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...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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...

 "...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

The Buck legacy began in 1902 when Hoyt H. Buck, a 13-year-old Kansas blacksmith apprentice, developed a new method to heat-treat steel for increased edge retention. Buck began making his first knives later that same year in Mountain Home, Idaho, using old file blades as his raw material, and individually stamping the letters BUCK onto every blade. His dedication to his country and knife-making was greatly appreciated during WWII, after hearing that the government...

"...Read More"

The story of Case knives begins in 1889, when four brothers William Russell (W.R.), Jean, John, and Andrew Case, began selling handcrafted knives from the back of a wagon in small upstate New York villages and towns. The brothers were skilled craftsmen, and their knives quickly gained a reputation for quality and durability. In 1896, the brothers incorporated their business as the Case Brothers Cutlery Company, four years later building their factory in Little Valley, New York. Wanting to leave a trademark of their quality, the brothers began to use their signature XX mark which has become well-known throughout the world...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

The journey began in 1969 when Jim Frost, a shift worker at a chemical plant, developed a fascination with collecting pocket knives. This hobby quickly blossomed into a full-time pursuit, leading him to establish "Frost Distributing" in 1972. Initially, Jim acted as a middleman, sourcing knives from established manufacturers and selling them through flea markets and catalogs. In 1976, a partnership with knife industry legend James F. Parker saw the birth of Parker-Frost Cutlery. While short-lived, it proved invaluable, exposing Jim to the intricacies of knife design and manufacturing. By 1978, armed with knowledge and experience, Jim took the bold step of launching...

 "...Read More"

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 take over the business as company...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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. Hogue grips, initially crafted from wood, offered a superior...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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 in January 1902. The company’s assets were transferred to...

"...Read More"

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. These early models of knives were known as the “Kershaw Hunters” as each one underwent...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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 into the Leatherman Tool Group, forever changing the way...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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 a dedicated production facility...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

Though the Old Timer brand itself only dates back to 1958, this humble story begins in 1904 in Walden, New York, with the founding of the Schrade Cutlery Company by George Schrade. Schrade knives, known for their quality and craftsmanship quickly gained a loyal following.

In 1946, the Schrade company merged with the Imperial Knife Associated Companies, forming the now iconic Imperial Schrade Corp. This merger brought together three legacy brands, The Ulster Knife Company, Imperial Knife Company, and Schrade...

"....Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

Smoky Mountain Knife Works, located in Sevierville, Tennessee, is renowned as the world's largest knife store. It started in the early 1970s when our company’s founders, Kevin Pipes, and John Parker began to sell knives out of the back of their pickup trucks. Spending almost a decade building relationships with customers and vendors before establishing Smoky Mountain Knife Works in 1978. Smoky Mountain Knife Works rapidly outgrew its first two stores...

"...Read More"

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...

"...Read More"

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. This enthusiasm laid the foundation for Southern Grind...

"...Read More"

Sal Glesser and his wife Gail founded Spyderco in Golden, Colorado in 1976. Sal drew inspiration for the brand's name from high-performance sports cars that often featured “Spyder” in their names. This led to the creation of Spyderco, a name meant to symbolize the high-performance nature of their cutting tools. Syderco’s first product, introduced later the same year, was the Tri-Angle sharp maker, a versatile sharpening tool that could be mastered by anyone.

During the early days of Spyderco, Sal, and Gail converted an old bread delivery truck into a motorhome, traveling to shows to showcase their products...

"...Read More"

TOPS Knives, a renowned name in the knife industry, has been a symbol of excellence, durability, and craftsmanship since its inception. The company was founded in 1998 in Eastern Idaho, USA, by a group of twelve original founders, who were military veterans, law enforcement officers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Their collective experience and passion for high-quality, dependable knives drove them to establish a brand that would meet the rigorous demands of professionals and outdoor adventurers alike. The vision behind TOPS Knives was to create...

"...Read More"

Renowned for their Swiss Army Knives, Victorinox has a storied history that spans over a century. The brand's commitment to quality, functionality, and innovation has solidified its place as a global icon in the knife industry. The story of Victorinox begins in 1884 when Karl Elsener I opened a cutlery workshop in Ibach, Switzerland. Elsener's vision was to create a versatile and reliable knife that could serve multiple purposes, embodying the essence of Swiss craftsmanship. In 1891 Elsener would establish the Association of Swiss Master Cutlers, a collection of many small workshops...

"...Read More"

Founded in 2000 by Joe Chung, a middle school teacher, WE Knife Co., Ltd. started its journey as an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for various knife brands. With a background in mechanical engineering, Joe Chung aimed to create high-quality knives that combined functionality with aesthetic appeal. Initially focusing on the domestic market in China, WE Knife quickly established a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. This foundation allowed the company to expand its reach...

"...Read More"

The story of White River Knife and Tool begins long before the company's founding in 2010. Its roots trace back to the early 1990s when the Cammenga family was involved in manufacturing compasses for the U.S. military and commercial sporting goods market. Their company, Cammenga Corp, became well-known for producing high-quality compasses, laying the groundwork for what would eventually become one of America's premier knife makers. During those early years, the Cammenga family attended the SHOT Show...

"...Read More"

Daniel Winkler’s journey into knife-making began in the early 1980s when he developed an interest in historical blade designs and traditional forging methods. A blacksmith by trade, Winkler was inspired by the tools and weapons of America’s frontier era, particularly those used by Native Americans and early settlers. This passion led him to craft knives and tomahawks that reflected the spirit and rugged functionality of these early tools. In 1988, Winkler earned the title of Master Bladesmith from the American Bladesmith Society (ABS)...

"...Read More"

Work Sharp is a distinguished brand under Darex, LLC, established in 1973 in Ashland, Oregon, by Howard McGhee and his son David McGhee. The company's name, Darex, originates from David and Ruth McGhee's names combined with "Excellence," embodying their dedication to superior performance. Initially, Darex focused on creating high-quality drill bit sharpeners for industrial and commercial use. Over time, they expanded their product line to include sharpeners for other tools such as end mills and taps, gaining a reputation for innovation and quality in the tool sharpening...

"...Read More"

Zero Tolerance (ZT) Knives, renowned for their high-quality craftsmanship and innovative designs, has become a leading name in the knife industry. Founded in 2006 as a division of Kai USA Ltd., ZT Knives has consistently delivered durable, reliable, and aesthetically appealing knives that cater to both professional and enthusiast markets. The inception of ZT Knives was driven by the vision to create knives that could withstand the toughest conditions. Kai USA Ltd., the parent company, is a subsidiary of Kai Group, a Japanese company...

"...Read More"

Zwilling, founded on June 13th, 1731, by Peter Henckels in Solingen, Germany, stands as one of the oldest brands globally. Its iconic Twin logo, one of the world's earliest trademarks, was registered with the Cutlers’ Guild of Solingen. Later the company was renamed Zwilling J.A. Henckels by Peters's son Johann Abraham Henckels. The 19th century marked significant growth for Zwilling J.A. Henckels. In 1818, the company opened its first sales outlet in Berlin, signaling the beginning of its expansion beyond Solingen. By 1883, the company had established a sales office in New York City...

"...Read More"