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Bear & Son Cutlery
History of Bear & Son Cutlery
Ken Griffey, the current president of Bear & Son, began his journey in the world of knives in 1976. Back then, he wasn't running his own company; he was honing his skills at Parker Cutlery, a Tennessee distributor. A decade later, in 1986, Parker USA established a production facility in Jacksonville, Alabama, a town already synonymous with American knifemaking due to the presence of W.R. Case & Sons. This Alabama plant, initially known as Parker Edwards, was a sister company to W.R. Case, further solidifying Jacksonville's position as a center for American cutlery.
The year 1991 marked a turning point for Ken Griffey and the future of Bear & Son. Seizing a unique opportunity, Griffey, along with two partners, acquired the Parker Edwards facility. This acquisition wasn't just about acquiring a building; it was about laying the foundation for a new venture – Bear MGC Cutlery. While 1991 marks the official birth of Bear MGC, it's important to recognize the continuity with Griffey's experience at Parker Cutlery. The knowledge and passion for knives he gained during those years became the cornerstone of Bear MGC.
- Ken Griffey's journey began in 1976 while working at Parker Cutlery in Tennessee
- In 1986, Parker Cutlery established Parker Edwards production facility in Jacksonville, Alabama
- Parker Edwards was a sister company to W.R. Case
- In 1991, Ken Girffey and two partners purchased the Parker Edwards facility, establishing Bear MGC Cutlery
- Became Benchmade in 1988 to represent marriage of manufactured and custom knives.
From the very beginning, Bear MGC distinguished itself from competitors through its unwavering commitment to quality and unique production philosophy. Unlike many companies that source parts from various suppliers and simply assemble the final product, Bear MGC embraced a self-contained approach. This meant building their own blanking dies, the tools used to shape the raw steel into the initial knife blade form. Every step that followed, from heat treating the steel for optimal strength and flexibility to grinding the blade for its specific purpose, was meticulously handled in-house. Assembly and, most importantly, hand-finishing were also completed within their facility. This dedication to in-house production allowed Bear MGC to maintain strict quality control and ensure each knife possessed a distinctive balance of functionality and aesthetics that resonated with customers.
The story of Bear MGC took an interesting turn in 1999 when Swiss Army Brand Inc. (SABI), recognizing the company's potential, acquired Bear MGC. Griffey, however, remained on board, continuing to manage the production facility for SABI. This period would allow Griffey to refine his production processes and further hone his business acumen.
The entrepreneurial spirit of Ken Griffey wouldn't be contained for long. In 2004, after five years under SABI's ownership, Griffey saw an opportunity to repurchase the company and the factory. This marked a true homecoming for Bear MGC. In this new chapter, Griffey enlisted the help of his son, bringing a fresh perspective and youthful energy to the company. Together, they restarted their independent knife-making journey, this time under the official name Bear & Son Cutlery.
- Bear MGC was purchased by Swiss Army Brand Inc. (SABI) in 1999
- Griffey would go on to purchase Bear MGC 5 years later establishing Bear & Son Cutlery
Since its humble beginnings as Bear MGC, Bear & Son Cutlery has grown significantly. The company has expanded its product line, offering a wider variety of knives to suit diverse needs, from hunting and outdoor enthusiasts to professional chefs. They've also embraced technological advancements to streamline certain aspects of production while maintaining their core commitment to in-house manufacturing and hand-finishing.
In today's globalized market, where many knife companies outsource production to reduce costs, Bear & Son stands firm in its dedication to American manufacturing. They source their materials domestically whenever possible, ensuring not only quality control but also supporting the American economy. This commitment resonates with a growing segment of consumers who value American-made products and the jobs they create.
Written by Drew Clifton
What to Buy
The Bear Ops Double Clutch V is a high-performance automatic knife featuring a robust 5.13" closed length and a 3.5" D2 steel tanto blade with a black finish. Designed for durability and efficiency, it includes a black aircraft aluminum handle and offers a double-clutch automatic action. This knife is equipped with a tip-down pocket clip and a lanyard hole, making it a practical choice for everyday carry. Manufactured in the USA, it combines functionality with sleek aesthetics, ideal for both practical use and collection.
The Bear & Son Cocobolo Balisong is an elegant and functional knife, featuring a 3.5-inch clip-point blade crafted from 440 stainless steel with a black powder-coated finish. Its handles are made from genuine cocobolo wood, providing a distinctive appearance complemented by nickel silver bolsters. This knife measures 5 inches when closed and weighs 5 ounces, offering a solid yet manageable feel. Equipped with a latch lock for safety, it's proudly manufactured in the USA. This balisong is ideal for both collectors and enthusiasts seeking a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern functionality.
The Bear & Son Maroon Bone Stag Stockman is an American-made folding knife featuring a trio of blades—clip point, Sheepsfoot, and spey—all crafted from 1095 carbon steel. This knife boasts handles made from genuine maroon stag bone, complemented by nickel-silver bolsters, pins, and liners. Its compact design closes to 3.87 inches and weighs 2.5 ounces, making it both portable and practical. Ideal for everyday use, this knife combines traditional craftsmanship with durable materials, suitable for collectors and practical users alike. Proudly manufactured in the USA, it reflects the quality and heritage of Bear & Son Cutlery.
Expert Reviewed
T.C. Barnette
T.C. Barnette is a dynamic media personality and the esteemed spokesperson for SMKW (Smoky Mountain Knife Works), where his passion for knives intersects with his captivating on-screen presence. With a magnetic charisma and deep expertise in cutlery, T.C. has become a beloved figure in the knife community.