A very important figure from my life retired a while ago. This was the man that taught me to hunt, taught me to shoot, and taught me how to be a good person and father. While he was not blood kin, he definitely was kith- which roughly translates to 'family that you choose'.
A while ago, I was on their ranch, and we were helping split wood from a tree that had fallen years ago. I snuck a chunk of that wood into my car, and also 'borrowed' a small length of copper wire that came from his work life. I started working on a gift-
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| It's log, it's log... |
After much cutting, sawing, sanding, and work, I ended up with this corkscrew:
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| This is the copper wire- turned into an inlay |
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| Burned brand |
Since I had a little bit more time to create something, I built a true 'working' knife for him to use on the ranch. A
Russell "Green River" Carbon Steel Blade, paired with handle scales made from "horse stall mat" rubber and brass pins made this:
This turned out really nice. The knife is light, the handle is 'grippy', and it will work great on the ranch. I thought this would be a great way to say "Happy Retirement" and hopefully show some of the appreciation for everything he has taught me.
The man who receives a gift made by hand and from the heart is a lucky soul indeed. I'd say he did a fine job of helping you find a solid track in live. What beautiful gifts!
ReplyDeleteVery nice. Source for the 5/32 pins?
ReplyDeleteHe will be so grateful for these. You definitely need to tell him where the copper and wood came from. I won't spoil the surprise by linking from my blog, but when you present it I do want him to read this. Thanks so much for doing this.
ReplyDeleteeia- Thank you. You are correct that built gifts mean a lot more.
ReplyDeleteMike- That's actually brass brazing rod from home depot. Best source I found for small pins.
45er- I plan on giving him the rest of the log back as well. Just because.
What beautiful work...you are a very talented man. He'll love 'em.
ReplyDeleteCoolest gift ever!! What a wonderful tribute to someone who had an amazing impact on your life.
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