We were wrapping things up at the end of the bowl carving class. Joel Paul and I were talking about bowls and tools when he handed me this:

I had no idea what it was. Heavy. A fancy plumb bob? Joel, with his typical enthusiasm, explained that it was a Swedish barrel knife and proceeded to reveal its secrets.

The knife was made by P. Holmberg in Eskilstuna, Sweden.  Holmberg made these from 1900 to 1950. The slӧyd blade is ingeniously housed in the handle, ready for carrying in a pocket.  By depressing a spring, the brass housing containing the blade can be retracted.  The blade is then flipped forward and the whole assembly pushed through the handle.  The same spring locks the blade in place, ready for carving.  I’ve put together a photo slide show below showing the procedure.

When Joel showed me, it was like a magic show.  Then he explained it was a gift for me. 

Speechless.  I have treasured it and have come to know that this sort of act is typical of Joel.

A few days ago, Joel was helping a neighbor fell a tree.  Things went wrong and Joel was pinned under the tree.  He has been in the hospital since then with extensive and serious injuries.  Joel has a long road ahead, but is feeling the support of his friends, family, and community.  If you can offer any financial support, a gofundme has been set up to help Joel. It will be deeply appreciated.