I've been reading everyone's great comments and appreciate all the input. After looking at the many different options, and consulting with my daughter in law, narrowed down the choice to blades witch are Damascus Steel. Since I'm a metallurgist (now retired) I did more reading, and learned that all knives sold as "Damascus" are not the same, and that there are many cheap imitations especially on Amazon. I finally
I landed on a Knife store.
"Knife Depot"- they have a good selection and we're even offering Labor Day specials. I settled on two different offerings, both branded as " White Deer". One is a "skinner" , limited edition with Rosewood & Olive-Wood handle. Other is described as " hunting knife" with a Buffalo Horn handle.
There were many other options, some really ecsqusite Bowie knives , and others are folders.
The prices are all over the place, custom made , made in USA are highest, those were not in my price range.
Before placing order I sent descriptions of both to daughter in law and she confirmed it was just what he would enjoy.
I've learned a great deal from this adventure, even thinking I might collect a few for myself.
Just what I need besides my fleet of airplanes, lol.