The wood for this build has been purchased and is on its way to the US.

I'll let the Captain show you what it looks like when he gets it, but here are a couple of pieces I chose for m myself and Kevin (VKLough46)

Outstanding Graham! Thanks so much for the generous offer. I hope to get the source from you so I may receive more over time. Best to Kate...
Best, Capt. Chris

The ringed gidgee arrived! It's the middle of the night and I'm working on my knife specs. I'll shoot a couple of pics as soon as I get the chance.
Graham: Again, thanks for the wonderful gift to this build. Best to Kate.
Best, Capt. Chris

I have not forgot about ya' crew! I have purchased new photo equipment...It's 107 (heat index) and that's my excuses...and I'm stickin' with 'em!
The ringed gidgee is sizable, measuring 1 3/8"x 1 1/2"x 5(+) inches. It will make most anything you folks decide on....SO: Why don't we decide? How about some ideas...and I'll wet this ringed gidgee down and shoot a couple of shots in the next few days. There's no sense in holding up the building plans, just because the walkin' boss is not holding up his end.
I would suggest that we try and utilize as much of this fine handle material as possible. I don't care what we build. I never care "what" we build..."BUT"...(There's that word again) I just hate to see exotic handle material go to waste. That being said: Talk it over...
Best, Capt. Chris

Is the size large enough for a bowie handle? If so, my suggestion would be a large Smithsonian Bowie 12-11. I don't think we've done one of those for one of the Captains builds. If we can't do a 12-11 how about a 12-8.

Dan Snyder
RKS #5537
SHAG #010

Dan...and everyone else:
The handle material is large enough for a #12-8", #12-9" or a #12-9", #14 grind. It would also work well on a huge hunting knife, i.e. a Model #19-5" or the like...
Best, Capt. Chris

That's a beautiful 12-8 Capt.

How's the balance? I would imagine the brass crows beak BC might balance out that big blade quite well. From my very limited experience I find some of the stabilized woods like redwood and buckeye burl are not real heavy say when compared to ironwood or micarta. Any thoughts? Looks like the ringed gidgee might be a heavy wood.

This ringed gidgee is on the heavy side...true.
Best, Capt. Chris
PS: The #12-8" with a brass end is the bomb ticket...weight-wise!...CCS

I think a #12-8"
or a #12-9" Sportsman's Bowie would be great for this build ...
with a single hilt ... A GREAT CAMP KNIFE!!!
After all, this IS the Outdoor Forum!

Considering the special wood with this build my suggestions are for a big bowie knife, either a Model 12-8 or a Model 12-9, #14 grind. The Model 12-11 Smithsonian Bowie would be killer as well but the sheer size of that baby kind-of prevents sheathing and carrying it anywhere even if just for show.

I think brass hardware complements the color of this wood better than NS. If a Model 12-8 is selected I think a FCH is a must and although not my preference, a Model 12-9, #14 grind might be interesting with a single hilt but I think that would use an option whereas, (correct me if I am wrong Capt. ) a brass standard double hilt or FCH on either the 12-8 or 12-9 does not use up an option.

I think a single finger grip on either a 12-8 or 12-9 would look fantastic with this wood as would full finger grips. The Model #22 handle with the crows beak BC should be considered as well.


Just food for thought.

This should be a great build.

Thanks for the opportunity Captain Chris.