Jordan LaMothe Custom Knife Damascus Parrying Ring Dagger Mastersmith Test Knife

Blade: Damascus forged from 1084 and 15n20 carbon steels Bolster: Hot blued mild steel quillion guard and ring Handle: Fluted East Indian rosewood with twisted silver wire inlay Description: This exquisite Quillion Dagger was created by Forged in Fire winner, Jordan LaMothe. Jordan became a journeyman smith in 2018 and a mastersmith in 2021. Twenty-five year old Jordan works in a coal forge on his family's farm in Hebron, NY. His tremendous attention to detail is matched by his exquisite attention to every detail. Coming back from the Blade Show with mastersmith test knives is one of the great highlights of each year. When a bladesmith tests to become a mastersmith, five knives are made by the applicant that are the height of their work. These knives are judged by ABS Mastersmiths on fit and finish, as well as general artistry. The standards are exacting. The centerpiece of the test set is the Quillion Dagger -- this knife. At Blade Show 2021 Awards, Jordan LaMothe was a big winner. Not only was he honored to join the ranks of master smiths, but he was the only maker to take home two Blade Show awards: Best Fixed Blade and Best in Show. Additionally, he was awarded the BR Hughes Award for the best mastersmith knife to be judged. Clearly, Jordan is making significant waves with his exquisite one-of-a-kind art knives. This Damascus Parrying Ring Dagger is an impressive display of craftsmanship and will certainly be the center of any collection! During the 16th and 17th centuries, European fencing reached the height of popularity. Fencing schools opened up throughout Europe that began training how to fence with two edged weapons instead of a sword and shield. This would not have been possible without the development of the left-handed dagger which played an active role in both offence and defense. The large ring at the hilt of the dagger was used to protect the hand and knuckles when parrying an incoming attack. The 11-1/2 inch blade is forged to shape. The intricate damascus combines 1084 and 15N20 carbon steels. It is hollow ground with a dramatic, sharp center line. Daggers are among the hardest knives to grind -- any flaw in symmetry becomes immediately noticeable. The ricasso is hollow ground for particularly dramatic effect. The hot blued quillion guard is nicely sculpted and culminates in a large ring. LaMothe sculpted the ring to look like a traditional ring one would wear. The "stone" sculpted from steel is a nice touch and is culminated with a fine silver accent. The handle is formed from East Indian rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia) that has been fluted and inlaid with twisted fine silver wire. The sculpted handle feels exceptional and offers excellent grip. The handle is surrounded by hot blued mild steel fittings and front and rear damascus ferrule. Daggers of this caliber are very rare to find, making this a true collector's piece! It is easily among the most impressive knives we have ever been able to offer. Exceptional work throughout!