So excited!

I just wanted to share something I’ve been waiting on for a bit, and today it all came together: my vintage 1995 Blackjack A.W.A.C. fixed-blade knife, one of 1,000 made.

It features a roughly 6-inch drop-point blade, a black paper micarta-style handle, and a double guard. In 1995, Blackjack was still making knives in Effingham, Illinois, putting this one right in the era when Blackjack knives were still awesome.

I originally purchased it with its factory black leather sheath, which was in good condition but impractical for carry. I was also a little disappointed because the factory edge on this knife, while still sharp after all these years, was not really that impressive and, if I’m being honest, a little inconsistent.

So I decided to enlist the help of John from Arizona’s HAWG Holsters to fabricate a custom Kydex sheath for me, and it came out amazing. The inside-the-waistband clip he uses is phenomenal, and the fit and finish are absolutely perfect. John has done several custom sheaths for a lot of my high-end fixed-blade knives, and they are always absolutely amazing. This was no exception.

I also reached out to Sergio from Penchetta Pen & Knife in Phoenix, Arizona, to have him put a wicked-sharp edge on it. We settled on a 20-degree mirror-polished bevel, and it is terrifyingly sharp.

I can’t wait for my next project and would love some advice on what I should get next. I’m really into ’80s and ’90s combat fixed blades and would be happy to hear some suggestions.

I’ve included the information for the two companies I mentioned below in case anybody out there is in need of the same services. I don’t usually post recommendations, but I believe in these companies wholeheartedly and have no problem recommending them to anybody.

HAWG Holsters

www.hawgholsters.com

10632 N. Scottsdale Road #711

Scottsdale, AZ 85254

614.302.5402

Penchetta Pen & Knife

penchetta.com

5555 E Bell Rd, Suite 10

Scottsdale, AZ 85254

United States

+1 (480) 575-0729