I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again — I’m a huge fan of LT Wright Knives (LTWK). The knives coming out of this shop are outstanding examples of quality, precision, and craftsmanship. The attention to detail is nothing short of phenomenal. LTWK has also built a strong community around its brand, especially through the Pout House forum, which is home to some of the finest people I’ve encountered. The camaraderie and brotherhood found there are rare, and the annual membership fee is a small price to pay for what you receive in return — knowledge, support, and genuine friendships.
Over the years, I’ve tried countless knives — different steels, grinds, shapes, and sizes. Some were large, others small. Through trial and experience, and especially after becoming more familiar with LTWK, I’ve found exactly what I like in a knife:
- Blade Length: 3″ to 5″
- Blade Shape: Drop point or spear point
- Grind: Scandi or flat grind
- Steel: O1, A2, or 52100 — I strongly prefer carbon steels
- Handle Material: Micarta or select woods like ironwood, olive wood, or yew
I’ve moved away from stainless and super steels altogether — the few I owned were eventually sold off.
Recently, I had the chance to pick up a small LTWK blade: the Pronghorn. Inspired by the puukko-style design, I was eager to see how this little knife would perform. The model I own features a 1/8″ thick O1 tool steel blade, though there’s also a 3V version available for those looking for more corrosion resistance.
The blade has a sharp 90° spine and comes paired with matte green micarta handles — grippy even when wet. The handle is secured with two pins and a strong chemical bond, and a lanyard hole is included, which is always a welcome touch. The knife comes with a top-tier leather sheath made by JRE Industries.
Specs:
- Overall Length: 16cm / 6.3″
- Blade Length: 7cm / 2.75″
- Handle Length: 9cm / 3.54″
Despite its small footprint, the handle provides a full four-finger grip, making it incredibly comfortable and versatile. Thumb scallops add to the control and allow for confident maneuvering in various grips. This knife was clearly designed for woodworking tasks, and I gave it a proper initiation by putting it through its paces, making a small fire in the backyard.
The Pronghorn did not disappoint. The O1 steel held a solid edge and was easy to touch up in the field. As with all carbon steels, it does require maintenance to ward off rust, but that’s part of the charm. I’ll likely let a natural patina form or may choose to force one — either way, I love how it adds character over time.
For those who prefer less maintenance, the 3V version is a great alternative. But regardless of the steel, you really can’t go wrong with the Pronghorn. It’s the perfect companion for whittling, fire prep, and light bushcraft — whether you’re out in the woods or just tinkering in the backyard.