“Later, being into knife collecting, I found that most knives could be improved in terms of ergonomics, beauty and size.”
One of the most important tools for a hunter is his knife. There is a huge market for all kinds of knives, so it’s not easy to make the right choice. Those only looking for the “tool”, are often happy with a simple and cheap blade with a plastic handle. Others want better materials for blade and grip. Simple, modern or classic, that’s the question.
And finally there are some people who want create a knife of their own. One of them is Nicolas Fetting, a German hunter and aficionado who lives in Andalusia, Spain. I saw some of his knives on Instagram and I liked their classic design at first sight.
The story of Nicolas Fetting
“Is there a greater pleasure and satisfaction than creating objects of use with your hands, that will bring joy for a lifetime and last generations? Since my childhood I have been enjoying time in the field and woods, living surrounded by nature and a knife was a self-evident handy tool.
Later, being into knife collecting, I found that most knives could be improved in terms of ergonomics, beauty and size.I started to make my own knives some 5 years ago and still try to improve every single knife I make.
All my knives are done in a very small workshop with nearly no electric tools. Files, loads of sandpaper and patience are used to create each knife, completed just by a drill press and the band sander of a friend to create the first rough grind.
I prefer carbon tool steels for my blades, especially the 1.3505 / 52100 a ball bearing steel that will hold a long-lasting edge that is easily restored on a leather strop or fine stone. These steels can rust when not properly cared for and will stain in contact with fruit, blood or other acids, but this patina that will grow over the time will create a unique character.
I make four models:
The “Herrenmesser”, a gents knife with a small, light blade, very ergonomic handle of buffalo or Turkish walnut,a knife for everyday, dining, desk or small game.
The “Wanderer”, a blade of about 85-90mm for outdoor activities, small game hunting and hiking.
For the hunter the “Jäger” with 11 – 12cm blade, clip point or drop point.
All handle materials are natural materials, as sambar stag, wood, leather, buffalo horn, mammoth ivory, unlimited options in spacer themes. The hunters with a cartridge of the favoured calibre in the pommel.
My biggest knife is a so called “Hirschfänger” or “Saufänger” for giving the “Coup de Grace” to stag or wild boar.
Every knife is unique, the result of many hours of handcraft, natural materials and the endeavour to improve.”
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