The Upswept Skinning Knife is built around a trailing point blade profile that puts the cutting edge exactly where skinning work needs it. The spine curves upward toward the tip, which drops the belly lower and gives the edge more surface contact during long, smooth strokes through hide. It's a shape that serious hunters reach for specifically because it reduces the effort behind each pass and keeps the tip clear of internal organs during field dressing work.

Wood-grain Damascus runs horizontally across the blade in flowing lines, shifting in contrast as the light angle changes. The split handle pairs olive wood on the upper section with red pakka wood on the lower, joined by a single brass pin that locks both materials to the full tang blade. The two tones work well together — the honey warmth of the olive wood against the deep red of the pakka wood gives the handle a natural, layered look without relying on resin or synthetic color. A dark brown leather sheath with snap button closures ships with the knife, fitted for belt carry.

At 6-7 inches overall, this knife sits in a practical size range for field use — long enough to handle larger game without feeling unwieldy for smaller detail work.

Upswept Skinning Knife at JW Steel Crafts, combining a wood-grain Damascus trailing point blade with a split olive wood and red pakka wood handle.

The History Behind This Blade

Trailing point Skinner blades were developed by hunters who needed a blade that maximized cutting edge contact during hide removal. Wood-grain Damascus forging dates back centuries, valued for the layered strength and flowing pattern left by repeated folding. Split wood handles became popular in custom knife making for pairing two complementary materials in one grip. JW Steel Crafts forges this blade by hand, keeping the upswept profile true to its skinning roots.

Blade Performance

Wood-grain Damascus steel holds a sharp edge through repeated field and skinning use. The trailing point profile keeps the belly low and in full contact during long skinning strokes. Full tang construction keeps the knife balanced and steady throughout extended field dressing sessions. The upswept tip stays clear of internal organs during field dressing, reducing contamination risk. As high-carbon steel, the blade benefits from regular oiling to stay rust-free after field use.

Handle Construction

Olive wood covers the upper section of the handle in a honey-toned, smooth grain. Red pakka wood fills the lower section in a deep, rich tone that darkens toward the base. A brass pin secures both sections to the full tang blade, keeping the split construction tight under repeated use. Pakka wood resists moisture better than untreated wood, and the olive wood section stays stable with basic care. Full tang construction runs the entire length of both handle sections for strength and balance.

Best Used For

This knife is built for hunters who field dress deer, elk, and similar game regularly. The trailing point profile makes hide removal faster and cleaner than a standard drop point blade. Outdoorsmen who skin regularly will get the most consistent results from the upswept belly on longer animals. Collectors appreciate the split handle material combination as much as the blade shape itself. As a gift, it suits any hunter looking for a dedicated skinning knife with quality Damascus steel and natural handle materials.

Specifications Table

FAQs

What is an upswept skinning knife used for?
Field dressing and skinning game, where the trailing point keeps the edge low for efficient strokes.

Is this blade forged Damascus steel?
Yes, forged with a wood-grain Damascus pattern across the blade.

What is the handle made from?
Split olive wood and red pakka wood, secured with a brass pin.

Does this knife include a sheath?
Yes, a dark brown leather sheath with snap button closures is included.

Why is an upswept blade better for skinning?
The raised tip and low belly give the edge more contact during long skinning strokes.

Does this blade need special care?
Yes, wipe and oil the blade after field use to prevent rust.

Would this make a good gift for a hunter?
Yes, it suits hunters, outdoorsmen, and collectors of Damascus skinning knives.