Artisan Cutlery is a company built on a love for quality knives and a dedication to providing exceptional cutting tools for everyday use and collectors alike. Founded in 2018, Artisan Cutlery has quickly gained a reputation for its innovative designs and use of high-grade materials, carving out a unique niche in the cutlery industry. The company's core philosophy revolves around the belief that a knife is more than just a tool; it's an extension of the user's self. A well-crafted knife can become a trusted companion on the job, at the campsite, or wherever life's adventures take you...

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Founded in 2001 by Mike Stewart in Escanaba, Michigan, Bark River Knives has carved a niche in the knife industry by combining traditional craftsmanship with modern materials. Mike Stewart’s journey in the knife industry began long before the establishment of Bark River Knives. He previously worked for Marble's, another renowned Michigan knife manufacturer, where he honed his skills and developed a deep understanding of knife design and production. This experience laid the groundwork for his future...

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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...

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The roots of the company began in 1866, in Rochester, Pennsylvania, where Edward Binns and Samuel Mason began a small knife-making enterprise under the name Binns & Mason. By October of that year, the firm had been officially chartered, but it quickly became apparent that the company lacked the capital it needed to scale operations. Seeking financial support, the founders turned to investors in Pittsburgh. With their backing, the company was restructured and renamed the Pittsburgh Cutlery Company in October of 1866. Yet even this influx of investment proved insufficient...

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Benchmade was originally founded in 1979 as Bali-Song when Les de Asis began making knives out of a second-story shop in California. Using second-hand equipment, Les de Asis began making custom Bali-Songs with Jody Samson, producing their first Bali-Song, the Model 68. Over the following years, Bali-Song expanded its product line to include folding and fixed-blade knives, changing their name to Pacific Cutlery Corp. Unfortunately, with the expansion of the product line, Les was unable to control the quality of his knives, and Pacific Cutlery closed...

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The Boker story begins in the 17th century with a small hand tool factory under the shadow of a towering chestnut tree. This iconic tree would later become the company's enduring symbol, first appearing as a trademark in 1674. By the 18th century, Boker tools had gained renown for their quality, reaching leading status in Germany and neighboring countries. Driven by the changing political climate and rising demand for weapons, the Boker brothers, Hermann and Robert, ventured into sword production in 1829, producing over 2000 blades a week. Their success paved the way for further diversification, leading to...

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Bradford Knives represents the marriage of passion, precision, and innovation. Its founder, Brad Larkin, has combined a lifetime of respect for fine craftsmanship with technical expertise to create a brand that resonates with enthusiasts, collectors, and practical users alike. The journey of Bradford Knives is rooted in humble beginnings, bold decisions, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Bradford Larkin’s appreciation for knives began at a young age and stayed with him throughout his career. Before founding Bradford Knives...

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The history of Buck Knives is not a straightforward tale of rapid growth or carefully mapped milestones. Instead, it is a winding, deeply personal journey that stretches across more than a century, rooted in craftsmanship, family tradition, and enduring resilience. It begins in 1902 with Hoyt H. Buck, a 13-year-old blacksmith apprentice in Leavenworth, Kansas. While sharpening tools for local farmers, Hoyt grew frustrated that they dulled so quickly. Determined to find a better method, he began experimenting with the tempering process of steel. Using discarded files, Hoyt discovered that uniform heating before quenching...

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W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Company has been a trusted symbol of American craftsmanship for over 130 years, blending tradition, quality, and innovation. From humble beginnings in the late nineteenth century to becoming a beloved name among collectors and outdoorsmen alike, Case knives have carved a lasting place in American history. Before forming W.R. Case & Sons, the brothers had already made a significant mark on the cutlery industry. Around 1886, the four joined with J.B.F. Champlin & Son to establish the Cattaraugus Cutlery Co. Then, in 1889, Jean, John, and...

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Established in 1980 by Lynn C. Thompson in Ventura, California, Cold Steel has emerged as a leading force in the world of knives and edged weapons. The company has been driven by a philosophy focused on strength, sharpness, and reliability, with a mission to create some of the sharpest and toughest knives on the market. One of Cold Steel's key contributions to the knife industry was popularizing the “Americanized” Tanto-style blade in the Western world. Inspired by traditional Japanese swords, this design emphasizes a strong point for better piercing ability...

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Condor Tool & Knife, a name synonymous with quality and durability in the world of outdoor tools, traces its roots back to 1787. This venerable company began as the Gebruder Weyersberg Company in Solingen, Germany, a city renowned for its blade-making craftsmanship. The founders, the Weyersberg brothers, quickly established a reputation for producing high-quality swords, military knives, and agricultural tools, laying the foundation for what would eventually become Condor Tool & Knife. In 1964, the company made a strategic decision to expand its operations...

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CRKT was founded in 1994 in Tualatin, Oregon, by Rod Bremer and Paul Gillespie. From the start, the company was driven by a philosophy of innovation, reliability, and value. Bremer and Gillespi saw an opportunity to create cutting-edge tools that combined exceptional design and functionality at an affordable price. They envisioned a company that would not only produce knives but also introduce innovative solutions to common problems faced by users in various fields, including outdoor recreation, professional work, and everyday carry...

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Dawson Knives began in 1973, when Barry Dawson set up a makeshift workshop in his garage using improvised equipment, including a grinder made from shopping cart wheels. A Navy veteran who served in Vietnam as a salvage diver, Barry returned to the U.S. with a remarkable set of hands-on skills and a determination to build something real and lasting. He started with steels like 5160 and 440C, crafting functional, no-nonsense blades for hunters, outdoorsmen, and collectors. These early knives were quarter-inch thick, bead-blasted, and outfitted with Micarta handles and Kydex sheaths...

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The story of Dead Reckon Knives is one of resilience, precision, and a commitment to craftsmanship. It was founded by former Recon Marine Sean Bernstein, along with Chad Dixon, Neal Birchfield, and Beau Brown. Dead Reckon has quickly made its mark in the knife industry by focusing on reliability and high-performance blades. Sean Bernstein enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2010, passing the selection for the Reconnaissance MOS in 2011. Serving as a Recon Marine shaped Sean's mentality, instilling in him the zero-fail mindset that would later define his knife-making career...

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ESEE Knives originated from a practical understanding of survival needs, rooted in the founders Jeff Randall and Mike Perrin's adventures in the Peruvian Amazon. Their experiences with the Peruvian Air Force's jungle survival school, ESSEL, exposed them to the realities of survival tools and techniques. In 1997, disillusioned with the exaggerated claims of the survival gear market, they launched Randall’s Adventure & Training to offer no-nonsense survival training and gear. As instructors, Randall and Perrin quickly realized the need for dependable survival tools...

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The story of Frost Cutlery begins in 1969 with Jim Frost, who worked shifts at a chemical plant in Tennessee. During his off hours, Jim discovered a passion that would eventually change his life: collecting pocket knives. What began as a casual interest quickly grew into something more serious. He started learning everything he could about knives, from the history of various patterns to the companies that made them. By 1972, Jim decided to turn his hobby into a business. He launched Frost Distributing, a small operation focused on sourcing knives from established manufacturers...

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Gerber Knives was founded in 1939 when Joseph Gerber, the owner of a printing and advertising company, partnered with knifemaker David Murphy to create custom kitchen knives for his clients. Gerber mailed 24 sets of kitchen knives to his clients during the holidays. These knives grew in popularity when catalog retailer Abercrombie & Fitch approached Gerber, requesting more of these knives to sell in their 1939 catalog. With this request, Gerber Legendary Blades, now known as Gerber Gear, was born. After World War II, Joseph’s eldest son, Francis Roman “Ham” Gerber, would...

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Great Eastern Cutlery, headquartered in Titusville, Pennsylvania, stands as one of the few modern knife manufacturers truly committed to preserving traditional American pocket knife craftsmanship. Since its founding in 2006 by industry veteran Bill Howard, the company has quietly earned a reputation as one of the finest makers of classic slipjoint knives in the country. Rather than chasing trends or pursuing mass production, Great Eastern Cutlery has remained focused on small-batch precision, historically accurate patterns, and handmade quality that rivals custom work...

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Hen & Rooster Knives, founded around 1845 in Solingen, Germany, represents a longstanding legacy in cutlery manufacturing. This iconic brand was the vision of Carl Bertram, a poultry business owner who decided to expand his operations into the cutlery industry. Driven by a meticulous dedication to quality and craftsmanship, Bertram established a modest manufacturing facility that would eventually shape the Hen & Rooster legacy. By 1865, the brand adopted the hen and rooster symbol to signify the product’s authenticity and connection to Bertram’s origins...

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Heretic Knives embodies innovation, quality, and a generational passion for crafting exceptional blades. Founded by Anthony Marfione Jr., the company grew from a rich legacy of knife-making established by his father, Anthony Marfione Sr., the founder of Microtech Knives. While Heretic Knives has successfully carved out its own space in the industry, its roots remain deeply connected to the Marfione family’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what a knife can achieve. Anthony Jr.'s journey into knife-making started early. Growing up in a family that lived and...

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Rick Hinderer’s journey into the world of knives began in an unlikely place, a small, 14x18-foot turkey coop. With no running water or heating, this humble setup became the birthplace of what would later become one of the most well-regarded names in tactical knife-making: Hinderer Knives. In the late 1980s, Hinderer started his career by crafting art knives, far removed from the tactical designs he is known for today. These early creations were focused on aesthetics, but his background as a first responder, specifically as a firefighter and EMT, would soon...

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The story of Hogue Inc. starts with Guy Hogue, a Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officer. Dissatisfied with the standard grip on his service revolver, Hogue decided to craft a custom grip that better fit his hand and improved control. This seemingly simple act of personalized comfort soon garnered interest from his fellow officers. Word spread, and before long, Hogue found himself crafting grips for others in the department. The demand became so significant that in 1968, Hogue Inc. was officially born. The company's early success lay in its focus on quality and ergonomics...

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Founded in 2021, Jack Wolf Knives has quickly established itself as a leading brand in the world of modernized traditional slip joints. With over 15 modernized slip joints, four bolster lock knives, and a newly released EDC fixed blade to its name, the company has breathed new life into the traditional knife market. At the heart of this brand is Benjamin Belkin, a man whose innovative vision and dedication to craftsmanship have propelled Jack Wolf Knives to the forefront of the knife industry. Ben Belkin’s journey into the world of knife-making...

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The story of KA-BAR begins in 1894, when at 19, a traveling salesman named Wallace Brown took a bold step and started his own mail-order cutlery business called the Union Razor Company in Little Valley, New York. Soon joined by his brother Emerson, they formed their own cutlery company known as Brown Brothers Razor. However, their venture was short-lived, and the brothers eventually went to work for the Cattaraugus Cutlery Company. In an effort to resurrect their business interests, Wallace Brown purchased the struggling Tidioute Cutlery Company of Tidioute, Pennsylvania...

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In the quiet hills of Seki, Japan, a town long known for its master swordsmiths, young Saijiro Endo began forging a legacy. Born into a region that once armed samurai with katanas, Endo found himself at a historical turning point. The Meiji government’s ban on sword carrying left countless craftsmen without purpose, but for Saijiro, it marked the beginning of a new path. In 1908, at just twenty years old, he opened a tiny workshop to craft folding knives. He worked under oil lamps, slept just a few hours each night, and poured everything he had into the work. At first, he had only a handful...

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Kershaw Knives was founded by Pete Kershaw in 1974 after Kershaw left Gerber Legendary Blades to form his own cutlery company based on his knife designs. To guarantee the quality of his new knives Kershaw began to search for a premier supplier to produce his knives. A partnership was made when Kershaw approached Kai Cutlery of Japan to manufacture his knife designs. Master bladesmith Ichiro Hattori was assigned to create the inaugural batch of Kershaw fixed-blade knives. A task that would establish the brand's reputation for quality and craftsmanship....

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Kizer Knives, established 11 years ago, has the distinction of being one of the pioneering high-end Chinese knife manufacturers to enter the U.S. market. Their entry into the knife industry marked a significant shift, demonstrating the ability of Chinese manufacturers to produce precision-engineered, high-quality knives using premium materials at more competitive price points. Kizer's introduction set a new standard for international knife companies looking to establish a presence in the U.S. Kizer’s inception was driven by a vision to produce knives that...

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Before Knafs was even a concept, Ben Petersen had already made a name for himself in the knife industry. His journey began somewhat unexpectedly in 2011 when he accepted a job creating YouTube content for a knife distribution company. Despite having no deep-rooted passion for knives at the time, he immersed himself in the industry, quickly becoming a familiar face in online knife communities. His authentic engagement and willingness to connect with audiences set the stage for his future endeavors...

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The story of Leatherman is more than just about a multitool; it's a testament to the power of innovation, fueled by frustration and a relentless pursuit of a better solution. In the early 1980s, a young mechanical engineer named Tim Leatherman embarked on a European road trip with his wife Chau. Their trusty Fiat 600, however, proved less reliable than romantic, requiring frequent roadside fixes. Armed with only a scout knife, Leatherman found himself constantly yearning for a more versatile and portable tool. This simple yet defining moment planted the seed that would blossom...

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Lionsteel's origins trace back to a rich history rooted in the artisan stonework of the Maniago region. In the 19th century, chisel workers climbed Mount Jouf, overlooking the town of Maniago in northern Italy, to carve sculptures from native stone, including a distinctive lion sculpture. This stone lion became central to the story of Lionsteel’s founding. Gino Pauletta, Lionsteel’s founder, was inspired by his grandfather’s lion sculpture but, as a child, was afraid of it. This fear led him to cut off the lion's tail, an action that eventually inspired him when...

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L.T. Wright's journey with knives started in the woods of West Virginia, inspired by his father, an avid outdoorsman and hunter. As a child, Wright was captivated by the knives his father used during hunting trips. The allure of these tools was so strong that young Wright would often borrow his father's hunting knives, embarking on adventures with his friends and emulating the daring exploits of fictional heroes like Tarzan. This early exposure to knives ignited a passion that would shape his future. Wright received his first knife, a leather-handled hunter...

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Founded in 1898 by Webster L. Marble, Marble’s Arms & Manufacturing Company, initially called Marble Safety Axe Company, became a pillar in the world of outdoor tools, offering innovative designs that were both functional and rugged. Marble’s products quickly gained a devoted following among hunters, campers, soldiers, and explorers alike. This article explores the life of Webster Marble, the history of his company, and the enduring impact of his designs on the industry. Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on April 23, 1854...

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McNee’s Custom Knives, nestled just outside Vernon, Alabama, is the culmination of a lifelong passion for blades, a tireless work ethic, and a hands-on approach to learning. From humble beginnings to a growing operation, the journey of McNee’s founder is one defined by persistence, craftsmanship, and a commitment to quality that continues to shape every blade that leaves the shop. As a lifelong knife enthusiast, Jonathan McNees can’t remember a time when knives weren’t a central fascination. Childhood memories are filled with trips to small local festivals...

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Medford Knife and Tool, founded in 2010 by Greg Medford, is a company known for producing some of the most robust and durable knives on the market. Based in Phoenix, Arizona, Medford Knives has become synonymous with overbuilt designs, precision craftsmanship, and a no-compromise approach to quality. Over the past decade, the company has evolved from a small operation into a dominant force in the knife industry, with a passionate following of knife enthusiasts, military personnel, and first responders. Greg Medford’s diverse background is...

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The story of Microtech begins in 1993, not in a corporate office, but in the unassuming surroundings of an apartment in Vero Beach, Florida. It was here that Anthony and Susan Marfione, driven by a shared passion for knifemaking, laid the foundation for what would become a leading name in the industry. Anthony, a skilled craftsman with a background in tool and die making, meticulously crafted the very first knife prototypes in their apartment. Their dedication soon outgrew the confines of their living space, prompting them to move operations to a storage shed, marking the first step towards...

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Midgards-Messer, which has rapidly grown to become a renowned name in the knife-making industry, was founded by Dirk Hofmeister in 2017. The company is based in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, and has quickly established itself as a leader in both the design and production of high-quality knives, with a unique emphasis on integrating modern technology with traditional craftsmanship. Dirk Hofmeister's journey into the world of knives began at a young age. Growing up in Tabarz, Thuringian Forest, Hofmeister started collecting knives when he...

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Maniago, a town in Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy, has been a hub for knife manufacturing since the 14th century. Initially, knife production in Maniago was a small-scale, artisanal endeavor. Local craftsmen made knives by hand, often supplementary to their primary agricultural work. Over time, as the demand for quality cutlery grew, these craftsmen began to specialize and organize, laying the groundwork for a burgeoning industry. By the 19th century, the knife-making craft in Maniago had evolved from small, home-based workshops to more organized...

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Ocaso Knives, founded in 2022, has quickly emerged as a distinctive brand in the knife industry, embodying a unique blend of elegance, quality, and innovation. Inspired by the beautiful sunsets of Ojai, California, the name Ocaso, meaning sunset in Spanish, reflects the company's commitment to capturing the timeless beauty and functionality of a well-crafted knife. Under the leadership of its founder, Ric Valdez, Ocaso Knives has made significant strides in creating products that stand out for their...

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Old Timer knives were introduced in 1958 by the Schrade Cutlery Company, a long-established knife manufacturer based in Walden, New York. The Schrade name itself dates back to 1904, when George Schrade and his brothers began developing innovative cutlery, particularly in the realm of automatic knives. In 1946, the company became part of Imperial Knife Associated Companies and was renamed Schrade-Walden Cutlery Co. The first Old Timer model released was the 2OT Barlow-style knife, which debuted in 1959. This model marked the beginning of a line designed to evoke the nostalgia and...

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The story of Opinel knives, a quintessential tool emblematic of French craftsmanship and ingenuity, begins in the picturesque setting of the French Alps, in the small town of Gevoudaz, Savoie. It was there, at the start of the 19th century, that Victor-Amédée Opinel set up his forge, utilizing the local rapid stream, Arvan, to power his tools. Victor-Amédée was skilled in making a variety of blades, including nails, axes, and plow blades, but it was his grandson Joseph Opinel who would carve a lasting legacy into the halls of cutlery history...

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Outdoor Edge Cutlery has grown into a leading name in the world of outdoor tools, with a reputation for quality, innovation, and functionality. David Bloch, the founder of Outdoor Edge, grew up in Paramus, New Jersey before his family relocated to Colorado in 1977. The move sparked his love for the outdoors, with Colorado’s rugged landscape and outdoor culture offering inspiration. Though not from a hunting family, Bloch’s passion for outdoor activities, combined with his engineering background, would become the foundation of his company...

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Puma was founded in 1769 by Johann Wilhelm Lauterjung in Solingen, Germany, a city with cutlery roots nearly as old as the city itself. In its early years, the company operated as a family business, producing general cutlery and tools for local markets. Like many Solingen-based manufacturers, Puma built its reputation through generations of quality-focused craftsmanship, gradually expanding its operations and clientele throughout Germany and Europe. By the mid-20th century, under the leadership of Ernst Lauterjung, the company began refining its focus on outdoor...

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The Pro-Tech journey began in 1999 when founder Dave Wattenberg set out to create knives that would meet the demanding needs of professionals and enthusiasts alike. Drawing inspiration from his background in aerospace engineering, Wattenberg sought to integrate cutting-edge materials and manufacturing techniques into the world of knife making. Based in Artesia, California, Pro-Tech initially focused on producing automatic knives, which were gaining popularity among law enforcement, military personnel, and collectors...

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Reate Knives, founded by David Deng in 2012, has quickly risen to prominence in the knife industry, earning a reputation for producing high-quality, precision-engineered knives. Based in China, Reate has distinguished itself through its dedication to craftsmanship, innovative designs, and the use of premium materials, setting a new standard for production knives. From its inception, Reate Knives aimed to bridge the gap between custom knife craftsmanship and production knife affordability. David Deng, a knife enthusiast and designer, saw an opportunity...

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Smith & Wesson's foray into knife manufacturing began in 1972 when President William Gunn sought to expand the company's product line to include law enforcement and sportsmen's tools. Collaborating with renowned knife designer Blackie Collins, they introduced several fixed-blade designs tailored to public needs. This partnership led to the creation of the Texas Ranger Commemorative Bowie knife in 1973, celebrating the Texas Rangers' 150th anniversary. The success of this knife paved the way for Smith & Wesson's official entry into the knife market in 1975 with the...

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The story of SOG begins in the dense jungles of Vietnam during the 1960s. The company’s name pays homage to a covert special operations unit called the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam – Studies and Observations Group (MACV-SOG). This elite unit conducted highly classified missions, and their survival often depended on their equipment. One of their critical tools was the SOG Bowie knife, designed for versatility and durability in the harshest conditions. Inspired by the legacy of these warriors and their tools, Spencer Frazer...

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In the small town of Peachtree City, Georgia, a unique blend of craftsmanship and passion gave birth to Southern Grind, a knife-making company founded by none other than musician and knife enthusiast Zac Brown. Brown's journey from a passionate hobbyist to the creator of one of the most respected boutique knife brands in the United States is not just a tale of entrepreneurship but also of American ingenuity and dedication. Zac Brown's love for knives isn't just a passing interest; it's a lifelong passion that transitioned into knife-making in the early 2000s...

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Spyderco’s story begins not with knives, but with innovation. Founded in 1976 by Sal and Gail Glesser, Spyderco was initially a company focused on inventing tools designed to make life easier. One of their earliest successes was the “Portable Hand,” a spider-shaped, multi-legged apparatus designed to assist jewelers and hobbyists by holding small parts in place for hands-free work. While this invention would later inspire the company’s spider-themed logo, the name Spyderco had a different origin. Sal Glesser, a fan of high-performance sports cars, had noticed that many of them...

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Suprlativ Knives was founded by Enrique Peña, Jared Oeser, and Javi Garcia, three well-respected names in the custom knife community. Each had already developed a distinct reputation before deciding to work together. Rather than forming a loose collaboration or simply sharing branding, they built Suprlativ as a fully integrated partnership where all decisions and designs are made collectively. The goal from the beginning was to create high-end knives that combine their individual strengths while maintaining tight control over quality and finish. The company’s working structure...

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