Ever since we began stocking Julius Pettersson’s hand-forged knife blades, craftsmen and women the world over have been sending in photos of the superb finished knives they’ve made using these carbon steel blanks. From the more traditional reindeer antler, right through to reclaimed bowling balls, we’ve seen an incredible variety of materials being used to make an equally wide range of handle styles. Shown here are just a few of the more recent submissions:

James Vann

“As a forester, I often come across pieces of timber that are too good to go to waste. The handle here is made from an oak burr that was on a tree I felled in Lamberhurst, and I added a brass bolster and lanyard tube as I thought the colours would match nicely. After a lot of filing and sanding, I got it to fit in my hand comfortably. I then decided I would try to make a sheath, as I thought it would be another fun project… Little did I know leather working is very time consuming! After a couple of late nights, it was finally finished and I’m glad I made it myself. It was a pleasure, and probably wont be the last one I’ll make. I have also filed down a section of the back of the blade so it works with a firesteel now.” – James Vann

Michael Joubert

“I live in the U.S. now, but was born and raised in South Africa and spent many years in the bush. I chose African Blackwood, sectioned it into four blocks and hand fitted each to the tang for a perfect fit. The blade ears are inserted approximately 5-6 mm into the first block for strength, as well as using industrial epoxy to seal all parts for life. I left the handle a little oversized due to my right hand being injured some years ago, and so the size helps with hand fatigue and control.” – Michael Joubert

Gary Green

“The handle was made from an olive wood pestle I got from a charity shop. Recycling in action.” – Gary Green

Piers & Jess Woodley

“Piers and I bought a few Julius Pettersson knife blanks from you. With a lot of very rewarding time and effort we have been able to make them into our own. My husband and I finished this blade off with antler, leather and Australian jarrah; a little piece of home.” – Piers & Jess Woodley

Elisabeth Anderson

“I set about making my own handle and used some antler sections and a block of curly birch. It’s the first knife I’ve made, so I took it slowly and had some expert help, but I’m really pleased with the result and it works perfectly for me. At the moment I’m making a Sami-style sheath for it and I’m looking forward to using it for years to come!” – Elisabeth Anderson

The Julius Pettersson Hand-Forged Knife Blade

Have you made your own handle for the Julius Pettersson knife blade? If so, send us a photo and we may include your knife in our blog post.