The Variable Wharncliffe

 

This is Kizer’s newest neck knife, the Variable Wharncliffe.

Kizer's Variable Wharncliffe neck knife

It’s an awful name, not at all descript. It’s a fixed blade knife and you have no options on blade or handle length.  Be that as it may, it is a cool knife.  Let’s look into it.

The knife was designed by Dirk Pinkerton, one of the up-and-coming knife designers who works with several companies.  

Dirk always had an interested in knives.  Following examples set by his father and brother, Dirk came to realize a knife was essential tool.  One can appreciate the work and craftsmanship that goes into a beautiful knife, but it is a tool first and should be used.  As his collection and interest grew, Dirk became friends with legendary knife maker and designer, the late Darrel Ralph.  If you don’t recognize the name, it sucks to be you.  Darrel started making knives in 1987 and his influence over the custom knife market pushed other designers to excel.  He had a significant impact on the tactical knife world.  He passed following a stroke in 2021.

Made from D2 steel

Dirk was influenced by DR who told him essentially, don’t ask me to modify one of my knives for you, make your own. 

That was good advice.  Dirk purchased his first professional grinder in 2005.  Utilizing his 18 years in the private security working with law enforcement, S.W.A.T., fire and life rescue, and  various military units, he drew on this experience to determine the optimal configurations. 

The Variable Wharncliffe is a 4.8-inch-long slice of D2 steel shaped into a neck knife with a 3.4-inch blade.  The blade is 0.1 inch thick at the spine and tappers down to a razor edge.  The handle is black micarta centered behind a 1-inch finger hole.  It come with a kydex neck sheath that secures the knife until you need it.

The blade features a reverse tanto that drops the point below the centerline.  The Wharncliffe is a high shoulder flat grind.  Unlike many wharncliffe blades the straight edge is canted up, creating a powerful driving point with the reverse tanto.  Coarse jimping on the blade’s spine gives you extra control over the blade despite the small handle.  The handle is a hexagon shape 1.4 inches long and 0.45 inches thick.  My social commentary and ring finger naturally lock down on the handle.

The coarse jimping makes for an enhanced grip

        

D2 steel is seeing a resurgence.  Invented in 1927, the properties and heat treatment of this steel have become well understood and is a fine  steel for 90% of our use.  While not truly a stainless steel, it straddles the border between high carbon and stainless steel.  D2 needs more attention and a thin coat of oil.  Take care of this steel and you will not be disappointed. 

I like it a lot.  I’m a big fan of smallish knives that can be concealed, but deliver big performance.  I’d carry this as a back up when I’m off the concrete or in non-permissible environments... you know what I mean.    You can find yours at the e-link below.  Its currently (Dec. 2024) on sale for under $23.  You better hurry!

https://www.kizerknives.com/products/variable-wharncliffe-1052a1?srsltid=AfmBOoqR0L-ut0cKvkq7l1BJLCqW4PTreIrum1OrJ2V6U15KKQh6KANz

Just a reminder: Nobody is sending me free knives or paying me for these blogs.  I just enjoy knives.