Knives to Last a Lifetime: A Steve Nolte Knives Feature

If you’re an avid collector of knives and want a truly unique piece, a Damascus knife is one of the most unique on the market, thanks to the one-of-a-kind process that it takes to craft the mottled steel for each blade.

Whether you're in the market for your next collector's piece or need a sharp, handcrafted knife for cooking, hunting, or anything in between, you'll find that there is a Damascus knife that's perfect for you. But before you start searching for your ideal Damascus knife, let's dig a little deeper into what makes these knives so unique and why you need to add one to your collection today!

What is a Damascus Knife?

Damascus steel dates back to 750-945 CE and is one of the toughest metals used for knives. These knife blades are characterized by the unique banding and mottling present on the steel, giving them a one-of-a-kind look. Getting their name from the capital city of Syria, Damascus, these blades were commonly made by bladesmiths in the Near East during the medieval period. Today, artisans still use the techniques started in Damascus to create unique knives featuring similar patterns, in combination with hand-carved, custom handles.

Modern-Day Damascus Knives

Modern-day Damascus knives gained popularity in the 1970s. But, since the original method of making true Damascus steel is a thing of the past, the term now refers to any blade that is created with steel, featuring a mottled or visible grain pattern. Modern artisans use a process called pattern welding to get this effect, folding and twisting layers of different types of steel together.

Crafting modern Damascus steel is very labor and time-intensive, making high-quality Damascus knives a little more expensive than alternatives. However, you get what you pay for, and paying more for high-quality Damascus knives like Steve Nolte knives, is vital to getting a piece that will last a lifetime. 

What Sets a Damascus Blade Apart?

While Damascus steel is not the strongest metal on the market, it's still a reliable and durable option. Damascus steel blades are an excellent choice for anyone who wants a knife blade that stays sharp longer. Therefore, a Damascus knife is a great option for a hunting knife and even as a kitchen knife! Since they stay sharp longer, they'll do well for slicing, dicing, and chopping! The Damascus knife is one of several traditional Hawaiian knives that we love.

Carbon Damascus Knives Versus Stainless Damascus Knives

There are two different kinds of Damascus steel that you can choose from when you’re in the market for a Damascus knife: carbon and stainless steel. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, so let's take a look at each.

Carbon Damascus

• Softer to work with while forging the knife blade

• Once hardened, it’s harder than stainless Damascus

• Requires more maintenance than stainless Damascus to prevent rusting

Stainless Damascus

• Not as sharp as carbon Damascus

• Less likely to rust, needing less maintenance and care

No matter which steel blade you prefer, you must care for your Damascus knife properly to prevent rusting, which can happen if any moisture remains on the blade once it is stored. Taking great care to clean and store your knife correctly will ensure that it lasts for years to come, looking just as good as it did the day you bought it!

Who is Steve Nolte?

Steve Nolte is a talented artisan from Fort Smith, Arkansas, who began his craft in 2008 shortly after retiring from the burglary and fire alarm business. Starting this hobby as a way to discourage boredom, Nolte quickly found a passion for making custom Steve Nolte knives for fellow Arkansans and shops around the country, saying he hasn’t “worked” on a knife a day in his life. For him, it’s a genuine passion. And if you’ve ever seen custom Steve Nolte knives in person, you’ve probably realized that passion immediately!

3 Steve Nolte Knives Perfect for Your Damascus Knife Collection

Crafting custom knives blending steel, bone, and wood allows Nolte to stand out from other knife makers, pairing innovative handle designs with uniquely crafted Damascus blades. Made in his basement shop, Nolte takes great pride in creating unique works of art for people all around the world. Let’s take a look at some of the unique Steve Nolte knives we have in stock!

Stainless Steel Damascus Folder Knife

Perfect for the outdoorsman in your life, this beautifully crafted folding knife features a handcrafted handle inlaid with Hawaii's state gemstone black coral, and chrysocolla gemstone. Pair that with the breathtaking Damascus steel blade, and you've got a genuinely breathtaking piece!

Exclusive Steve Nolte Knife with Larry Donnelly Damascus Steel

Drop Point Hunter Knife with Sheath

Your Home for Custom Steve Nolte Knives in Hawaii

If you want to shop for a beautiful, custom Damascus knife in person, come down to our storefront in Lahaina to check out all the Steve Nolte knives we have in stock! While you’re here, you can check out all the other uniquely Hawaiian gifts we have for everyone on your list, whether they need a custom knife, unique jewelry or handcrafted scrimshaw pieces, we've got you covered! 

Founded in 1971, here at Whaler’s Locker, we’ve been proudly serving the Maui community with unique collections of gifts made by talented artisans, local to the Hawaiian Islands and beyond! If you’re too far from Maui but still want to take a look around, check out our website to see all the unique gifts available to you—with new arrivals added often!