Check this out...my first collab, and done with none other than our very own CKE.
What got this project going was the fact that there was a particular knife that Craig did that had reminded me very much of one of my old FB designs I had done. I found my old protoplastic that I had built of my design and sent the image to Craig. Apparently, Craig and I shared enough in terms of concepts for the future Knifeguild master to say, "Eh, let's do a collab, eh?!!" :D One thing led to another and here is the end result:The CKE/CLB WHARNING FB.
I will not go into too much detail regarding exact stats, but let me just say the the OAL is 7 1/8". Cutting edge is 3 1/2". Blade thickness is just a hair over 1/8". Handle is beautifully done with scales made of contoured Tan G10, making the WHARNING have a grip of about 3/8" thick. Steel used on the WHARNING is heat treated 440C...a great working steel. Blade grind is Saber for tip strength.
Craig's Kydex sheaths are outstanding, and this one came with a large adjustable Tek-Lok by Blade-Tech. His sheath work was always "good" anyway, with rivets placed logically about his Kydex rigs.
This design shares some of the origin of the SUBCOM FB in that it provides a small enough handle to get a good grip on while keeping it's profile low. If this was to be worn in necker mode, it would carry very well, as the handle is flat enough not to print and there is enough grip to draw the knife even if it were to flip under my t-shirt...at least for me anyway. :p
Spine shape shows some of my Lava concept from the mid 90's. That somewhat "pointy spine" acts as a thumb/index ramp for precision steering. For all of you into the "Immortal Arts" like our Dr.Snubnose, the same ramp acts as a great trapper of sorts when held in the reverse grip...imagine a praying mantis clutching onto "something". Some may want this ramp to be placed further towards the tip by about another 1/2" or so, but no biggee. Craig can accomodate. Balance is good, easily going from forward to reverse grip...I just love G10.
Craig not only supplied all the hard work, but also his concepts in terms of fine ergonomics within the CKE/CLB WHARNING. Craig's CKE Custom's are earning a fast reputation of great workmanship, fine attention to detail, quality materials, excellent sheaths, and his prices are just as great as his knives...(Thank God!).
AFAIK, there are only two or three of these in existance. I am sure another, or the only other owner will chime in and share their thoughts on the CKE/CLB WHARNING Collab. However...
In closing, what else can I say? I mean, CKE Custom quality, it is a Wharncliffe :) , Kydex sheath with adjustable large Tek-Lok, Tan G10 scales...made by a future force to be reckoned with and recognized within the custom knifemaking field. I tell you, it has been an absolute honor to work with Craig on this one!
Craig, knifebro, CEO of CKE Customs...Mahalo MUCH. Er...sorry for the cruddy pics, I took them in the parking lot of **** before the rain came.
God bless and thanks for checking this out everyone. :cool: :cool:
