La Grotte du Loup – Randall Model 3 style, stainless steel blade, brass, deer antler, and leather

This knife, customized by La Grotte du Loup, combines a vintage hunting-style blade with a handle that tastefully blends deer antler, leather washers, and brass. Its slender profile and upturned tip evoke the lines of the Randall Model 3, with a warm, inviting look provided by the natural materials of the handle.

A blade presumed to be of Italian origin:
An old advertisement for a comparable model describes these knives as Italian-made knives imported by G.G. Co., sold during the Vietnam War era, and inspired by the Randall Model 3. This provides a clue as to the origin of the blade used here.

However, the comparison specimen bears the marking “Rostfrei,” whereas this blade is stamped “INOX.” We therefore maintain a presumed Italian attribution, without presenting its date or origin as definitively established. Nor is there any evidence to confirm that this knife was used in Vietnam.

A custom handle made of deer antler, leather, and brass:
The 18-cm blade features a long back bevel and a polished finish. Fine scratches and a few isolated marks remain visible on its surfaces, reflecting its current condition.

The central portion of the handle is crafted from heavily sanded deer antler, revealing a cream hue and natural brown markings. Finger indentations provide texture to the grip. Dark leather rings frame the deer antler and create a contrasting transition to the metal fittings.

The brass guard and pommel feature faceted surfaces, whose reflections highlight the customization work. The knife measures 29.5 cm in total and weighs 330 g.

The set comes with a brown leather sheath custom-made by La Grotte du Loup. Its light-colored stitching, decorative edging, and snap-button retention tab complement the knife’s traditional aesthetic. A belt loop allows it to be worn on the belt.

Technical specifications of the La Grotte du Loup fixed-blade knife:

Customization and assembly: La Grotte du Loup
Blade profile inspiration: Randall Model 3
Blade origin: presumed to be Italian-made, identified by comparison
Blade length: 18.0 cm
Overall length: 29.5 cm
Steel: stainless steel, grade unidentified
Blade marking: INOX
Blade thickness: 5.5 mm
Profile: raised tip with long counter-bevel
Blade finish: polished, with visible marks
Handle: shaped deer antler with finger indentations
Spacers: leather washers
Guard: carved brass
Pommel: hand-hammered brass
Knife weight: 330 g
Sheath: custom-made brown leather, decorated, with belt loop and snap closure

Tellknives Review:
We appreciate this blend of a traditionally designed blade and a custom assembly featuring carefully selected materials. The light-colored stag horn, dark leather, and gold-tone accents come together to create a balanced ensemble with a striking visual presence. It feels truly comfortable in the hand, revealing the finesse of the craftsmanship.

The connection to older Italian models inspired by the Randall Model 3 adds an interesting context. The appeal of this piece lies primarily in its silhouette, its sculpted handle, and the craftsmanship of La Grotte du Loup, complemented by a sheath made specifically for it.