I became interested in everything with a sharp edge at a young age. I started throwing papers and playing stretch and chicken (I know I am dating myself here) around the age of eight. As I earned money from chores or odd jobs, I started buying knives that I thought were “cool.” Growing up in the ’70s and ’80s meant butterfly knives (yeah, I cut a few knuckles), throwing stars (yep, I thought I was a ninja), throwing knives, lock back knives, and we cannot forget about the trusty old buck knives being the thing.
I started up my collection and fell in love with almost every sharp piece of steel I could get my hands on. When I was young, a knife collection did not have the meaning as it does today. I used and abused almost every knife I had. In my mind, every knife was meant to be thrown at a target of some kind. A tree, can, snakes, or just to simply see how far it could be thrown and stuck were all fair game. Now I cringe when I see a knife being misused or in a manner that will damage the blade.
After graduating from high school, I enlisted in the Army. After a couple years of getting training out of the way, I spent the next 6 years in the reserves. I also worked a short stint in Law enforcement. Then it happened, I met this extraordinarily gorgeous & funny lady. I made the command decision that she needed an equally awesome husband and asked her to be my better half.
I was still looking for the adrenaline rush, and she encouraged me to look into the Fire Service. Back to school and training, I went. I was hired in the late ’90s and have spent the last 20-plus years as a First Responder. I still work full-time in the Fire Service, but having 20 days a month off gives me plenty of time to focus on producing custom & handmade knives. I aim to make high-quality knives that are fully functional, look great, and are comfortable in your hand.
A few years back, a buddy of mine started up a tactical folder company, Sniper Bladeworks. I watched as he developed the business with great interest. We were kindred spirits, having come from a Law Enforcement background and having a love for all things sharp. For the longest time, I was scared I would mess up if I tried making knives. Then one day, I got tired of doubting my skills and decided to at least give it a try. And as they say, “the rest is history.” Like all of us, I have grown and learned from my mistakes along the way. But most importantly, I have also learned what works.
Thank you for taking the time to visit my website! I hope you will give me the opportunity to work at building an amazingly sharp (pun intended) looking knife that fits your needs.
