I've made this knife to field test on upcoming javelina hunt in Arizona. Knife stated out as a 5/16" thick bar of D2 tool steel, and was eventually worked down to 0.090" thick blade (at the base) flexible enough to do a good job of boning-out game as well as filleting fish. It should be equally useful in camp as well. Mirror polished D2 with Rockwell hardness of 59C. Handle is made of mule deer, zircote, maple veneer, and zebrawood accent stripe. Those hamsters with tusks better watch out!!!
(http://i595.photobucket.com/albums/tt31/mokamura_photo/020-1.jpg) (http://i595.photobucket.com/albums/tt31/mokamura_photo/026.jpg)
Nice composite handle build up. That D 2 blade should serve well.
Really great looking knife, Mike! I love your recent work with those integral hilt/tang knives, which you already knew, of course. This one is going to be perfect for your javelina hunt. D-2 is a wonderful knife steel when properly done, as you are fully capable of doing. Thanks for sharing.
Allan