Sometimes, We Match The Kilt To The Accessory

[Riverkilt]

Aye, it for sure looks and feels like the Buck blades I've owned - why I bought it - but sadly there's not a mark on the blade or the handle...not a single indication of origin.

The little sheath that came with it was from cheap- cardboard-like leather poorly cut and machine stitched. Don't even know if the knifemaker made the sheath - sure doesn't look like it comparing the quality of the blade with the tacky cheapness of the sheath.

Have an folder with a similar type inlaid handle and its blade/works have many markings. Most curious.

Need to amble back over to that trading post and see if they have more similar knives I can use for sgian dubhs.

[gordontaos]

I really enjoy the unique qualities of your sgian dubh.

When I travel to your area I am always looking for good Trading Posts. However, I do not feel that I have the level of education or knowledge of the area to make the best choice. Right now my favorite is First American Traders in Gallup.

Which Trading Posts do you feel have the most knowledgeable proprietors, best value for the dollar, and selection? I certainly would like to follow your lead in sgian dubh.

[Riverkilt]

Well, I don't know Eastern Navajo well, just get through that side of the rez a few times a year.

Over here in Western Navajo its pretty unusual to find any knives in the trading posts (other than tiny kid toy knives or outlandish knives for the tourists). Same with Navajo Arts and Crafts stores around the rez.

Blair's Trading Post here in Page is where I got this one. Yet Pow Wow Trading post in the same shopping center doesn't usually carry knives.

Cameron Trading Post in Cameron used to - but I haven't seen knives there in the last couple years. Don't recall seeing any at Tuba City Trading Post either.

Since they're made by someone, somewhere, who has to bring it to the trading post to sell I just got into the habit of sort of looking around whenever I have need/time to stop in a trading post - particularly when I'm in a part of the rezlands I don't normally get to.

Found the very nice inlaid handle folder mentioned at a roadside stand 5 miles south of Bitter Springs. But when I've stopped there since have yet to see the same vendor or other knives.

Guess the hunt is part of the adventure.

Have sometimes just googled up trading post websites on line and checked to see if they offered knives. The knives sgian dubh size seem to be made for boys - which is fine with me.

One of the things I like about this knife is it seems to be made well for real use - in case I ever needed it for anything other than decoration or to cut an apple or slice cheese on a road trip.

Happy hunting.

Oh, If its a place where price is negotiable I act only slightly interested and say something about a nephew with a birthday coming up and I don't have much money but have to get him something...what do you get for that kid's knife? No way can I let on my heart is lusting after the knife or the price goes up.

[gordontaos]

Thank you for your assistance. I have been to Camerons, twice, but none of the other establishments that you mention.
Your advice on just keeping on hunting, and stopping at roadside stands, seems right.
Your negotiation strategy is classic.
Thank You.