Rehmke Custom Knives

If you’re looking for a rugged, reliable companion to have with you on your next adventure, look no further. Don Rehmke’s Survival Hunter fits the bill. Don takes the less is more concept to a whole new level. 

It would appear that this knife was purpose built with bow drill fire making and bush crafting in mind from the start. From tip to stern this thing is built to go the distance. Note the overall straight line of the knife, it gives it a very simple look, but makes it extremely versatile. There is no funky angle to overcome when working with the knife. Because of it’s straightness it is very easily used to drill into a fire board, and baton 1 ½” and larger pieces of wood into more manageable pieces.  This blade design also makes short work of other daily tasks as well.

 However don’t let the straight lines fool you, this is one of the most ergonomic, comfortable knives you will ever use. Instead of just putting some micarta slabs on and calling it good, Don uses thicker pieces and works and rounds the handle to the unique shape of the steel beneath it. When you hold it in your hand it just fits. The design is so simple and effective you’ll wonder why you didn’t think of it yourself. You won’t find a skull crusher pommel on this model, the only sharp parts of this knife are where they should be, on the blade. If you find yourself in a situation where you have to clean multiple animals, or use this knife for multiple days in a row, you will greatly come to appreciate the time and care taken on this often overlooked aspect of a knife. 

 I received this knife as a gift from some very good friends a couple of years ago. It hasn’t left my side since. The D2 tool steel is an excellent choice for both durability and edge retention. Hardened to 58-61 RC, when necessary the edge touches up on a diamond stone, (or the diamond file on a Leatherman Wave) quite nicely.  The drop point tip means you can really use this knife and not have to worry about chipping the tip or otherwise damaging it. The spine is 3/16” from the pommel to about an inch away from the tip where it begins it’s taper.

 Keeping this knife handy and safe until needed is a custom Kydex sheath made just for this knife by Don. As with everything the devil is in the details and it’s here that Don really shines. The fit and finish on his sheaths give you confidence knowing that when you put your knife away it will be where you left it when you need it.

 Don’s knives are built to be used. No flashy polished parts to worry about keeping clean. Once you use it you will find yourself looking for reasons to use it over and over. It’s size, shape and weight make it very easy to put on your belt or throw in a pack so it will be with you should you need it. From camp chores and animal prep to bush crafting, this design takes it all in stride. You might want to think twice about loaning it out though, you might not get it back!

 Thank you Don, for making hard working art.

Ben Ballard, USMC 89-94


        

        

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"I just received the knife you made for me.  'Wow' is all I can say.  I am a former active duty Marine and have been in law enforcement all of my life.  I own many custom knives (Hartsfield, Fujisaka, Dozier, etc.).  The knife you made for me is spectacular in every way as well as tough.  It will be my main travel companion as I take a lot of trips way off the beaten path.  You are an impressive artist, and my buddy who just saw the knife is already wanting one for himself.  I can't believe you only charged $285.  It is worth way more than that.  I look forward to doing business with you again am proud to support a local artist as yourself.  Thank you so much."

Mike Moon