Burchtree Knifeworks Bamboo Folder Knife

Reviewed by corwin99 on March 23rd, 2008

Michael Burch makes some of the nicest folders out there in my humble opinion. I have been a fan of his Asian-influenced folders since I first laid eyes on them about a year ago. I asked to be placed on the list for a Bamboo folder several months ago… my guess would be about 6 months ago, and I just got an email back saying one was ready!

When I got the folder, I was pretty excited. I wasn’t expecting a knife from Michael that soon, so when I received a Private Message on Jerzeedevil.com from him, I was stoked. The Bamboo folder is a very Asian looking knife, with a dropped edge, similar to his Dao knives. The blade shape is something of a reverse tanto, with a wide profile for Big-Knife cutting ability.

The blade is flat-ground from 1095 steel, and then differentially heat treated and then the Hamon is brought out, with what method I am not sure. I would guess that it is etched out. I think it would look even nicer if it was slowly polished by hand to bring it out the way a Japanese sword is done, but it looks great the way it is now. Edge is shaving sharp and cuts great. Since it is Carbon steel care will have to be taken when storing and using this knife as it will require some minor maintenance. Most of Burchtree Bladeworks’ knives are made from 1095 Steel.

The handle on this knife is what makes it special, and gives it it’s namesake. The solid Titanium liners are both carved by hand to resemble bamboo. Even the finish on the handle resembles bamboo. It seems to be a three-stage process of sanding with a rough grit, then bead-blasting, then finally tumbled to give it a slightly worn look. It looks really cool, and fits my hand perfectly. The blade is VERY thick, not Strider AR thick, but close at 3/16″.

Another nice touch was the solid G-10 backspacer… any solid backspacer is nicer than posts or standoffs in my opinion. The pocket clip appears to be a custom made Titanium clip of Michael’s own design.

Overall, I’m extremely impressed with the Bamboo folder, and I immediately asked to be put on the list for another folder from Michael Burch. His knives are amazing and I can see why he has such a following.

Blade Length: 2-3/4″
Overall Length: 6-5/8″
Blade Thickness: 3/16″
Blade Steel: 1095 steel w/Hamon
Handle Material: Titanium

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