Custom Tacticals » Tom Anderson

Tom Anderson Tanto Folder

corwin99 — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 17:02:17 +0000

My first experience with Tom Anderson designed knives came from Master Cutlery. I immediately classified Tom as another Gil Hibben – a Great knifemaker who had sold out. However, I found out that Tom was still making custom folders, and lots of them. I thought that was pretty cool. I also found several step by steps on how he makes a folder on the internet and it changed my impression of him immediately.

This is one of Tom’s older folders, and is a bit dated as far as materials goes. The handles and single liner are all Stainless steel, with a ATS-34 blade. It is chisel flat-ground blade, with bead-blasted finish. The handle has drilled and bevelled holes Tom Mayo style, but this was before Tom Mayo’s time. Tom Anderson’s knives didn’t quite appreciate and get the same fever as Tom Mayo’s, however.

This is one of two Anderson knives I’ve ever owned, and the other is quite different. Tom’s grinds are fantastic, his designs are certainly unique, and quality is top notch. Blade is sharp, and ergonics are good as well. I wish this one had a pocket clip, because its a really large knife and very much a tactical folder, but a tactical folder without a pocket clip needs a kydex sheath or something and this had neither.

I actually contemplated tapping screw holes in this knife and mounting my own pocket clip. The style of the knife lends itself to Dalton Combat style pocket clips, with the chunky hex bolt screws on the clip, similar to the way the thumbstud is on this knife.

Some people may critisize the chisel ground edge as making this knife unsuitable for tactical use, due to the thinner blade edge, and the difficulty in making straight cuts, but in the end I think its just a feature and gimmick to give collectors some variety in the knives they collect. I personally do not like the chisel ground edge but it is not a deal breaker. I prefer chisel ground over partially serrated.

Blade Length 4″
Overall Length 9″
Blade Steel: ATs-34
Handle Material: Stainless Steel

Tom Anderson Damascus Valkyrie Knife

corwin99 — Sun, 19 Aug 2007 00:07:22 +0000

Tom Anderson, like Gil Hibben, sold his designs to entry level budget knife companies which may have reduced his popularity among some knife collectors, but like Hibben, his custom work is no less impressive. Tom’s knives are top notch and his designs are very unique.

To boot, Tom’s also got a couple of tutorials up around the web of how he makes a folding knife. He’s willing to not only share his methods, but put forth the effort of having them published on the internet. Can’t be a half bad guy if he’s willing to do that eh? The Valkyrie is one of a few Tom Anderson customs I’ve owned, and definately the most special of the few that I’ve owned. This model is the smaller one, as there appear to be two sizes available.

The design is very unique and the materials are top notch, with a stainless twist damascus blade, dyed giraffe bone handle overlays, and a blasted titanium framelock. The knife is quite small, but feels comfortable when held, and has a mean edge.

Opening the knife requires pushing down on the friction folder-like protrusion at the end of the blade tang, which is somewhat awkward. I have found it hard to open the knife in one smooth action, sometimes requiring an adjustment or two hands to open it properly and safely. As a carry folder, its not your best choice. This knife does do an excellent job of sitting in my display case and looking pretty, however!

The point is extremely sharp and the hawksbill blade opens envelopes admirably. I’ve never tried using it on anything else! Fit and finish are impeccable, as are all Tom’s knives, but for some reason Tom’s knives don’t hold up as well resale on the secondary market. Not an issue for me, because I don’t plan to sell this knife, but it might be down the road, and it is something to consider when buying one.

That aside, its still a great knife and would be a fantastic addition to anyone’s collection!

Blade Steel: Damasteel
Blade Length: 2.75″
Overall Length: 6.5″
Handle Material: Giraffe Bone