Just came online to check in before I hit the road for Vegas.

What's this now? Russ Ellis recalcitrant about posting his own photo? Well, I suppose I can respect that. I will say, however, that I was somewhat taken aback when I met Russ last year. He appears uncommonly young for someone which his credentials. Yep, that's a compliment.

As for those whose mugs we see on regular basis, such as Sergeant Mac, Patrick Kelly, et al, I do look forward to the day we all can meet up and take swords and other things over...well, let's say coffee (one never knows who might be reading these posts).

I'll be sure to report back on the LVCKS and the Antique Arms Show when I return.

LOL good point! I'll see what I can do

:) Thanks Stephen, it's part of why my picture has stayed out of circulation, I don't know if people would trust me with their projects if they didn't think I'm this grizzled old scabbard maker.

...to recap:

January 21-23: Las Vegas Classic Knife Show. Vince bring the Viking to the show; let's me look at it, handle it, etc.; enters the sword for judging; wins Best Sword category; takes the sword back to Arizona after the show (GAAAAAH!!) because he did not finish the scabbard.

I leave Vince with some specific instructions in re: the scabbard (being the choosy, nitpicky bastard that I am) with these words: Do whatever you think is best.

I know, i know, I can be SUCH a demanding guy.

Latest emailed photo from Vince.

This "shutting my mouth and letting the Man do his thing" is working beautifully.

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Incredible ...... what a beautiful, beautiful, piece !

The scabbard was certainly worth the pain of seperation *g*

Yer a lucky lad, Stephen ! Congrats , Mac

I love the detail work on the scabbard Stephen. What a beautiful ensemble.

Thank you, Gentlemen, for the kind words.

I will be taking possession this Saturday, so I'll be able to make a detailed report some time after that.

Stay tuned.

:cool:

Stephen...very nice addition.

Hi Stephen

Well .... were waiting !

Stats ... pics .... drool ...... let's have it, laddie !

You've had enough time alone with it *g* Mac

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Hi Stephen

Thank you !

I hope you have small hands, as a 3"inch grip sounds kinda painful *g*
(no wonder them Vikings rode the pommels :-)

I look forward to your photos ..... make sure you get a good closeup of the scabbards fittings,too, as they are amazing !

Have fun, Mac

Hi all,

My apologies for being such a lazy so-and-so. Did get to the store, remembered to get some AA batteries and now my digital camera was loaded.

To answer your question, Mac, indeed I do have small hands and the Viking fits quite well, thanks for asking. :D

Now onto the pictures.

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Another view of sword in hand.

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Scabbard fittings.

You can't see it from the blurry photo, but on the silver fittings, the knotword part has been chipped and/or textured to give a "rough" look, which contrasts nicely against the polished part. Truly amazing. I'm glad I gave Vince specific instructions on that, which you may remember were: Do whatever you think is best. :cool:

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Scabbard throat

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Detail on the leatherword. Love the snake running through the body of the scabbard.

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"leatherwork" I meant to say.