Phill Hartsfield became a full-time knifemaker in 1977. He passed away in 2010. Phill typically used high speed tool steel for his blades - typically A2 or 01. During tempering the steel would be stress relieved three times to bring it to the ultimate in strength. The steel would be differentially edge hardened to RC 60-61 on the Rockwell scale with the remainder of the blade hardened to RC 58-59 on the scale, to allow for flex during cutting. The majority of Phill's knives were designed as tools, with little to no embellishments. So, since his blades were designed for use, not display, nothing was mirror polished, rather his blades were bead blasted to produce a more scratch resistant, non-reflective satin finish. Each handle is shaped in harmony with the hand, no matter how you hold it, it aways fits. And all his designs were full tang.
This is nicely matched set of two (2) of Phill's knives - a Hunter and a Utility knife. Both knives are of full-tang construction, with blades of an unknown tool steel that are 0.1875" thick. The handles appear to be Canvas Micarta with large file-worked pins. Included with each knife is a leather pouch-type sheath. The hunter has a belt loop; the utility does not. Both of these knives have been used and sharpened. The blades have sharpening marks, patina and carbon spots. The handle material has also darkened and developed a patina from handling and age. These are "users". The leather sheaths show some age, but are in very good condition - no rips, tears, cuts, etc. A great couple of knives from one of the best!
Condition: Previously owned. Used, sharpened and carried.
