Custom Shrike- SH227

The Shrike was initially conceived by designer Gavin Coleman in early 2017 as a purpose made defensive knife during his involvement in the development of The Maul , a combatives system which focussed itself around the use of knives. The experiences of this development and combative exploration was a major influencing factor in the design of the Shrike, and after several design evolutions it remains one of the most formidable defensive EDC knives on the market, and our most popular model.

The Pikal style was chosen for the Shrike due to its simplicity of function, but also its devastatingly destructive ability. The Pikal configuration offers the user the ability to deliver severe damage to an opponent with very base, and quite instinctive movement patterns. This style of knife has since become a hallmark of Ironside Edge Works’ and one of our specialties.

The Shrike hasn’t been tampered with in terms of its fundamental design. It features an ergonomic handle which allows for fast indexing on the draw, without snag points for concealed carry. The shape of the handle offers the user a secure and natural grip, which helps to drive the point of the blade with a neutral wrist.

Shrike SH227 is the first of its kind. This is the first Shrike made from W2 Steel, a prime steel for creating Hamon in the blade. This Shrike has been completely hand cut and free hand ground from scratch. The blade was clayed in house and forge heat treated to create the unique hamon in the blade. Hamon is the Japanese term for the line which divides the hardened steel edge from the softer steel spine, it’s a visible representation of the chemistry change inside the steel. This is an art form all on its own, using a skilled approach to  heat treating processes, and the application of a clay mixture to create beautiful Hamon. This is inherent in the steel, and not a decorative surface finish that is enhanced and highlighted by etching the blade surface.

The handle is a classic Tsukamaki variant built on a black G10 liner, with mirror polished black buffalo horn, Antiqued Samegawa and black leather tsukaito wrapped over the top. This is an extremely comfortable handle with a classic Japanese Tsukamaki appearance.

All our Tsukamaki knives are wrapped extremely tightly, using washi paper and traditional methods. The wrap is functional but is not resin sealed as we do not feel it is necessary and more of a personal choice we wish to let the owner make. A tsukamaki wrap like this will be just fine for daily EDC, just as it was centuries ago in Feudal Japan.

Made to be dependable and tough this Shrike comes with a Fold over style Kydex Sheath and can be fitted out with Soft Loop or DCC HLR Clip mounts. 

This is a truly unique defensive EDC knife that is worthy of the Divine Companion moniker.