Get Your Shuck On!

I first met Ron Hoffman, founder of Compassionate Care ALS (CCALS), many years ago when he was helping my friend Gordon Heald. Ron has spent years putting his heart and soul into helping people and families dealing with ALS, so I’m delighted to donate these two shuckers to Shuck ALS.

I have donated two one-of-a-kind oyster shuckers, each hand-crafted in my extensive workshop — and by “extensive,” I mean my two-car garage, where I have spent an unreasonable number of hours making sharp things out of expensive metal.

The first is dressed to impress: stainless-steel Damascus, brass with stainless-steel bolsters, brass rivets, and a gorgeous African Blackwood handle.

The second is a little more understated but every bit as capable: stainless-steel Damascus, stainless-steel bolster and rivets, and another beautiful African Blackwood handle.

Both are handmade, one-of-a-kind, and built to be held firmly and put to work.

And these shuckers aren't just pretty faces.

They know how to get into a tight spot.

Oysters can be stubborn. They can be tight. They can put up a little resistance. But with the right technique, a little persistence, and one of these beauties in your hand… they eventually open up and may even stand in line for a good shuck… I can't promise the oysters will enjoy the experience, but you certainly will.

Once you get the hang of it, you'll find yourself looking for more opportunities to put your shucker to work.

And let's face it — there's nothing more satisfying than a beautiful piece of wood in your hand, a sharp piece of Damascus steel in front of you, and a dozen oysters waiting to surrender.

So bid generously.

Take one home.

Give it a good grip, show those oysters who's boss, and get your shuck on!

And remember, every dollar raised goes toward supporting Compassionate Care ALS and the incredible work Ron and his organization do for people and families living with ALS.

So come on, folks…

Don't be shy.

Get your hands on some good wood.

Get a little dirty.

And SHUCK for a good cause!

Happy Shucking!