Steve Dunn M.S., Stag William Scagel Tribute, Slip-Joint Folding Knife (SOLD)

Steve Dunn, Mastersmith began making knives as a hobby in 1988 and in 1990 enrolled in the basic forging class at the ABS school in Washington, Arkansas where he started forging his own Damascus.  By 1994 he had reached the level of Master Bladesmith in the American Bladesmith Society, and began teaching at the ABS knife-making school.  In 2003 he was selected to serve on the ABS Board of Directors.  All of Steve's knives are sole authorship.  In fact, Steve even does his own engraving.  in April 2002, he attended a basic engraving class at the GRS Engraving School in Emporia, Kansas, and is now an instructor at the GRS Engraving School.  Steve is at the top of his game.  His knives are highly sought after by collectors.  And it doesn't hurt that he is a real gentleman and very approachable.

This gorgeous slip-joint folder was made by Steve as a tribute to William Scagel.  It features two beautifully matched dark amber stag scales, held by 4 hammered pins.  In addition, there are brass liners.  Steve has also placed a hammered arrowhead shield with 2 additional pins on the presentation side of the handle.  Known for his forged blades and Damascus, Steve is now creating some of the most outstanding folding knives we've seen.  His teacher - non other than Bill Ruple.  And his fit and finish, and attention to detail are outstanding.  I believe the blade is CPM154, and the backspring is also stainless steel.  Since Steve has stamped "DUNN" on the ricasso on the presentation side, and his M.S. stamp is nowhere on the knife, the blade is likely not forged.  Steve has also engraved the date "2-8-06" on the blade - the date the knife was completed.  This is one that you can drop in your pocket for EDC or dress.  The blade has a slotted nail nick opening, half-stop, locks up tight with no play whatsoever, and the blade sits centered between the liners when closed.  Being more than 12 years old, there are a couple of very minor spots on the non-presentation side of the blade and backspring.  So minor, non of which could be captured in the pictures.  This one has been with me, all these years.  Comes in a padded, zippered case.

Condition:  Previously owned.