The Blades
My knives are made with traditional high carbon or carbon tool steels. I use these steels because I generally prefer them to stainless steels. This is frequently a major point of contention among blade aficionados, each arguing their own position with a ridiculous degree of passion. Simple carbon tool steels take a keen edge easily, they’re tough, and in my opinion feel alive in the hand when used. These knives are prone to rust if not properly cared for, and will develop a natural protective patina over time. Around the mid 20th century simple carbon steels were largely replaced in the kitchen and field by low maintenance stainless steels. This change was largely driven by clever marketing, placing greater emphasis on corrosion resistance and zero maintenance while omitting substantial cost to performance. Despite the required maintenance and attention, simple carbon steels have lasted generations in every part of the world and for every use from butcher shops, to chisels, to bayonets. There are other great steels used to make knives, and stainless steels certainly can be among them. I’m sure one day I’ll try my hand at more sophisticated alloys, though I think the simple carbon steels will always have a place in my rotation.
The Sheaths
I make both Leather and Kydex sheaths.
Leather
Leather is a tried and true way to carry a knife. Leather sheaths can last a lifetime and are generally comfortable to wear and quiet when drawing or sheathing your blade. I generally use 7-9 ounce leather with 3 to 5 layers depending upon style and necessity. All sheaths are treated for water resistance and longevity. The method of treatment varies depending upon the desired end product. Deep carry fold over sheaths are my preference for many belt knives. They afford excellent protection to the knife while keeping it easily at hand.
Kydex
Kydex (or variations thereof) is an excellent way to carry hard use knives and firearms. Polymer sheaths can be made to permit carry in virtually any position and can frequently be configured for multiple carry options. Polymers are tough, waterproof, and with customized retention, your tool is easy to access and replace. Kydex is a pure polymer and alone will not scratch the tools they house. However, those accustomed to using polymer sheaths or holsters are well aware of its tendency to scratch with the introduction of even minute dust between the polymer and the tool. In fact, polymer carry systems can create rather significant gouges if larger particles become lodged within. Polymer sheaths and holsters have grown in popularity despite this, given their many benefits. To mitigate the problems polymers can cause I create descending layers of separation between the knife and the sheath. Each sheath is created so that the only points of contact are at the tip of the knife and the shoulders of the handle where retention is created. Between those two points the knife blade is suspended within the sheath. The space not only helps to prevent scratching but also makes for a smoother draw and replacement of the knife. Scratches will still occur, especially if dirt or mud is introduced into the sheath. Do not be dismayed. I make tools intended to be used. Wash your sheath or blow it out with an air compressor when time permits, and carry on. If the thought of some minor scratches on your knife makes you shudder, you’ll want to go with a leather sheath, and consider leaving the knife on your dresser rather than actually ever using it, panzy (just kidding).
The Warranty
Unless otherwise stated, all the products I make come with a lifetime warranty against defects in materials and craftsmanship. Should you have any problems with the performance of the item you purchased please contact me via email. The item will need to be returned for inspection (user pays the cost of shipping). After receiving the item I will contact you to confer a suitable replacement. I have a personal investment in everything I make, and its important to me that those who use my knives are satisfied with their performance.
Handmade vs Production Cutlery
The directors of any major knife making facility are always weighing the cost of production against the quality of their final product and possible profit margins. This is normal, and prudent, for large scale manufacturers of virtually all products who are seeking to maximize their profit margins. This generally means that production cutlery facilities will choose the means of production that requires the least initial investment, cost of materials, consumables, and most importantly human expertise and skill. The cost of human expertise/skill to a company can't be over emphasized. Not only does it cost a lot of money, its also hard to find, and creates a dangerous bottle neck in production when one of these skilled craftsmen retire/fall ill/etc. In addition, large scale producers will also choose the production methods resulting in the fewest number of defects or "throw aways". The sneaky part of this is in the marketing, and because what is easy for one manufacturer is generally easier for the others as well, a type of marketing collaboration against the public develops. For example, the trend for some time now has been on "bomb proof" unbreakable knives, sold to the consumer with romanticized images of one man with one tool surviving some kind of zombie apocalypse. Thick blades tapering to thick edges require fewer consumables, less expertise, and result in reduced throw aways following heat treatment. Don't misunderstand, we all know the zombie apocalypse is inevitable and there is a place for knives of this type but not to the extent that it has flooded the market. This mindset and marketing scheme extends to every aspect of knife making and design.
As a sole craftsman I can't compete with mass production facilities and fortunately, I don't have to. I am free to pursue "the better". I am in constant search of the better; materials, heat treatment, contours, construction, finishes, etc., with nearly reckless disregard for my personal cost in blood, sweat and time. This is why handmade artifacts are quite costly relative to their mass produced counterparts. Some people will see an exquisitely crafted Bowie knife listed for several hundred dollars and wonder why it costs so much. I'll see the same knife, with its perfectly tapered blade and ghostly hamon, and wonder how it was made for so little. Its a risky venture really, but its hard to put a price tag on pride.