Damascus Steel Hunting Knife – Becknell Edition

Becknell Damascus Steel Hunting Knife

Back in the early 1800s, William Becknell made a name for himself as a rugged frontiersman and savvy trader who helped shape early American history. His journey began in the late 1700s, and during the War of 1812, he rose through the military ranks while defending the frontier against British-supported Native forces. His courage and leadership earned him the title of Captain—a name he proudly carried across the western territories.

After his time in the military, Becknell shifted gears and found his calling in trade. He played a key role in carving out the Santa Fe Trail, which opened up a booming trade route with Mexico and earned him the nickname “Father of the Santa Fe Trail.” True to his adventurous nature, he went on several expeditions, always on the lookout for new paths and profitable ventures in trapping and trading.

Later in life, Becknell put down roots in Texas. There, he joined the fight during the Texas Revolution and even served briefly as a Texas Ranger. By the time he passed away at 68, he had built a substantial estate near the Red River, filled with land and livestock—a testament to a life lived boldly and with purpose.

A Knife Worthy of Legend

Named in honor of William Becknell, this Damascus hunting knife pays tribute to a true American trailblazer. Becknell’s life was full of grit, courage, and frontier spirit—and we like to think this knife reflects a bit of that same character. It’s easy to romanticize the past, but Becknell lived it—and we believe he’d appreciate a blade like this: rugged, reliable, and made to last.

Mid-sized and built for real use, the modified clip-point blade handles everything from skinning game to slicing through camp provisions. It’s even got the kind of balance you’d want in close-quarters defense, just like back on the trail. The tip’s design tapers smoothly, giving you faster, deeper puncture when you need precision.

The Micarta handle is shaped to sit comfortably in your hand—even during tough jobs—and there's a hole at the base if you want to thread a lanyard through. With a full-tang Damascus steel build, this knife isn’t just sharp in performance—it’s also a beauty. Whether you’re adding it to your gear or your collection, it’s made to be used and admired.

Premium Craftsmanship, Built to Perform

• Overall Length: 9" – offers solid reach without being bulky.
• Blade Length: 4.75" – perfect for precision cuts and all-around utility.
• Handle Length: 4.25" – sized for a comfortable, secure grip.
• Blade Width: 0.16" – slim enough for detail work, strong enough for tough tasks.
• Blade Material: Damascus steel, forged from 1095 and 15n20 high-carbon steel.
• Damascus Pattern: Classic twist pattern with 264 visible layers.
• Handle Material: Durable Micarta with full-tang construction for balance and strength.
• Grind: Secondary bevel for a razor-sharp edge.
• Included: Full-grain leather sheath and a premium wood presentation box.

This knife doesn’t just look good—it’s made to be used, admired, and passed down.

Each Knife is One of a Kind

Because every Becknell knife is handmade using natural materials, no two are exactly alike. You might notice slight variations in color, pattern, or finish—and that’s part of what makes your knife special. While the one you receive may look a little different from the photos, it’s crafted with the same care, skill, and attention to detail. What you get is a blade with its own personality—truly unique, yet held to the same high standards of craftsmanship.

Protective Carrying Option

Every Becknell knife comes with a durable, protective sheath to keep your blade safe and secure. Because we use natural materials and small-batch production, the sheath’s color or style may vary slightly from what’s shown in the photos. If you have any questions about your sheath or need assistance, feel free to visit our support page—or reach out to us directly. We’re always here to help.

Caring for Your Damascus Blade

To keep your Becknell knife in top shape, a little care goes a long way. Because it's made with high-carbon 1095 steel, the blade can rust if left wet—so always dry it thoroughly after use. We recommend hand washing with mild soap and hot water only. Once dry, apply a light coat of oil to preserve the steel’s beauty and long-lasting performance. With proper care, this blade will serve you well for years to come.