Ian Pratt Memory Knives

(a slightly different view of the handles)

Photos by Maryellen Pratt.

Ian Pratt Knife for Jeremiah David Browning

This small antler handled rifleman’s knife was commissioned to be built by Ian Pratt for Jeremiah David Browning. Jeremiah (better known as Jake) Browning received this knife on his 9th birthday (November 7, 2009) from his grandfather, H. David Wright.

The forged blade with Ian’s touchmark is handled with deer antler with a silver pommel cap engraved with “JDB”. The guard displays two silver hearts and is likewise engraved with the Jeremiah’s birthday date, “Nov. 7, 09 AD”. Ian Pratt showed his natural creative ability in making this fitting present for a fine young frontiersman coming of age.

Just what I wanted.

Copy and photos by H. David Wright.

Ian Pratt Rifle and Maryellen Pratt Bag with Tim Crosby Horn for Alan Hoeweler

It's hard for me to come up with a description for the rifle, definitely not a copy of anything. There are some elements from originals that I hoped to pull together in a way that made sense.

Maryellen's made a nice, ticking lined double bag out of goat hide with a cow hide strap and forged iron buckle. The banded horn with a double screw tip was made by Tim Crosby and is based on an original horn. I made the other items that go with the set - knife blade was forged from a piece cut from an old file, brass adjustable powder measure and chain ( still don't have a lathe, I am declaring a moratorium on adjustable measures for a while, takes me forever to turn one out without a lathe), and a tow worm to fit .52 cal.   

Copy by Ian Pratt and photos by Maryellen Pratt. 

The cabin is in the first shot is Joe Seabolt's, he remembers it being used as a corn crib on the family farm when he grew up. It was originally built shortly after the civil war. Joe has re built it at his place to use as a work shop.

Tomahawk and Carrier Made by Frank House, Ian Pratt and Joe Seabolt – Made and Donated for the 2010 CLA Live Auction

Hand made by Frank House, Joe Seabolt and Ian Pratt, the tomahawk is based on an original piece signed " I Fraser", thought to have been made in the mid 1700's by blacksmith Jacob Fraser. Like the original, this tomahawk was forged by hand from wrought iron and is fitted with an octagonal removable bowl forged from a cut off section of an iron rifle barrel. 

The piece is decorated in a style featuring details that are unique yet presented in a manner that maintains a traditional feel. The hand filed moldings on the head and bowl capture the spirit of the original, and the addition of coin silver inlays, end cap and mouthpiece further bring the piece to life. The blade, bowl and all silver furnishings have been tastefully engraved, the piece has overall been given a warm, well worn finish, and finally the touchmarks of all three makers have been struck in silver and inlaid. The hand drilled curly maple haft sets off the piece and at the same time makes it practical if one desires to smoke it.

A handmade leather carrier with shoulder strap, aged to reflect the character of the tomahawk, accompanies the piece.

The CLA Live Auction will be on Friday, August 20th at 4:00 PM.

Copy and photos supplied by David Wright.