders"

][/url]
Gotta love a model 3!!!!!

model 3-7" somehow the guy's at the shop missed with the S stamp. Must have been a Monday morning knife.......:)

Wasn't a Monday!!
They used to tell Scott that when the knife was finished that the "S" was like his stamp of approval
that he could put his initial on the blade to show that it was ready!!!

Heard that he cried when they had to tell him it meant Stainless

Naw, Chief everybody knows they're fakes from Oblakistan. I could probably give a hunnert bucks for them because I collect foreign made knives!!

My new "favorite" Randall just arrived yesterday from Gary Clinton.

A real dandy setup, and will be a great user.

Pap

Very nice! Did Clinton supply the yellow micarta or did you furnish it? Thanks.

I was able to purchase the AGM off eBay a while back, and sent it to Gary when the order was placed.

I can see why it is the automatic favorite. Real nice!

AGM and a tan leather sheath always look great together. Very nice set up!

Ok I'm jealous !!!! Awesome knife!!!! Congrats and use that baby!

#3's just feel good in your hand, this my 3-6.

][/url]

After 13 attempts, this is my final 3-5. It is perfect in every way for me. I may buy others to collect or display, but as for a user goes, this is it. First one in Stainless I might add. The blade shape, grind, thickness of spine, thinness of edge, handle shape, overall profile of knife, everything just clicked with me.

I give you #14.




Blade height comparison with #14 (the keeper) on left.



And blade thickness with #14 on the left.

Here's mine! "Pickled"!
Best, Capt. Chris

AG,

Randalls definitely vary in shape and profile and that is a particularly nice Hunter. Whoever ground the blade and put it together knew what they were doing.

Love the Model 3 "leather" Configuration.

The knife just shouts out: "TAKE ME TO THE WOODS!"

I have a Model #16 Special Fighter (that has my name on it) that told me the same thing when I received it.

Beautiful.

Tom V.

Ha ha you or the knife.....great stag!

The knife...
Capt. Chris

Awesome gnarly stag on that one, Cap.

I have one I will "Pickle" (A different Model) now that I see how it is done. I am a "VISUAL" type of guy.

Tom V.

New to the game, so I need to ask... Why are we pickling knives??

Goes to show, you can pickle anything!

Pickling, or forcing a patina, protects the surface of the blade to a degree and makes it more resistant to moisture and therefore does not rust at the sight of water.

Is this recommended more for the O-1 steel as opposed to stainless? ?

Yes...

I've always liked the look of the Capt's. Model 3 that was pickled. I need to do that to one someday.

It would be very difficult to force a patina on stainless. After all, it stains "less".

Found an oldie but Goodie

Hope yall like this pair of 3's

Is that a ward gay handle on the left 1?

Billy,
What's not to like!!!
:-)Rocky

a craving lol .....more like a hunger!!!
very nice my favorite handle.
Don't know where it is now but I paid through the nose for this one!!!

Damn...........I REALLY like that Sas!

Hey everybody,
Billy has asked me to delete some of his posts, as he had "timed-out" from being able to do himself. Gladly Brother: No sweat!
With regard to the Ward Gay handle shape on Billy's Model #3 (previous photos posted), some explanation is needed. If you look closely at the 2 knives, you will notice the ivorite is of different stock. The "newer", i.e.: "current" ivorite is shown on the left. It is ever-so-slightly "lighter" than the other stuff the shop used to offer.
Ward Gay handles are unavailable at this time. Back in the day they were available on certain models. Model #20's & #21's were often ordered in this handle shape. (I miss them) I will start a thread on Ward Gay handles, if you would all care to contribute...or , if nothing else, follow it. I am sure there will be a few examples turn up, knowing the extent of collectors (and collections) associated with this forum!
The Model #3 that Billy "purchased" from me in 2013 was shaped earlier than the purchase date. Billy, quite simply, did not know these facts and hence has asked me to revise posts just to keep the record straight.
Hope this helps, Capt. Chris
PS: I am slammed, getting ready to load and head out to Birmingham, Al. early in the morning for the AGCA (Alabama Gun Collectors Assoc.) show this weekend. I will grab a few example of Ward Gay handles and shoot some photos for the thread and get it started upon my return...CCS

Buy me something Capt! lol

Thanks Brother

Hope you have a great show Cap! I look forward to seeing you in Orlando in November, I am not thrilled about missing next weeks show!

Hope thet little(?) offshore wind doesn't throw you for a loop in Alabamaland this weekend.

I'd like to see some model 21's with a ward gay handle.

Capt. That would be great if you could create a thread on those handles Ward Gay ...... Just looked him up and he was quite a guy and his son Kirk runs everything now

Yeah wish I had it back........just the sheath left.

Got her tonight afterwork. Now I regret not taking the new 23 I have 😁 ][/url]

Very nice !

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What???? After all that, you leave that beautiful 23 at home?

At least that is a nice looking 3.

What's with that nice pricey Estwing hatchet. Don't you know there are $10 ones out there that would totally suffice.

$10 hatchets are ALLLL purpose! !!

Lol. I know right!!!! The 23 is the first knife I been reluctant to use. It is just amazingly beuatifu....l but I promise I will use it. Anyway long live the 3!!!!!

My #3-5 I bought in 1986

Perfect. Now all you need is Model 5 and you will have the "Big 3" of game users, IMHO.
Pap

That's a beauty! I asked the Randall shop if they would make one just like it, and they referred me to their 4F fighter. I wanted a model,three, with double guard, and sharpened top edge, but I guess this is not a request that they can accommodate.

Model #3 can, indeed, be ordered with "TB" (Top Bevel sharpened). They can also be ordered with a double hilt.
Best, Capt. Chris

Isn't that the configuration that a 'Recon' is based on ?
Less the etching of course !!

Late 60's era 3-6 wearing an early 60's Heiser sheath listed elsewhere in these fora, included here as a courtesy to those who wish to reference Randall model 3's.

That sheath!!!

can you post some better photos of the knife so we can see the blade and the rear of the sheath? What stone is in the pouch?

Whether by design or happenstance the knife exhibits a balance that is perfect, namely directly beneath the two rearmost spacers...held blade down or on either side.

The knife simply feels light and easy to handle and as such is my using knife.



The stone came with the sheath and has not been touched by a blade, pretty much pristine as was the sheath, of interest is the sheath had been soaked in an oil when produced and when I soaked the sheath in warm water to fit the knife it dried whilst still holding the oil and shape.
And the smell is one I have not smelt on leather since I was a lad, as the current leather produced simply does not smell the same.

Do you think that sheath may be a bit earlier than the early 60's?
Just asking.
Btw that is a beautiful rig. Great knife and great sheath.

I do not think so Ron, I tend toward 61-62 at the last of the Heiser run.

The knife and sheath seem to be made for each other, a much nicer fit than the current Sullivans.

Just luck of the draw.

Well they are both beauties. You did good.
Thanks.

Hayst,

FYI here is a 3-6 that was made the same time as your sheath (Very early 60's). Note the big difference in choil cuts vs your late 60's knife:



Here are a few more sheaths with those same snaps:



One of the above sheaths has the Heiser mark. The other is not marked at all:









Here is that same snap on a Heiser cartridge carrier:





It was pretty close to a decade after the first brown button outage in the very early 50's that it happened a second time.

Ron

Yes, I figured the centre awl hole combined with the plain steel button cemented the 61-62 dating.

Next I will look for a stag 7-4 with a Heiser sheath, not a pinned one though.

Actually earlier than 61-62. more like 59-60

I shall take your word for it, you fellows are better educated on the subject than I.

Great stuff. Thanks for sharing.

Ron I'm sure you have explained the unmarked sheath somewhere before but can you explain that one to me please.
Thanks.

It just "happened" sometimes, Ronnie. I had a Circa 1948 4-7 that came with a Heiser sheath with no markings. No rhyme or reason as far as I know.

Gotcha....never knew that.
Thanks for the info.
Ronnie

I'm confused. Hayst is fairly confident that the knife and sheath are original to eachother, yet the knife and sheath were made nearly a decade apart?

Hi Tom,

You may have missed his comment on the previous page:




Best,

Ron

No, they are not, I purchased them separately.

Link to thread.

Thanks Ron. Reading too fast.

Hayst, I remember your thread now. Thanks!

Here is my one and only Model 3. And I can see why it's one of the most popular Randalls. Carbon, stag, and brass. Just the way I like em...

Really nice stag. I see why you like it.

Another beautiful photo and knife.

Love the red stag on this 3-7

That one is nearly flawless Randy, sweet.

Thanks..
Wish I had a truck load of that stag.

Here you go Randy. You got 2 more wishes, use wisely.

I used to have one of the suppliers at blade bring in boxes for me to pick thru, crown & large real rough exterior pieces.

Here is the latest addition to my small collection. A model 3-7 with beautiful stag finger-grooved handle.

Nice model 3 and I would take that load of stag if it comes with the truck.

That's a dandy early 70's knife. Grips make a knife.

Very nice old #3, great stag, lots of character. Nice find !

#s 3 and 4 are starting to grow on me!

RECON #65

3-5 Daytona bike week 50th anniversary 1991. SS, squared ns,stag compass.

Damn, using a Randall for a bike week souvenir, how very classy.

Here is a new one for me. A 3-5 with some great stag, and a lot of patina. The spacer stack is a little odd on it I thought. Well, they are hand-made.


Randall-3-6-a by Bill Singer, on Flickr

There's an additional white spacer. Great popcorn stag, very nice.

VERY cool Will!!!
After what I witnessed today a #3-5" has shot ti the top of my wish list!!

And you are a witness to? Can't wait to hear,

In due time bro!

Oh I see you've set the bait.

He's seeding the mine!!!! HMMM....They were in the woods... HMMM??

[quote=willhunt] Here is a new one for me. A 3-5 with some great stag, and a lot of patina. The spacer stack is a little odd on it I thought. Well, they are hand-made.


Great stag on that knife and I hope to get set up to take photos like that - one of my goals this year.

My latest Model 3. A 3-6 with finger-grooved pinned stag, and nickel silver guard.

Randall-3-finger-1 by Bill SingerRandall-3-finger-2 by Bill SingerRandall-3-finger-4 by Bill SingerRandall-3-finger-3 by Bill SingerRandall-3-finger-5 by Bill Singer

Another beauty, Will.

My latest, a 3-7, just love the honey color of the gnarly stag.

That's a honey alright George.

This one is my Model 3-7" with #6 grind.
I think this sheath is a newer then the knife.

Please tell us more about that Bad boy!

Will
That knife Will Hunt
Love that pinned stag and finger groves
wish this one was
Sharpi

After five years of waiting, today has arrived. #3-7.

Awsome!!

Pap

Got curves?

Very nice
Let us know how it cuts
Sharpi

Love amber and really dark stag. Worth the wait IMO, congrats and use it well.

one of my favorite RMK models.

Sexy!

Here is a Model 3-5 fighter, with nickel silver double hilt, and lovely pinned stag. And a very cool compass that I found in my Dads stuff.

How old is that 3-5 that was your dads? Sure looks good!

I believe that is a 6"

Nice Model 3, and it will serve you well.

Pap

Here are a pair of Model 3-6's with the low "S". One in stag, and the other with finger-grooved ivory, and a #6 grind.

Not fair to show these. Still wonder why you can't get a #6 grind on a Model 3 but you can on a Model 7. Those are 2 beauties.

Pap

Thank you pappy.

Willhunt

Superb!! Low S RMK are the best.

Not sure where your info but I know a guy and he says you can get a 3-6 with the #6 grind...

So I can order a Model 3-6 with a #6 grind?

Pap

Yes, 3-6, 3-7,4-6, and 4-7 as a chargeable option

Many thanks for that clarification.

Pap

That #3 with a 6 grind would be a heck of a slicer. If you just used it on animals and perhaps very soft wood from time to time it would be the way to go!

Any available pic's of said super slicer??

I always thought that a Model 3-6" with a #6 grind, would be a top hunting knife. I have the 9" Model 6 and use it for all my large cuts, so the 6" version would be perfect for most game applications. Expect my order pretty soon. Now if it was available with a pouch sheath.....

Pap

Steve there is one in the last page, notice the two knives one with the 6 grind.

Mike you can find a good sheath maker to make you one!

Of course, the best pouch sheath maker for a Randall, would be from the current Randall sheath maker. That being said, there are a number of prominent makers that could do a good job. If the knife is a user, the sheath is unimportant as a collectable so all depends on your personal desires.
Pap

Bought this for my wife's camping/outdoor wife. Great mixture of function and beauty in my opinion. Has a compass in the end of the handle as well.

Chief that's in my opinion a perfect setup.
Stunning in appearance but also 100% ready to go to work.
I"m still amazed how versatile the #3 is.
I'm considering a similar setup on a Model 4,but this knife may have changed my mind.

Gordon.

Sorry Chief,I was reffering to your knife on page 1.
Gordon

Very nice JC. Your wife should be a happy camper.

Dennis

Thanks, Gordon

My most recent Randall. #3-6"

Very nice! Love that stag and the low is cool.

Well I've never owned a #3-6" or any #3 of any type so this one feels pretty special. But all my Randalls feel pretty special. This one came about after many phone conversations with the Captain, as I feel certain he'd agree, BUT ain't it fun talking about Randalls?? Sorry about the pics but I took some today as soon as I unwrapped it and there's a little glare on the beautiful #6 grind that I do like so much. I don't believe there are many of these pictured on this thread (probably wrong). Thanks Capt. Chris.

Wow, a #3 with a #6 grind, far out.

Pap

Nice catch, a Duke.
Walker

From our 2019 bear season and deer season. No luck shooting a bear but did shoot some nice pics

https://i.imgur.com/dO1Zkz7.

https://i.imgur.com/R5e6ybo.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/yu8vaiP.jpg

Here is one of your pictures:

Thanks. I know it’s my pic but man that’s sexy

@Cut it out,

You have some great knives and you take awesome pics!

Thanks. I just use my phone to take pics. No apps or anything just whatever it comes with

Just received this 3-7 in fighter configuration today. SS, FC, BM, BPH, and properly sharpened around the point and top to back cut if needed. Sorry about the photo, I'm using a tablet, they never open.

Hope all y'all are good and healthy.

John

One more of the 3-7.

Salty's Model 3, pretty cool. Don't know that I've ever seen a 3 with a FCH, but I like it. Nice touch...

@Michael - Thanks for opening the photo and the comment!

Hope all have a good day!

Here is a model 3 with gorgeous crown stag.

And here is another model 3-6 with that pretty pinned stag that I love so much.

Nice pair
They Will Hunt
Sharpi

Willhunt,

Really impressed with your photography.

If you're interested in sharing your technique, add it in my thread I started in the Picture Gallery, "How To Improve Your Knife Photos."

The guiding comments are on the first page of the thread.

Willhunt, those are amazing!

Never seen this color green. Not sure if this is shop or CW micarta, but it makes me happy.

looks more like G10 in the old tenite color

I thought it was micarta because of the grain. I have some Forest Green G-10 spacers that I put side by side. That's it! Thanks Cut-In-Run for the feedback.

Green tenite G-10 or more precisely, "Ranger Green" from the folks I order from. It is current stuff and has been around for about 10 years or so...give or take.
Hope this helps,
Stay Sharp, Capt. Chris
PS: Here's a Model #10 in Ranger Green G-10...
CCS

How neat is that !

My Model 3-5"..Liam Hoffman 'Trapper' hatchet and a very old steel trap.

Great pic! My 3-5 is very similar and love that knife. Will be taking it on its annual bear hunt in a week and a half! Just touched up the edge today preparing it for the trip.

See if this works. Almost forgot how to post pics been so long since I been lurking around these parts.

Nice shot Cut.

Dennis

The 3-5 is a awesome knife!!!

Again if I posted these before sorry. I’m getting old I guess and I’m getting excited to take them out soon for our bear season after thanksgiving I will have new pics from this seasons bear hunt in a few weeks

Nobody's home? This is a great thread to breathe some life back into.
Stay Sharp, Capt. Chris
PS: 7 spacer #3-5" in Delrin....CCS

Capt.....you must be rearranging your sock drawer!!!

:-)ROcky

Little bigger...but "Yeah"!
Best, Capt. Chris

Cut It:
This is "exactly" what I meant questioning: "What about everything else"? Nothin' finer than well-worn leather! Here's my #3-6,leathered-up and re-finished by the shop in the early 90's.
Best, Capt. Chris
"PS" M. Johnson, tight, baby dot, proper hone...CCS

A 3-7 with more of my favorite pinned stag.

Terrific !! 👏