Every blackpowder shooter needs a
dependable patch knife in his kit, and this year’s CLF fundraising auction will
afford attendees the opportunity to own a truly fine example by knifemaker
Verlin Cossel.
Cossel’s
patch knife is an evocative classic that conjures images of the early American
frontier. Starting with reclaimed steel from an antique hay rake tine, Cossel
handcrafted the blade at the coal forge in his home workshop. The blade is
fitted in its tastefully-aged antler handle with a German silver pin, and sports
a hand-cast pewter end cap. Cossel’s knife will also see double duty on the
range: the base of the antler handle is fitted with a handy bullet starter.
The sheath
for this piece is ruggedly appealing. The blade itself is cradled in an inner
rawhide sleeve. The body of the outer sheath is handcrafted from walnut-dyed
deerskin and is entirely hand-sewn.
Cossel’s
utilitarian blade comes complete with a unique display stand suitable for home
or office. The stand, which accommodates both the knife and the sheath, is made
from apple and nectarine branches held by a nicely-patterned spalted hackberry
base.
