I have all the Forum knives going back to (at least) 2010. The only one I use is the 2013 Irish Congress. To me this is the ideal Traditional Forum Knife, and representational of what I always hope we can accomplish with the annual; resurrection of an old, unusual, pattern. Sadly, looking back, this is not very often carried out; the ring pull and the easy open being the other major variations on that theme I can recall. I like to think that this forum, having prevailed on manufacturers to provide such examples, encouraged them to make available even larger runs in those patterns. There are so many patterns that are no longer available that it seems like a wasted opportunity when we "settle" for a current pattern with minimal cosmetic changes.
Here’s my ‘19 forum knife...I’ve used it a lil I used to have the ‘17 TC, but gifted it to a member here who got me into the traditional niche in the first place, and they weren’t able to score one so I figured they deserved it
I used the 2011 Easy Open as my EDC for 8 years until I lost it last year. . I went online to see if any were for sale and there weren't, but the last ones sold were for $500! Mine was less than $100...lol . I sure miss it. It broke my heart to lose it. Now I carry the 2013 Congress Jack, the GEC 2010 AAPK Interior Rams Horn Trapper, or a Case Trapper daily. Still miss my 2011...
I feel your pain. I missed that years initial purchase due to a extended visit to the sandbox, and paid dearly to make up for it. Even then it took me five years to find one.
I understand your POV but the problem surely, is prevailing upon the (dwindling) manufacturers to resurrect and make us a pattern. Then there's the commercial aspects, people demanding a price ceiling so we can be 'inclusive' and the Forum owner to be factored in, no easy task.
The sheepsfoot on the 2015 works very well in removing the answer section from my daughter's workbook.
I bought two 2010s and forced a patina on one of them and opened a couple letters and put it back into its box. The other one is still in its box. Looking for owners.
I have posted these pics up before, but thought they would be appropriate for this thread. I get a lot of joy using this knife. It’s comfortable to hold and looks great. Here I am using it to check silk development and using the ebony as contrast to see if pollen is still viable.
Just noticed this thread. I’ve been absent of late (last 5-6 years or so). These traditionals have held my interest and have gained much use.
Ok, here is the 2019 with some new duds. The stag is some I have been playing around with dyeing techniques. It's also thinner than the other stag I had on it, so not so bulky in the pocket. Please excuse the poor pin work, it's been apart a few too many times now, but still very serviceable, and I think it'll get more pocket time now. Oh yeah, I added a spacer in between the blades.