Hi, all -

I recently ordered a Paul Chen Sgian - I waited until it came in to post my opinion of it. I wanted a useable Sgian - as another member here has stated; "I don't own any non-usable knives". I found this at http://damascusknifestore.safewebsho...ubh_knife.html - for $57.95 plus a few bucks shipping, it seemed like a good deal. Shipping time was something like 6 days - over the holiday rush!

I'm very pleased with the knife; for the same price as most chrome-plated, unusable Sgians out there, I have a solid-feeling, attractive knife that comes with a good, usable edge on it. The fact that it's Damascus steel is a bonus to me - the pattern on the steel of my knife is very subtle, but beautiful on examination. Mine was shipped coated in Cosmoline or some such anti-rust coating (you do have to keep carbon steel blades oiled, of course). Washed off the shipping grease with hot water, applied a light coat of olive oil, and let haggises everywhere tremble in fear!

Fit and finish is OK, as espected for a mass produced Sgian. The sheath is solid wood, with cast and plated mountings. The handle feels solid, is of composition or plastic, and fits the hand well. The shape of the pommel - cocked at an angle - allows it to ride comfortably in the hose. The large 'amethyst', wile appearing gaudy initially, looks great peeking out o'er the hose-tops.

All in all, a good knife, and a great buy!