Short answer: scrimshaw is engraved artwork scratched into bone, horn or antler and filled with ink. On a pocket knife it turns the handle into a small piece of folk art. Today it is done on materials like camel bone and horn rather than ivory. A scrimshaw Damascus pocket knife at Damascus1 costs $49.99 to $69.99 as of November 9, 2026.
Last updated November 9, 2026. Prices and stock were checked on our store that day and can change; the product page always shows the current price.
What scrimshaw is
Scrimshaw began with 18th and 19th century whalers who carved pictures into whale bone and teeth during long voyages. The artist scratches fine lines into the surface and rubs ink into them so the design shows. Modern scrimshaw uses legal materials such as bone, horn and antler; trade in elephant ivory is heavily restricted in the United States and many other countries.
Scrimshaw handle materials compared
| Material | Look | Care |
|---|---|---|
| Camel bone | Smooth, pale surface that shows fine lines clearly | Keep dry; avoid soaking |
| Ram horn | Darker, natural texture | Keep away from heat and long sun exposure |
| Deer (stag) antler | Rugged natural texture | Wipe clean; avoid soaking |
| Wood with scrimshaw inlay | Wood grain with an engraved accent | Wipe clean; a little wood oil now and then |
How to care for a scrimshaw knife
- Keep it out of strong sunlight for long periods, which can fade ink over time.
- Wipe the handle with a soft, dry cloth; don't use solvents or harsh cleaners on the artwork.
- Never soak the knife or put it in a dishwasher.
- Wipe and lightly oil the Damascus blade, as with any carbon steel knife. See our folding knife care guide.
Our scrimshaw Damascus pocket knives and live prices
- Camel Bone Scrimshaw Damascus Pocket Knife, 7.6 in.: $49.99
- Ram Horn Scrimshaw Damascus Pocket Knife, 7.6 in.: $59.99
- Deer Antler Scrimshaw Damascus Pocket Knife, 7.6 in.: $59
- Blue Wood Scrimshaw Damascus Pocket Knife, 7.6 in.: $59
- Rose Wood Scrimshaw Damascus Pocket Knife, 7.5 in.: $69.99
Each listing's photos show the design on that knife. See them all in scrimshaw pocket knives, or compare handles in our handle materials guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is a scrimshaw knife?
A scrimshaw knife has a handle decorated with scrimshaw: fine pictures scratched into bone, horn or antler and filled with ink so the design stands out.
Is scrimshaw made from ivory?
Historically it was done on whale bone and ivory. Today it is done on legal materials such as camel bone, horn and antler, because trade in elephant ivory is heavily restricted in the United States and many other countries.
Does scrimshaw fade?
The ink can fade with long exposure to strong sunlight. Store the knife out of direct sun and clean the handle with a dry cloth, not solvents.
How much does a scrimshaw pocket knife cost?
Scrimshaw Damascus pocket knives at Damascus1 cost $49.99 to $69.99 as of November 9, 2026. Collector pieces from individual artists can cost much more.
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