Knives Books

I travel to and through many different states every week for work. I have carried a pocket knife daily for 35 years. Recently I learned from a co-worker that his pocket knife (3" lock blade) was confiscated by a police officer in Boston, MA. Although it was concealed in his pocket, the officer saw its print and asked him to hand it over. With this fresh reminder of the existence of knife laws, I spent hours reading through whatever I could find (and decipher) from the Internet on my home state and MA. Although I found some of the laws, there was the nagging thought that maybe there was more, or that I was misunderstanding what I was reading. With my intense schedule, it was also an overwhelming thought to dig up the laws of all of the states I travel through on a weekly basis.

As an aid in my pursuit to be a law abiding knife owner, I ordered this book. Within an hour of receiving it I read sections 1-6 (introduction and basic concepts and facts concerning legal knife carry), and the sections on all of the states I travel through weekly.

It was both comforting and disturbing to gain a clear understanding of the wide variety of state laws pertaining to knife carry. Although I came away from that session wondering if I could get in trouble for carrying a simple folding pocket knife in some states, it was empowering to have Mr. Wong's concise assessment of each state's knife carry laws.

Referencing this book before any travel to/through other states is making me a much more educated traveler. Although this knowledge is compelling me to leave the knife home on certain trips (for the first time in my life), it is also reducing my likelihood of getting in trouble with the law. My co-worker lost his knife to a Boston police officer, but he could have gotten jail time because his knife exceeded Boston's 2 ½" blade limit!

Mr. Wong is an attorney who has traveled extensively within the USA. He is doing a wonderful service to law abiding knife carrying travelers to share his knowledge with us through this very reasonably priced book!

I have been carrying a pocket knife for over... well let's just say a very long time. It is becoming increasingly common for states to limit the type of knives we can carry in public. Knife Laws open with a broad discussion of the issue and follows up with a clear, reference style, list of the restrictions of the various states. I found both sections worthwhile.

Knife Laws has made a nice complement to my others books on knife art, value, construction.

If you've ever spent hours frustrated on the Internet searching statutes in an effort to determine the legality in carrying your 4-inch tanto-point pocket folder on your next business trip read this book. If you carry any hunting, fishing, utility or other knife read this book. For the first time (in my experience) here exists a single, easy reference collecting relevant statutes and case law for all fifty states. What an eye opener! The author shares his insight into countless obscure and convoluted laws that can unwittingly land you a in legal morass of hurt. Not just an legal reference he also discusses the enforcement climate of each state as well as factors for selecting a "non-threatening" (i.e. poltically correct) carry knife, interacting with law enforcement, and other practical considerations.

"Knife Laws" provides an essential legal reference and travel companion for lay persons.

This book is well designed and executed. It covers almost the full range of applications: vegetables; fish and shellfish; meat poultry and game; doughs and desserts; and fruit. And it provides plenty of colored photos to illustrate the cuts. It also addresses 'cutting-edge technology': Types of knives and other cutting tools are discussed as well as how to maintain them. There are references for other resources and some useful information on the subject of safety and first aid. But there isn't much on garnish cuts - only a couple of examples. All-in-all it's quite useful: Practical, accessible and attractive enough to grab your attention. It's a fine resource.

This book is mis-named as indicated in the title of this review.

The book talks about all kitchen tools with a sharp edge. That includes knives, scissors, mandolins, graters, garnishing tools, etc. It is broken down into the "best way" to prepare a particular type of food using various tools, not just knives.

Although it was not what I expected, I think there is very good information in this book. The authors offer tips throughout the book on how to get the most out of an item. I would've liked to have seen alternate ways of handling a particular type of food, however it may not have been the safest way to go about it.

This is a good basic book on how to handle kitchen knives and other culinary blades. It covers a lot of ground competently. A little sharpening, a little honing, some carving, plenty of kitchen prep work and even some nice technique. Even the experienced kitchen worker will find a few plums, so to speak. For example, I have cut a thousand string beans, and never look forward to taking the ends off two pounds of them. Use kitchen scissors! Or for you adventure seekers, spatchcocking birds such as poussins and game birds. Something for everybody.
- learn the tools
- learn to keep knives in proper working trim (much more fun to use)
- lots of vegetable preparation
- plenty of fish and shellfish
- most common meats including some organs
- fun with fruit
- a bit of bread and dessert

I was going to take off a star for covering so much ground in only about two hundred pages, but it is actually a good thing to have so much in one little book, especially for newbies. I have a dozen books covering this ground in detail; but this points you in the right direction for specializing later. For example, "The Professional Chef's Knife Kit" is on of that dozen special books, but it is referenced here under "further reading" (sic).

I do object to using the star roster on the cover with NO notable or signature contributions by any of them. I assert this claim because they have each copyrighted bits. Hall copyrighted the hardware section, which comprise the first fifty pages, but without expertise, just photos. Charlie trotter has a couple of fine books which I love and rate more highly, but here is nothing of his own true stamp. It seems things like photos of hands are a big deal, but these are barely instructive and not of the technical utility and brilliance of "La Methode" of Pepin. It all smacks of cashing in rather than doing the hard work of the real workhorse, Dorling Kindersley.

The other reasons it does not loose a second star: the publisher, Dorling Kindersley, has chosen high quality paper and binding. It patiently lays flat before your otherwise engaged hands; and finally, it accomplishes an important goal; this book shows you to do better work faster and more effectively, enabling you to be more ambitious in your cooking.

Well,not really but I was disappointed with the advertising inserts in this year's issue. It detracts from the overall usefulness of the book. The Knives series are reference manuals in my opinion and the semigloss Junglee insert and the "Marketplace" advertisement was a bore.

The B&W photos of the knives are nice as usual and even with a new editor (Joe Kertzman) at the helm the book still seems to retain a lot of Ken Warner's flavor.

This year's articles are interesting though not as much as last years issue. I particulary liked the article by Mastersmith/Wordsmith Ed Fowler. Man, does that guy know how to write about knives. He can make 'em, too! It is nice to see Bernard Levine and Butch Winter back again this year.

The Trends section placement of photos are A1. There are some stunning knives there like Jerry Fisk's damascus bowie and Tom Johanning's survival knife. How do these guys do it? There were many other great knives there. Too many to list, though. Check out the pocketknife section. I would love to own anyone of them. Dan Burke's work is just out of this world as is Richard Rogers.

The factory trends section is very good this year with a nice variety. Some excellent knives there also like the Benchmade Mel Pardue Axis lock and the reemergence of the Marbles knife co. Missing in my opinion is the knife/bargain of the year. The MicroTech LCC design by Greg Lightfoot--an exception tactical knife built like a tank and priced most folks can afford.

The directory gets bigger and bigger each year and I like that. The Knives series books are the first I turn to when I am checking out a new maker. The directory includes a state-by-state listing along with the alphabetical listing, a knife photo index (smart move) and a plethora of other specialist ranging from sheathmakers to engravers and etchers.

Knives 2001 is the number one knife reference book to have this year. Overall I am really pleased with it and each year seems to get a little bit better sans the advertising pitch.

I highly recommend this book. A must for any knife nut! :-)

This outstanding showcase of new 2003 custom blades features a brand new eight page color section to accompany over 1,000 black and white photos and an in-depth history covering knives and their custom designs. From scrimshaw and ancient steels to a directory of knifemakers and suppliers, Knives 2003 comes packed cover to cover with invaluable information, in-depth history and detail.

This book is part of a series of books that has been coming out now for many years. They consist of an article section, a trends in cutlery section (with lots of artfully done photos, and a directory section of the cutlery collectible trade and custom makers, etc. I have the whole run and look at them now and again for reference.

I did not believe anyone could step up and write quite the way Erikson does. Esslemont has done a fantastic job. Jumping straight into Malaz City I believed. This is more of a prequal (SP?) to other Malazan books but with the authors own flavor. I highly recommend this work to ANYONE that reads Eriksons books.

Another interesting Malazan story! This novel takes place in the city of Malaz; the time frame is in the early days of the ascent of the Malazan empire.

This novel is extremely well written, captivating and well paced. Like Erikson, Esslemont has that intangible skill with prose that draws you into the tale, almost making you feel like your right there. I had difficultly putting this book down...it just got better and better.

There is also an excellent map of Malaz City that helps sort out some of the geographic twists and turns that occur in the telling of this tale.

And finally...I find it hard to believe that another writer could pen a Malazan tale as well as the original author, but it has actually happened. This is a wonderful addition to the ongoing story of Erikson's Malazan Empire. Anyone who has enjoyed the previous books will want to read the newest edition of this series. 5 Stars. (more if I could)

R.Nicholson

P.S.

Apparently Erikson and Esslemont are 'co-founders' of the Malazan world, and both have agreed to and welcomed each others contributions.

Night of Knives is the first addition to the Malazan series by Ian C. Esslemont (ICE). The fantasy world featured in the Malazan Book of the Fallen was co-created by ICE and Steven Erikson, who has published 7 full-length novels and 3 novellas set in the world.

I loved Steven Erikson's works and was worried to see the world in the hands of another author. However, ICE did not let me down. Night of Knives features all the epic fantasy storytelling action that I've come to expect in a Malazan novel. He has shown the potential to write a series just as grand and Erikson's.

The story takes place before the action of all the other novels. The story is told mostly through the perspective of two characters: Temper, a retired veteran of many campaigns, and Kiska and young female talent with aspirations for greatness. Many characters from Erikson's works are featured and we get to learn more about there background. Dassem Ultor, Surly, Topper, The Claw, The Talon, Tayschrenn, Kellanved , Dancer, Edgewalker all show up. We also get to meet some new Bridgeburners! The events all unfold over a 24 hr period, the night of the Shadow Moon when it is rumored that Emperor Kellanved and his lieutenant Dancer will return after years of traveling the world. A proposition not everyone is thrilled about.

This book is a must read for any fan of the Malazan Book of the Fallen. Though I recommend not reading this until after completing all of Erikson's current novels. It will spoil some plot points and reveals in Erikson's stories.

This is a nice history of Randall Made Knives. The book gives a time line history of the Randall knife production and an historical perspective. The various models and the history of how they came into being is presented. The story of the development of these knives is excellent and a lot of details are included. A nice set of photographs of the different models and configurations is included along with excellent photographs throughout the book. What is missing is a discription of the knife making process, an explanation of the different sheaths and the meanings of the different markings. There is no discription of the changes in the knives over the years that would help in establishing dates of manufacture, etc. A very informative and enjoyable book for any knife collector. A must for anyone interested in Randall Made Knives.

With the popularity of these handemade knives on the rise, as well as current prices for them, this book will enlighten the collector and enthusist as well.

If you are a collector of Randall Made Knives this book is a necessity.It will give you the history of the company and the models made by Randall.There are pictures of the models and information about each knife.This book will educate the novice collector as well as help a seasoned pro.I recommend this book to all knife enthusist.

If you want to FORGE a knife this is the book for you....If you want to BUILD a knife===>There are others more suited for that

Wayne's first version of this book was the first knifemaking book i purchased. Wayne has guided me and been my mentor and friend from the first (approx 4 yrs ). This latest version is one of the best books a beginner could get. All the fotos and diagrams are in color which greatly helps in understanding the lessons. It has new fotos and diagrams all in color. Although this book has approx same number of pages as the original, it seems to contain 50% more info in it. I would reccommend this book to all knifemakers...beginner and experienced. Definitely a 5 star book.

I own both editions of this book. Wayne is a personal friend, and my mentor in knifemaking. It can be intimidating to read some publications and see all the high-tech machinery that some makers use. This book shows that people can develope their passion for making knives without spending a fortune. It is clear and concise, and takes alot of the guesswork out of being a beginner. Wayne learned knifemaking by trial and error, before there were books, magazines and videos on the subject. This book is a must have in the library of any knifemaker. I read mine constantly for reference and inspiration.

Craig "MADKAT"

I'm a want-to-be bladesmith hungry for information. This book is a great overview for making all types of blades including but not limited to a folder, a basic fixed blade, a sword and a hawk. It shows tools, metals and techniques for making blades using a well thought out format and a beautiful layout. I had to buy it because the library got tired of me borrowing it.

If you are new to knife making and want to make your first knife you are better off buying either the $50 Knife Shop by Wayne Goddard or Custom Knifemaking - 10 Projects from a master craftsman by Tim McCreight (both of which I own) or, if you can get an edition with clear photos How to Make Knives by Richard Barney and Bob Loveless.
If you have some experience you will find some useful tips that may help you.
In 6 of the 7 sections of Blades Guide the editor has assumed a fairly high degree of knowledge, skill and expensive equipment for the projects that it overviews. I say overviews as I do not think a novice could use any of the sections except one (and I will come to that one later) as a manual to successfully complete the projects descibed. The projects are the construction of a tactical folder, the construction of a simple hunting knife, creation of pattern welded damascus, elementary sword smithing, installation of fancy screw fixed bolsters, forging a damascus tomahawk and blade grinding on a belt grinder.
While the sections are well illustrated with colour photos and the text is easy to follow, the only section that a novice could use is Wayne Goddard's section on the creation of a simple hunting knife and even then large bits of this text and photos are lifted straight from the $50 Knife Shop. The book does not have any real commentary on knife format and design, steel descriptions, classification and choosing the best steel for the job or sheathmaking or sharpening.

I would recommend this book to anyone interested in starting to collect knives...It has all the necessary info to get started..Nice gimp chart too!!!

To the dude who wants knife VALUES===>
Here is a hint===>
www.eb@y.com
Collectibles
Knives, Swords, and Blades

The concept of a price "value" guide is humorous in today's internet era....
I wouldn't use this book to get an EXACT value of a knife
(that is impossible anyways)
But..You can use the figures to roughly estimate which knives are of more collector value and which ones are run of the mill $.89 Imperial Jackmasters

This is a good book as a resource. Many of my knives are listed by company, but not in the price guide. I am after the prices suggested.

Patricia Finney is P.F. Chisholm. Residing in Cornwall, England, P.F. Chisholm is no stranger to writing, having begun when she was seven and first getting published at 18. A Season Of Knives is her second adventure based on the life of Sir Robert Carey, a Deputy Warden who really lived during the reign of Queen Bess in 1592. Sir Robert has just become Deputy Warden of the West March, and has just come off of an adventure with horse rustling and treason (which is the subject of A Famine of Horses. P.F. Chisholm continues his adventures with A Surfeit of Guns and A Plague of Angels, and is presently working on her fifth Sir Robert Carey adventure.

Sir Robert Carey is supposed to enforce peace along the border of Scotland and England. He is handsome, chivalrous, intelligent, and is trying to avoid his creditors. He is also deeply in love with a married woman, Elizabeth Widdrington, who returns his love but is duty bound to her nasty husband. When Sir Robert rushes off to stop an attempted kidnaping of his beloved, he returns to find himself accused of the murder of the paymaster who has just been fired. Sir Robert's servant Barnabus has been imprisoned, and it is up to Sir Robert to investigate the crime to clear his good name and free his servant. His enemy, Sir Richard Lowther, is obviously in the middle of a scheme to undo Sir Robert:

"`On what evidence, Sir Richard, do you base your accusations?' he demanded, hearing his voice brittle with the effort not to shout. `On the evidence of a knife owned by your servant and a glove owned by yerself that I found by the body.' `How frightfully convenient for you,' Carey drawled. `Did you have much trouble stealing one of my gloves?'"

Sir Robert Carey is a double-edged hero suitable for the best period novels: he is languishing in love with a married woman while every single woman within reach sighs with longing for him; is a poor aristocrat who has to take grief from both sides of the fence because of not really fitting in; and has to perform a job that would undo many a man. P.F. Chisholm has found a historical figure who will provide grist for the mill for many adventures to come.

Shelley Glodowski, Reviewer

This is another wonderful installment in the Robert Carey series of (loosely defined) mysteries set on the 16th-century Scottish Border.

Anyone tired of twee, cutesy historical mysteries should read these immediately. Chisholm writes in a spare style which successfully infuses both humor and drama into the story. The characters, particularly the secondary characters, are endlessly appealing and the pacing of the plot is high-tension and breakneck. The hard-luck Border setting adds interest.

Season of Knives starts only days after the end of A Famine of Horses, the first book. Carey is trying to seduce the married Lady Elisabeth. Everyone in the area is struggling to get their hay harvest in -- except for Carey's enemies, who plan a raid to kidnap the Lady. Meanwhile, a local man is killed, and the list of possible culprits grows. There are some especially wonderful scenes here -- one in which corrupt rations dealers are offered their own wares is almost worth the price of the book by itself. There's plenty of fast-moving action and a bittersweet end. Here and there plausibility falters (would a woman theoretically outraged enough to cut her husband's throat really hesitate because it would mean washing all the sheets?) but overall this book sets a very high standard.

The second printing of Sharpening Made Easy (Nov. 2005) is now available with updated supplier information and a dozen or so text corrections.

This book will give you all the basic knowledge that you need to get your knives as sharp as they should be. If you are not sharpening strange shapes of blades, or edged tools other than knives, it will get you where you are going. There is one section discussing misc. kitchen tools (peeler, corer, etc.) that is unique to this book (although the grater was apparently overlooked). Also note that although several sharpening systems are compared, very few endorsements are made, and the author is not selling anything that I can tell.