Black Olive Wood French Trade Knife #408

Handcrafted by GreBec Knives, the Black Olive Wood French Trade Knife #408 is a versatile kitchen and utility knife inspired by 18th-century French trade knives—rugged, reliable tools that served early American households, fur traders, and frontiersmen. Part of our exclusive Florida Wood Series, this knife features sustainably sourced, stabilized Florida Black Olive Wood (Terminalia buceras) from a downed South Florida tree, air-dried for years to ensure lasting stability and beauty. Home cooks and market shoppers love it—it sells out fast at every display thanks to its heirloom quality, low-maintenance appeal over raw woods, and outstanding performance.

Measuring 9 3/4″ overall with a 5 1/2″ drop-point blade, the Black Olive Wood Trade Knife excels at slicing vegetables, carving meats, and everyday prep. Its finely honed convex grind delivers excellent edge retention and effortless cutting. The full-tang blade is crafted from 1095 high-carbon steel and finished with an antiqued patina that develops character over time while offering added corrosion resistance.

The handle showcases striking figured grain in warm olive-brown tones accented by natural grey-black streaks.  These variations that make each knife truly one of a kind. Secured with mild steel pins, the stabilized Black Olive Wood offers exceptional hardness, density, and rot resistance for lifelong durability in the kitchen.

Optional Custom Leather Sheath

Upgrade with a handcrafted pouch sheath made from vegetable-tanned leather, hand-cut and dyed with our house-brewed Vinegaroon or Oak Bark dye. Each sheath is hand-stitched with heavy linen thread, then beeswax-sealed for added water resistance.

Care & Maintenance

As with all high-carbon steel blades, hand-wash promptly, dry thoroughly.  Before storing, apply a light coat of food-safe oil or Wiseman Axe & Knife Wax. The antiqued patina will continue to deepen with use, enhancing protection and character. Store in a dry place. Visit our Knife Care page for full care instructions.

Specifications

• Overall Length: 9 3/4″
• Weight: 4 oz
• Blade Length: 5 1/2″
• Blade Width: 1″
• Blade Thickness: 3/32″
• Blade Style: Drop Point
• Blade Finish: Antiqued
• Blade Material: 1095 High Carbon Steel
• Handle Material: Stabilized Florida Black Olive Wood with mild steel pins
• Sheath Options: Custom veg-tanned leather, dyed with Black Vinegaroon or Brown Oak Bark dye