This replica Forest Ranger Bowie Knife is based on the knife design that von Tempsky issued
to his company of Forest Rangers in 1863.
Gustavus Ferdinand von Tempsky, adventurer, soldier and artist, learned the benefits of the
Bowie knife in California while working in the gold fields. He possessed a fine knife of
American manufacture for his own use, but had about 30 bowie knives made to his personal
design by a cutler of Shortland St, Auckland. These were issued to the men of No. 2
Company, New Zealand Forest Rangers, under Major von Tempsky's command.
The knives were made from waggon spring steel - being one of the few sources of suitable
steel available to blacksmiths in Auckland in 1863.
The big knives were used to clear tracks through bush, dig defensive positions, cut fire wood
and for general use about camp.
Svord's version uses high carbon tool steel for it's eleven inch blade and is supplied with a
leather sheath.
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