There is much online about one of America's pioneer and foremost knife makers, Bill Scagel, so I won't go into his remarkable story. Suffice to say his knives are revered amongst collectors and are highly sought after. He also had a profound influence on the careers of both Bo Randall and R.W. Loveless.
This very very rare 'crooked' or 'canoe' knife is in excellent condition exactly as I purchased it. It came out of a significant collection of Scagel's that was slowly dispersed a number of years ago and included several that at the time made their way into the former collection of principle Scagel collector and historian Dr. Jim Lucie.
This knife measures 8 5/16" in total length on a diagonal from tip to tip and has a remarkable bent staghorn handle with a natural depression for the thumb. The blade length from the tip to the guard is 3 1/2". The original sheath is heavy stitched leather with 3 rivets and a belt loop, and it is custom fitted to step down on both sides to match the knife guard and washer assembly. The blade is in great condition with a flat back side and the kris is clear. There is the usual 'oxidization' and wear on the blade and some fine file marks on the cutting edge. There is a 1" tight hairline to a depth of about 1/8" at the top of the antler (a natural fissure?). I have not in any way attempted to clean or touch up the knife or the sheath. It is 100% as found.
Please contact me directly if you need any more detailed photos. Ted
