Ray Simonson Custom Hand-Forged Tapered Tang Bushcraft Knife with Brass Inlet Handle and Stamped Leather Sheath

This exceptional, hand-forged bushcraft knife is a masterclass in functional outdoor craftsmanship by custom knifemaker Ray Simonson of Wild Boar Blades. Designed for rigorous outdoor application, the knife features a robust, hand-forged 5-inch blade with a subtle forged finish along the spine that transitions into a clean, razor-sharp primary grind.

The handle is constructed with a comfortable, ergonomic contour out of rich hardwood, secured with dual brass pins and detailed with a classic brass inlet accent. Engineered with a tapered tang, the knife offers optimized balance, reducing fatigue in the hand during extended bushcraft tasks. It is accompanied by a heavy-duty, custom hand-tooled and stamped leather sheath that holds the blade securely. Whether utilized for wilderness survival, feather-sticking, carving, or general camp chores, this piece bridges artisan aesthetics with rugged utility.

History & Maker Background

• Maker: Ray Simonson

• Brand/Shop: Wild Boar Blades (originally established in Toutle, Washington in 1995 as Kopromed USA before rebranding to Wild Boar Blades in 1998).

• Heritage: Ray Simonson built an established reputation within the custom and vintage knife community, known both for curating high-grade international blades (from Poland, Germany, and South Africa) and for forging his own distinct custom fixed-blades and leather sheaths. His custom work—particularly his field and bushcraft knives—is prized by outdoor traditionalists, collectors, and woodsmen for its durability and hand-crafted character.

Dimensions

• Blade Length: 5.0 inches

• Estimated Overall Length: 9.5 to 10.0 inches (standard for a 5-inch utility/bushcraft format)

• Blade Style: Drop-point / Bushcraft utility with forged flats

• Tang: Tapered full tang

• Handle Materials: Hardwood with brass pins and decorative brass inlet

• Sheath: Custom hand-stamped wet-molded leather belt sheath