
Handmade Rugged Cowboy Knives - Belt Western Sheaths
Discover authentic Western cowboy knives handcrafted in the USA at KBS Knives Store. Our custom ranch knives feature premium steel blades with genuine belt leather sheaths designed for the working cowboy. Each handmade knife is built for durability on the ranch while maintaining traditional Western styling. From belt carry options to personalized engravings, shop our collection of American-made cowboy knives that honor the frontier spirit with modern craftsmanship and reliability.


Heritage Notes
Make it yours—add a personalized touch to your knife today
Frequently Asked Questions About Cowboy Knives
A cowboy knife is a traditional, rugged blade designed for the needs of ranchers, cowhands, and outdoorsmen. It often features a fixed blade or folding design with a strong tang, durable handle materials like bone, wood, or horn, and a sturdy sheath for belt carry. Cowboy knives are built for both utility and style, making them a functional tool and a piece of Western heritage.
Cowboy knives come in several styles:
Bowie Knives – Large blades with a clip point, perfect for heavy-duty cutting.
Skinning Knives– Shorter, curved blades for processing game.
Folding Pocket Knives– Compact for everyday carry.
Bull Cutter Knives– Tough, versatile blades for daily chores.
Decorative & Engraved Cowboy Knives– Ideal for gifting or collection.
They serve multiple purposes, including:
- Cutting rope, leather, and feed bags
Skinning and processing game
Ranch chores and general farm work
Outdoor survival tasks
Everyday carry for quick utility needs
Cowboy knives gained popularity in the mid-to-late 1800s, during the American frontier era. They were essential tools for cattle drives, hunting, and general ranch work. The Bowie knife, in particular, became iconic among cowboys due to its strength and versatility.
Typical features include:
- Strong Blade Steel – Often Damascus, carbon steel, or stainless steel.
- Full Tang or Sturdy Folding
Mechanism – Ensures durability. - Ergonomic Handle – Made from bone, horn, or wood for comfort and grip.
- Quality Sheath – Leather sheaths designed for different carry styles.
- Sharp, Reliable Edge – Built for heavy use in the field.
Damascus steel is made by layering and forging different steels, creating stunning patterns like twist, raindrop, and ladder. It offers excellent edge retention, toughness, and a balance between hardness and flexibility, making it perfect for collectors and performance knives. Rasp file steel comes from repurposed farrier’s rasps, made of high-carbon tool steel, known for incredible strength and sharpness. It often retains a rugged, textured look from its rasp origins, giving it an authentic Western, working-cowboy style. Damascus stands out for beauty and versatility, while rasp file steel shines in heavy-use ranch and cowboy knives. Both require oiling to prevent rust, but each delivers unique character and performance.
- Cross Draw – Worn across the body for quick, easy access.
- Pancake – A wide, secure leather sheath that hugs the belt.
- Horizontal Carry – Blade carried parallel to the belt for comfort.
- Vertical Carry – Traditional style with blade hanging straight down.
- Personalized Sheath – Custom engraved or stamped with names, brands, or designs.
Our typical delivery time is 7–10 business days for standard orders. Custom or engraved knives may take slightly longer, depending on design complexity and current order volume.
Yes! We offer free engraving on most knives. Simply leave your engraving request in the order notes at checkout, or contact us directly after placing your order to confirm details. Personalization can include names, initials, dates, or small symbols, making your cowboy knife a unique keepsake.
Cowboy Knife Care Note
To keep your cowboy knife performing at its best, always clean and dry the blade after each use. Lightly oil the blade and moving parts (for folding knives) to prevent rust—especially with high-carbon or Damascus steel. Store in a dry place and avoid prolonged storage in the sheath to prevent moisture buildup. For leather sheaths, apply leather conditioner periodically to maintain flexibility and durability.
Contact Us:
Have questions or need assistance? We’re here to help! Reach out anytime.
Email: info@kbsknivesstore.com
Call or Text: +1 917-933-1004