Hand Forged Damascus Hawkbill Knife – Stag Handle, 512-Layer Twist Pattern, Full Tang Fixed Blade by Ansari Forge

The hawkbill blade's distinctive inward, claw-like curve is a specialized design that excels at tasks where drawing or hooking the material is necessary. Its primary advantage is that the shape pulls the material into the cutting edge, reducing slippage and increasing control.

Sharpening a hawkbill knife is different from a straight-edged blade due to its distinct inward curve (concave edge).¹ Standard flat sharpening stones will not reach the entire cutting edge.²

Tools Required

The key to sharpening a curved blade is using an abrasive surface with a smaller radius than the knife's curve.³

• Abrasive Honing Rods/Stones: Diamond or ceramic rods are the most effective. Look for a rod that can fit into the curve of the blade.

• Specialized Sharpening Systems: Systems like the Spyderco Sharpmaker often have triangular or cornered rods that can reach the concave section.⁴

  Whetstone (Flat Stone): Only useful for the point and heel of the blade, but not for the main curve itself.⁵

   

  Strop: A leather strop is essential for removing the final burr and polishing the edge.⁶

   

Step-by-Step Sharpening Guide (Using a Honing Rod)

1. Preparation and Angle: Inspect your knife to determine the existing edge bevel angle (usually between $15^\circ$ and $20^\circ$ per side). Hold the round sharpening rod securely in your non-dominant hand.

2. Focus on the Curve: Place the rod against the curved part of the blade's edge. This is the only way to get a consistent abrasive surface inside the curve.

3. The Draw Stroke: Slide the knife edge down the rod and away from the handle in a controlled motion, maintaining the consistent bevel angle.⁷ The motion should move the point of contact along the entire length of the curve.

    

    

   Raise a Burr: Repeat the stroke on one side until you have created a slight burr (a tiny, curled-over lip of metal) along the entire opposite side of the cutting edge.⁸ This indicates you have reached the apex of the edge.

    

    

4. Repeat on the Reverse Side: Flip the knife and repeat the process on the other side of the blade until the burr flips back to the first side.⁹

    

    

5. Refine the Edge: Repeat the process with a finer grit rod (if you started with a coarse one) to further sharpen and polish the edge.¹⁰

    

    

6. Stropping: Finish by stropping the blade to remove the burr and create a razor-sharp final edge.¹¹ Use the corner or a mounted surface of a strop to ensure contact with the curve.

    

    

The best way to carry your Damascus fixed blade knife depends on its size, your activity, and whether you need to carry it openly or concealed. Since your knife is a fixed blade with an 8.0-inch overall length, a durable, hand-made cowhide leather sheath is ideal for various carry options.

Common and Recommended Fixed Blade Carry Positions

• 1. Strong-Side Belt Carry (Vertical):

  • Position: Worn on your dominant hip (e.g., at the 3 o'clock position for a right-handed person). The sheath sits outside the waistband (OWB) and vertically.

  • Best For: General outdoor use, camping, and when quick, natural access is needed. The traditional, simple way to carry a fixed blade.

     

• 2. Scout Carry (Horizontal on the Back):

  • Position: Worn horizontally along the small of the back (6 o'clock position). Requires a sheath with loops that can accommodate horizontal belt carry.

  • Best For: Maximum retention and concealment under a jacket or shirt. Ideal for hiking or bushcraft as the knife is tucked out of the way, minimizing snagging on brush.

• 3. Inside the Waistband (IWB) Carry:

  • Position: The sheath is worn inside the pants, secured to the belt with a clip. This is best for smaller fixed blades (like your 3.0-inch blade).

  • Best For: Concealed carry. The smaller hawkbill curve makes IWB carry more comfortable than large blades.

• 4. Drop-Leg or Low-Ride Belt Carry:

  • Position: The sheath is extended lower on the thigh using an attachment or loop, often secured with a thigh strap.

     

  • Best For: Larger knives or when wearing a bulky jacket/backpack hip belt that would obstruct a high-ride belt position. Gives very easy access.

Key Consideration for a Hawkbill: Due to the forward-facing curve, ensure your sheath has excellent retention (like a snug, custom-fit leather sheath) regardless of the carry position. Always practice your draw and re-sheath to ensure safety and quick accessibility.