Forged D2 Steel Jim Bowie Knife with Elk Antler Handle & Leather Sheath

A Bowie knife is a large, fixed-blade hunting knife known for its distinct clip point and strong, versatile design. Originally created in the early 19th century, it combines cutting power with precise control, making it ideal for hunting, camping, and outdoor survival. The blade usually ranges between 8 to 15 inches and features a sturdy guard to protect the user’s hand during heavy use. Modern Bowie knives, like the Jim Bowie Knife by Ansari Forge, are hand-forged from premium steels and often feature antler, bone, or wooden handles — blending beauty with functionality.

The correct pronunciation of Bowie knife is “BOH-ee knife” (rhymes with “snowy”).
Many people mistakenly say “BOO-ee,” but historians and linguists agree that “BOH-ee” reflects the way Jim Bowie himself pronounced his name. So when referring to a Bowie knife, it’s “BOH-ee,” just like the original frontiersman intended.

The Bowie knife was named after Colonel James “Jim” Bowie, a 19th-century American frontiersman, soldier, and folk hero. Jim Bowie became famous after using his large fighting knife in the Sandbar Fight of 1827, a legendary duel that inspired the creation of the knife’s design. After that, blacksmiths began crafting versions of his blade, which evolved into the famous Bowie knife we know today. His legacy and courage—especially during the Battle of the Alamo—turned this blade into an enduring symbol of strength, survival, and craftsmanship.

A traditional Bowie knife typically features a blade length between 8 and 15 inches, with an overall length of 12 to 20 inches depending on the design. The size gives it excellent chopping power while still being balanced enough for precision work. For example, the Jim Bowie Knife by Ansari Forge has a 13-inch blade and an 18-inch overall length, making it perfect for heavy-duty hunting, camping, and display. Its impressive size and weight are part of what makes it one of the best fixed blade hunting knives available.

The original Jim Bowie knife has a mysterious history. After Jim Bowie’s heroic stand and death at the Battle of the Alamo in 1836, his famous knife reportedly disappeared. Some accounts suggest it was taken as a battlefield relic, while others claim it was lost or destroyed during the chaos. Although the real knife’s fate remains unknown, its design lived on — inspiring countless custom Bowie knives and handmade recreations. Modern bladesmiths, like Ansari Forge, continue to honor that legacy with hand-forged Bowie knives that capture the same spirit of power, elegance, and craftsmanship Jim Bowie made legendary.