Figured I’d start a thread on a one-off custom knife I’ve ordered detailing the process and ordering experience. I’ll be posting updates on the progress of the knife as I get them, with the intention to turn the posts in this thread into a semi-coherent article once it’s finished. Word of caution to those with shorter attention spans, the following is word-heavy. With that said, let’s begin...

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Mestiso (adjective): Filipino word roughly translating to “mongrel”, “crossbreed”.

- Background;

I’ve been a diehard Karambit fan for many years now, having been absolutely obsessed with the fierce claw-like fighting knife ever since I first laid eyes on one in a YouTube video discussing the history and use of the distinctive weapon in Filipino Martial Arts (FMA).


A traditional Karambit design, made by Traditional Filipino Weapons

In the prevailing years since my personal collection of various traditional and non-traditional folding and fixed-blade ring-handled knives has expanded to include over a dozen examples, including production pieces from Fox Knives Italy, CRKT, Cold Steel, Ontario Knife Company, Emerson Knives, and more. A folding Karambit of one type or another has been my EDC pocket companion as a dedicated defensive knife for years now, and my love of the design grows stronger with each passing day.

In recent years however spurred on by the efforts of well known edged weapon practitioners such as Craig Douglas, Ed Calderon, and others, another distinctive combative blade type with roots in the Filipino art of Kali has enjoyed explosive growth in popularity - That of the Pikal knife. Similar to the beloved Karambit, traditional Pikal knives are purpose-driven, no-nonsense “Get off me or get sliced” blades, identified primarily by the somewhat unorthodox construction of a primary edge intended to be utilized with reverse-grip-edge-in (RGEI) methodology and tactics.


ShivWorks Clinch Pick (and trainer) designed by Craig Douglas, one of the most popular production Pikal knives currently available on the market

In much the same path that I took with my discovery of the Karambit blade design, I’ve spent the last few years reading and researching this peculiar type of blade; combing through every blog post, forum thread, YouTube video, and magazine article that I could find on the subject. The straight-forward utilization and devastating potential of Pikal RGEI methodology was undeniably alluring, and started me on the path to the resulting custom blade that is the subject of this text.

It was one lazy weekday night a while back that I was reading through a review article on the ubiquitous ShivWorks Clinch Pick (for what must have been the tenth time), absent-mindedly flicking my Fox Knives DART XT trainer open and closed when an idea struck; What if someone designed a knife that combines everything I love about the ring-handled Karambit with the deceptively simple and gruesomely effective RGEI methodology of the reverse-edge Pikal? I fired up the Google machine and began scouring the internet for various offerings of Karambit/Pikal hybrid blades. While I was able to find a few examples of the general concept - ergonomically designed ring-handled blades with the sharpened portion of the piece on the reverse edge for use with decidedly Pikal-like intended utilization - I just didn’t find any that truly grabbed my attention or inspired my hand to reach for my wallet. It wasn’t until later on that I began to entertain the notion that if I was going to acquire a blade with the features and profile that I wanted, I was going to have to find a custom knife maker who could create a design from scratch. Enter Ironside Edgeworks.

- Gavin Coleman and Ironside Edgeworks;

https://ironsideedgeworks.com/

I first inadvertently stumbled across Gavin’s work while perusing the myriad posts filed under the Pikal hashtag of Instagram. A bladesmith based in South Africa, Gavin has only been making knives under the Ironside Edgeworks moniker for a scant few years. In that relatively short timeframe though he has established himself as one of the true standouts in the upper echelons of combative knife producers. Specializing in readily EDC-able Pikal-style combative fixed blades, his portfolio of work quickly distinguishes itself from the litany of “me too” reverse-edge blade makers in displaying an innate understanding of the mechanics and engineering necessary to elevate his designs beyond that of a simple hardened and sharpened slab of steel and into the realm of masterfully executed tools of self-preservation.


Ironside Edgeworks Sin Eater, one of Gavin’s staple Pikal-style blades

The truly breathtaking examples of Gavin’s talent and dedication to his craft materialize in the form of his Masterworks series of knives, a collection of limited-run pieces that consist of exotic materials, one-off inspirations, and high-end versions of his base design portfolio finished with a combination of traditional Japanese Tsukamaki handle wraps and carbon fiber fixtures that result in knives that are as visually stunning as they are deadly effective.


Ironside Edgeworks Masterworks Requiem, one of Gavin’s high-end limited edition blades

I began researching Gavin’s work and could not find a single customer that was at all displeased with his knives. Even more intriguing, I learned that Gavin had been contracted to create a custom piece by none other than Craig Douglas himself. With this realization I came to the firm conclusion that I had found the best bladesmith to craft my Karambit/Pikal hybrid concept - After all, any maker who has the reputation and clout to make a blade for SouthNarc is more than qualified to produce a knife for a mere mortal such as myself.

- The Karambit-Pikal Hybrid Concept;

The knife that I had been meticulously constructing in my mind for some time would be to a casual observer an odd amalgamation of features, the resulting combination of which had exactly one purpose; to be the most broadly capable combative self-defense knife I’d ever own. The handle was to be distinctly that of a Karambit - ergonomically curved to fill the palm, with a finger ring that would serve to index the blade in the hand upon drawing it from the sheath as well as to aid in retention of the knife during use, and lastly as a blunt-impact surface. This would be grafted to a relatively short (approximately 3.5”) modified Persian-dagger style double-edged blade. The double-edged nature of the blade shape would allow the knife to be utilized simultaneously with reverse-grip-edge-out as well as reverse-grip-edge-in methodology and tactics. My theory (which will be tested and vetted through training with an accompanying dull trainer blade) was that the distance of engagement would dictate which edge and tactics would be emphasized at any given time. At arm’s-length distance (what many would consider traditional “knife dueling” range), the outside edge and Karambit-style techniques would be emphasized, utilizing slashing and stabbing as well as creating the protective “fence” around the user with an edge always between you and your attacker. As distance closes between the user and attacker to grappling range (“the clinch”, as those familiar with Craig Douglas’ curriculum will recognize), emphasis would shift to the reverse edge and Pikal-style tactics - Jabbing and shearing. It should be noted that while this philosophy of use could extend to just about any small double-edged blade, the intended profile and features of my conceptual design would lend itself particularly well to this style of use.

- The Mestiso;

I contacted Gavin through his Ironside Edgeworks Instagram page and asked if he would be interested in working on the hybridized blade concept. Gavin had previously commented publicly on one of his other Instagram posts that he dislikes ring-handled knives for his own personal use, so I had an inkling of apprehension that he might dismiss my request as I sent my first message. Much to my pleasant surprise, he promptly replied to my correspondence and accepted the opportunity to work on the project without hesitation. I sent him a description of the general concept that I was seeking, with a few exacting specifications regarding necessary features and overall dimensions of the knife I had in mind, then encouraged him to run with the parameters and create his own artistic interpretation. A short time later he sent an initial concept sketch, to which I replied with a few requests for tweaks and changes. Within a few days he had a second sketch in my inbox, and it was at this moment that I knew my bank account would shortly be relieved of whatever sum was requested - The design could not have looked more like the concept I had been picturing had someone plugged my imagination into a printer.


Final approved concept sketch for the Mestiso

With the overall design approved and the deposit made, I set about anxiously awaiting the extremely reasonable two month estimated lead time for my truly one-off custom Ironside Edgeworks blade.

I’ve been told the next step will be a mock-up to make sure the ergonomics and proportions are correct. More to come...

Nice design but not legal to carry in many venues.  That's party of the beauty of SouthNarcs Clinch Pick, while double edged would be nice and optimum for use, that's often not legal to carry.  He also had to take into consideration the length restrictions which many places have as well.

All fair points, but since it’s a true custom one-off blade made for my purposes it’s specced to be legal to carry in my area of residence - Which means double-edged, 3.5” blade length, and fixed blade are all good to go

Still waiting on Gavin to get to my blade in his queue, sounds like some administrative delays got him a bit backed up over the last few weeks. Should have more to post here soon though!

While I wait on the Ironside Edgeworks interpretation of this design, I’ve reached out to a few other custom bladesmiths who have experience with both Karambit and Pikal designs and asked if they’d be interested in making their own versions of the concept as well - The response has been overwhelmingly positive. I’m beginning to think that Gavin’s blade will be the first in a series of different makers takes on the hybridized Karambit/Pikal combative knife concept dubbed the Mestiso...I’m getting very excited about the possibilities

I have a Diavel from him. He is an outstanding knife maker and his customer service is outstanding. I'm not a fan of rings on knives either, but I like that designs. One of the few edge in orientations I've seen on ringed knife. I believe the karambit is Indonesian in origin (used in Silat), though it has definitely found its way into FMA.

His designs are downright beautiful in addition to being deadly effective, particularly his Masterworks series which the Mestiso will be one of. He took to and understood the concept of what I was wanting instantly and I have every confidence the finished blade will be the best daily-carried defensive knife I’ll ever own

It will be an heirloom piece. He's a Combatives guy, he gets it, so blades are purpose built. All hand finished. Fit and finish are outstanding. Please report back when you receive it. The ring on a design like that makes a certain amount of sense. Can't wait to pick your brain.

I’ll be posting updates in this thread as I get them, and thoroughly reviewing the blade and trainer once I have them in hand. Keep an eye here, there will be plenty of content and I’ll gladly answer any and all questions

In for the updates!

Got an update from Gavin on this project. He’s close to finished work on the live blade, just working on the sheath. The duplicate trainer is after that. I’ve requested pics of progress, will post them as soon as he sends them!

That's awesome. I can't wait to see pics

I’m speechless;



This is the live blade version, Gavin sent the pictures late last night. It looks even better than I expected and I can’t wait to get my hands on it!





The handle is made with carbon fiber fittings on either end of black rayskin samigawa and black resin-coated silk ito wrapping, with copper liners

Forgot to mention - The blade itself is Bohler K460 high carbon steel, which is Gavin’s standard. He also offers models made with Elmax steel and is starting to work in some more exotic metals like Hitachi Blue Paper steel and titanium

That thing looks awesome!

Absolutely agreed, Gavin did a phenomenal job integrating all the features and materials together in a fantastically elegant blade. I’m just as excited to see the trainer as well. While it won’t include some of the more exotic/expensive materials like carbon fiber or copper liners, it will have the same overall profile using G10 fittings and will also have a resin-saturated wrapped silk ito to closely duplicate the overall feel of the handle on the live blade. I’ve seen other examples of his live/trainer blade combination sets, and the amount of craftsmanship and attention to detail that he puts into the live blade is readily apparent in the trainers as well

Heard from Gavin, evidently he’s been seeing an increase in traffic to his website that he’s been able to trace back to this thread on the forums that I’ve posted it to. If anyone’s considering purchasing a blade from him, I highly recommend it - It will absolutely be money well spent!

He also said he’s wrapping up work on the trainer and will have the pair of blades ready to ship out this week! As soon as I get my hands on them, the real fun and lots of content will be added to this thread. Exciting things happening soon!

Ah the joys of international shipping...Should be getting the finished set of blades sometime in the next few weeks!

A bit of a teaser from Gavin late last night while I wait in shipping limbo. While the trainer intentionally lacks some of the more exotic/expensive materials of the live blade, the attention to detail and craftsmanship is definitely still there! Can’t wait to get my hands on this beautiful pair!

A quick note for anyone who has noticed the shipping timeframe - I want to emphasize that the delay in shipping is NOT within Gavin’s control. Unfortunately it’s just one of the realities of working with an international maker, particularly apparently one working in South Africa. It’s been a bit frustrating, but since it’s out of his hands and sounds like he’s doing his best to utilize the most efficient method available to him, I can’t let it reflect on his part of the process. So far it’s been the only remotely negative aspect of working with him, but patience is a virtue and to paraphrase an old saying, fantastic knives come to those who wait

While I wait on shipping, I’ve been gathering a few different options to try for attachment/mounting of the sheaths. Both the live and trainer blades are each provided with a designated sheath from Gavin including a clip, but I’m also going to do some experimenting with soft loop and static cord methods to figure out what method/location works best when combined with all the other shit I have on my belt line...

A surprise package showed up today!











To say I’m overjoyed would be a massive understatement. These pieces are absolutely flawless and the most ergonomic knives I’ve ever had in my hands. Now is when the real fun in this thread can begin. I’m ecstatic!

Size comparison to the knife it’s intended to replace, the Fox DART. It feels much more substantial in the hand with a reassuring heft, without being unwieldy. I do much prefer the broader finger ring on the Mestiso, with any pressure on the index finger much more broadly dispersed than the slim metal ring on the DART and most of my other ring-handled blades

https://www.instagram.com/p/B92T_u2phtF/?igshid=1h486jg4yahzn

Getting acquainted with the balance and feel of the knife using the trainer. Fair warning, I’m not a trick flipper or anything like that - What you see is all the “tricks” I know how to do

Gavin posted pictures of the completed set to his IG page, and it sounds like the response he’s been getting has been so overwhelmingly positive he’s considering putting the Mestiso into regular production!

https://www.instagram.com/p/B941cBeJqmJ/?igshid=1pmqshpgewctv

The trainer is such a close duplicate to the live blade that the live blade snaps into the trainer sheath like it was made for it. The precision Gavin has been able to achieve with his hands approaches that of pieces cut and made by machines. Absolutely astonishing

https://www.instagram.com/p/B995LHepH79/?igshid=1wnxqxokiemmo

Demonstrating a solution to a known issue with traditional Pikal-style blades - Range. Most edge-in techniques (reverse or forward grip) don’t allow the user to extend the point or edge of a Pikal knife very far for medium- or long-range use. Not much of a problem when fighting from “the clinch”, but if there’s a way to avoid getting into that position to begin with it would obviously be preferable. Utilizing the double-edged form of the Mestiso, the in-line tip, and manipulations specifically made possible by the inclusion of the finger ring, the useable range of the knife can be extended nearly the full length of the knife itself and allows for your defense to (potentially) begin that much earlier in a confrontation;

Experimenting with different carry methods and locations. Based on initial impressions carrying on the belt at a downward 45-degree angle at the hip may in fact work even with my AIWB holster, and certainly provides better access than clipped in the pocket

I believe I’ve settled on this carry position. It conceals well enough, is perfectly comfortable to sit and move (the sheath just swivels up out of the way of my leg), and provides the best access to the ring of the knife. It’s a very natural draw and my index finger can be placed through the ring very inconspicuously if I feel the need to pre-load the draw;

While preparing a pork roast for dinner this evening I took the opportunity and did a bit of organic medium testing with the Mestiso. Unfortunately no video this time as it’s difficult to hold the knife, keep the meat still, and hold a camera - but here’s the aftermath. After stabbing, slashing, poking, and slicing, the best way I can describe the way this blade cuts meat is effortlessly devastating. Both edges zipped through the pork with little to no resistance whatsoever;

Well, it was bound to happen at some point - I’m in talks with Gavin about getting a second smaller companion blade for the Mestiso. Currently discussing two different possibilities, and Gavin is coming up with sketches for each to get a visual representation to pick which one to go with. Either way it will have the same Tsukamaki handle wrap with carbon fiber fittings and copper liners to aesthetically match the Mestiso. Another masterfully crafted Ironside Edgeworks blade will be mine soon!

Nice. Sorta jelly. How much it run you?

Factoring in that it was a one-off design that wasn’t already in the maker’s portfolio, the exotic materials and intricate handle work, and the duplicate trainer, a little less than $700 for the set including kydex sheaths. Not cheap, but very much worth it to me to get the knife (and trainer) that I’ve wanted for years. Gavin does offer several models that are much more affordable if you don’t opt for the fancier handle work, but I wanted the blade to be that much more special and the custom knife world is certainly an arena where “you get what you pay for” is an accurate rule of thumb

I've had a few customs made in that price range.  No, that price doesn't make them "better" with regards to basic function and you could likely find something functional at a fraction of the cost.  HOWEVER, if you're looking for something unique, artistic, ergonomic, excellent fit/finish, custom detailing and features and as much art as defensive tool...and you're willing to pay for it...it's definitely worth the investment.  If you fear losing or using a blade this expensive, they're not for you.  I've found a good custom knife is meant to be used and trained with and I've only sent one back for a handle rewrap and blade sharpening a long time ago.  

They're aren't simply a defensive knife or tool, they're a piece of personally-deigned art and you'll pay a little more for that kind of detail and custom work as with anything else.

ROCK6

That’s exactly how I felt about it when I ordered it. Yes, I wanted a knife - But I also wanted something special akin to functional art, and that’s what I knew I was getting from Gavin. As nice as it is it’s definitely no safe queen, I’ve carried it every day since I got it. I’m more than willing to pay more for the items and tools that I’m going to carry and use on a daily basis, and especially those tools that I’m carrying with the possibility of betting my life on.



The knife joins my EDC pistol that has been upgraded (not modified - each component added or replaced represents a quantifiable performance enhancement) to the tune of about $2k, and if I never actually have to employ either for their intended purpose, I’ll be more than happy just enjoying the quality and potential capabilities of each for the duration of my lifetime. To me personally, every penny spent has been worth it

After further discussion with Gavin I think we’ve settled on the second companion blade also being something of a one-off custom, or at least another design not currently offered in his catalog. It will either be a slightly modified version of one of his current designs, or another completely new design. More functional artwork is coming soon

Looking forward to it!  It's functional art and "man jewelry" that is more for performance than public show...but they look damn good and almost sexy in Instagram and forum pics

ROCK6