Description
Back in 1825, the cutlers at Joseph Rodgers & Sons opened a grand showroom on Norfolk Street in Sheffield, England,a city renowned for its steel and bladesmithing. This shop wasn’t merely a place to purchase knives; it was a stage to exhibit their craft, displaying everything from delicate penknives to rugged hunting blades, and even the formidable Bowie knife, forged for survival in the American wilderness. At a time when most makers sold through middlemen, this direct approach was unusual. Early visitors often admired the gleaming knives behind glass, unaware they could actually take one home. Soon enough, the showroom attracted visitors from across the globe, including members of royalty, all eager to see the mirror-polished steel and skilled workmanship.
This folding knife is a faithful reproduction of their #6 spear point pattern, designed as a heavy-duty tool for demanding tasks. The blade bears all the original markings, including the intriguing “TO STRIKE FIRE” inscription near the spine,a nod to the days before matches, when the blade’s spine was struck against flint or other fire-starting materials to create sparks. On the right side of the carbon steel blade, you’ll find the star and Maltese cross stamp, a mark of the maker’s identity. The blade opens with a crisp “walk and talk” action and includes a half-stop, giving it a secure feel in the hand. The handle is crafted from polished buffalo horn scales, held in place by a brass shackle, combining durable materials with traditional design. This knife stands as a rugged tribute to a design that has endured through centuries, brought back to life by Windlass Steelcrafts.
Fun fact: The “TO STRIKE FIRE” marking wasn’t merely decorative,it directed users to strike the blade’s spine against flint to create sparks, making this knife a practical fire-starting tool long before matches were widely available.
