The Von Gruff JT Ranger Knife

[Red Leg]

A few weeks ago I entered into a collaboration with our resident Kiwi Knifemaker to create an "African" knife which would incorporate a specific set of priorities. I had a specific length and requirements which drove the blade design. Using his vast experience, Gary incorporated those thoughts into a minimalist design, that is in the hand perfect. Everything about a knife that may be used for something other than cutting rope or potatoes is captured in its balance and heft. I am confident that this one could not be improved upon. He also created a minimalist sheath which carries the knife in what I consider the perfect location - weak-side/butt forward. There it is always available and never prodding you in the back or butt when in a vehicle.

Simply great work my friend. It will be with me every day in South Africa in June and hopefully for many years to come.

JT Ranger Knives by Von Gruff

• Red Leg
• Feb 27, 2018
• 3

 

[billc]

That looks like a good hunting knife. Have a close up picture of it to see more details.

 

[Von Gruff]

Thanks Joe. I really enjoyed working through the list of needs, coming up with a design that fulfills that need, and feel priveledged to have done so.

 

[Royal27]

That looks like a good hunting knife. Have a close up picture of it to see more details.

I do.

Mine arrived yesterday!

 

[billc]

very nice and I like the way the sheath works.

 

[Royal27]

very nice and I like the way the sheath works.

I've never used a cross draw sheath and decided to get it only because @Red Leg said he liked them, so I figured I'd try it.

Within 5 minutes I loved it. Easy to access and easy to put back up.

 

[geoff rath]

I had a look (knifeoholic, me) and found myself saying. "That is a perfect working knife". The words just slipped out. Fair summary?

 

[Red Leg]

I had a look (knifeoholic, me) and found myself saying. "That is a perfect working knife". The words just slipped out. Fair summary?

Yes - but with a caveat. It's primary design was to be of ideal configuration to be a last line of defense against an angry cat or hostile local. I have not had the pleasure of having to try and actually peel a leopard off of myself, but have had three opportunities where I could have. I have twice been in uncomfortable situations with drunk locals in remote towns while picking up supplies. A bit of blade isn't a handgun, but it can deescalate or conclude a situation much quicker than a pair of fists where the former is not an option. The blade is ideally configured for that purpose, with directed penetration more important than a slash. Secondly, it will do all those other things for which we own knives in the first place to include cut a potato or a rope. But it's balance, heft, central thrust line, and simplicity are perfect for it's primary mission.

I should add that I own several Randalls and other custom knives, but this is the first that has it exactly right in exactly the right configuration. At least for me.

 

[Bullthrower338]

What an excellent design gentleman!

 

[cpr0312]

Very nice, looks great!

 

[CAustin]

@Royal27 what is the handle made of!

 

[lwaters]

Is there anything special you have to do to bring a knife into RSA?

 

[Royal27]

@Royal27 what is the handle made of!

Buffalo horn

 

[CAustin]

Buffalo horn

I thought so. Beautiful knife.

 

[AustinL]

That is a great looking blade for sure. I find myself saying man I need one

 

[geoff rath]

Bringing a knife into RSA ; when I went over, I took a few as gifts/gimmes for those on the PH's crew; just declared them on the forms you fill out. Should not be a problem.

 

[geoff rath]

To continue my earlier post: what better work could a knife do than defending one's loved ones or oneself?

 

[sierraone]

Bringing a knife into RSA ; when I went over, I took a few as gifts/gimmes for those on the PH's crew; just declared them on the forms you fill out. Should not be a problem.

I just had mine in my checked bag, 4 for gifts and my own hunting knife.

 

[geoff rath]

They know why we go to Africa; a knife is almost part of the formal dress code.

 

[Bullthrower338]

The only reason I carry a knife to Africa is to open my snuff can and shadowy areas because I can’t carry my 1911.