Our Favorite Scrimshaw Knives

It’s hard to be partial when asked what our favorite knives are. When so many stunning pieces surround you, it’s natural to love them each for different reasons. What we can share is that so many of our visitors who walk through our doors have a hard time peeling their eyes away from our scrimshaw knives. We have so many people come through our doors for various reasons, but they all seem so captivated by the detailed, history-filled scrimshaw knives. If you’re interested in Hawaiian creations to take back as souvenirs for friends and family, or looking for your own keepsakes, our selection is sure to intrigue you. If you’re looking for a little part of Hawaii, any one of our scrimshaw knives will undoubtedly make the cut! Have a peek at some of our favorites.

Scrimshaw: A Piece of the Islands

Scrimshaw is a traditional part of Hawaiian history, and we love sharing the stories behind the pieces we carry. Our own local Maui artists create many of the works of art you’ll see in our scrimshaw knives collection. Each piece tells a story through the intricate design of scrimshaw. The time, precision, and heart our local artists put into each of their scrimshaw knives are unlike anything you’ve ever seen. When guests enter our store, it’s common to be intrigued by our collection of scrimshaw products. The breathtaking designs tell a story in a way you've likely never experienced before, and that's what makes our scrimshaw knives and other treasures so rare. 

The Art of Scrimshaw

So, what exactly is scrimshaw? It refers to the engraved artwork initially created by whalers in the eighteenth century. Scribing these beautiful designs is known as one of the oldest American folk-art forms. When New England whaling vessels would set out on lengthy voyages, sailors were left with hours to fill. They were often given a portion of whales’ teeth from their successful catches. Sailors began spending their downtime working on creating gifts for their families with the teeth. A variety of art was made, from detailed scribed scenes of the sea to trinkets, toys, combs, and boxes. It was truly an art form. Scrimshaw evolved into encompassing carvings, engravings, and scrollwork typically created on bones or ivory, most commonly engraved on the byproducts of whales. 

The Appeal of Hawaiian Knives

Scrimshaw knives each hold a bit of Hawaii that you won’t find in all souvenirs. While you can certainly gift a Maui shot glass or keychain, it won't come with a fascinating tale behind the design. You won’t know the story which led the artist to the piece you chose. But if you're searching for unique items with an original story to tell, you'll undoubtedly find it in our Hawaiian scrimshaw knives.

Scrimshaw Knives We Love to Show Off

All of our scrimshaw knives are adored by our visitors, both in our store and online. There are certainly some that have become notable favorites. Many of our scrimshaw knives come in multiple design choices, shapes, and sizes to fit any needs. Just be warned, the intriguing style choices make it a bit tough to leave with only one. In fact, we may make a collector out of you before you go!

Scrimshaw Trapper Knife

The Scrimshaw Trapper Knife offers a smooth bone handle and choice of four designs, all expertly scrimshawed by local Maui artist Derek Fine. These beautiful scrimshaw knives are designed with nickel silver accent bolsters and make the perfect present or keepsake for yourself.

Scrimshaw Hen and Rooster Knife with Sheath

Another all-time favorite is the Scrimshaw Hen and Rooster Knife with Sheath. The custom artwork features a tall ship on its staghorn handle. The magnificent Hen & Rooster brand fixed knife comes tucked in a brown leather sheath, showing off its beautifully crafted handle.

Scrimshaw Lockback Pocket Knife

You definitely can’t leave Maui without a gecko from our islands! As you browse through our scrimshaw knives, you’re bound to catch a glimpse of the gecko adorned Scrimshaw Lockback Pocket Knife. Another favorite from artist Derek Fine, the three-inch gecko pocket knife is both tropical and adorable. The stainless clip point blade, measuring two inches, is a gift-giver favorite. With nickel silver bolsters and a single locking blade, it’s one of our favorites too. 

Scrimshaw Barlow Pocket Knife

Since our pocket knife collection is always popular, the Scrimshaw Barlow Pocket Knife —the Barlow style knife by Ocoee River — was sure to make the favorites list. You’ll have your pick from five Hawaiian-themed designs, including the eagle ray. The folding pocket knife is known for its comfortable oval-shaped handle and sturdy lengthened bolster. If you’re looking around for an eye-catching option, the Scrimshaw Fixed Blade Knife with Sheath is an appealing choice. Each eight-inch knife comes with a sleek black leather sheath. The elegant handle of this Elk Ridge brand knife is scrimshawed with three design options.

Scrimshaw Design Options

• Ship with lighthouse
• Hammerhead shark
• Ship with a sperm whale

Scrimshaw Fixed Blade Damascus Knife with Sheath

Wait until you see the Scrimshaw Fixed Blade Damascus Knife with Sheath! With a uniquely designed bone handle, this Damascus steel blade will have you in awe. Complete with a leather sheath, you may opt never to hide this beautiful blade from sight and display it without its sheath. We do hope you have the chance to see this one in person! The blade itself is remarkable and almost impossible to put into words.

Scrimshaw Style Money Clip with Knife and File

If you’re looking for scrimshaw knives with a twist, you’ll love this one by Linda Layden. The Scrimshaw Style Money Clip with Knife and File is a real find for any man you're shopping for. Giving this as a graduation, birthday, or Father’s Day gift from Hawaii offers history and functionality all in one. With four detailed designs to select from, you may want to grab a few for upcoming occasions.

Scrimshaw Design Options

• Hawaiian Islands
• Hang Loose
• Shark
• Turtle

We’d love to show you around and share the stories behind all our favorite scrimshaw knives. In fact, many of our visitors have found it to be very helpful in pairing the perfect knife with each person they are shopping for. Whether you’re visiting us on the island of Maui or browsing our online store, we’re here to help you find unique island treasures that will leave lasting impressions. Come by or reach out today for the perfect unique Hawaiian gifts that await you!