David Barnes

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David Barnes

Published: September 23rd, 2024

David Barnes, a prominent figure in bladesports, has carved out a significant reputation in this unique and demanding field. Bladesports, which evolved from the American Bladesmith Society's early competitions, has grown to include various cutting tasks, such as slicing through hanging ropes and chopping through 2x4s. Barnes’s journey into this sport and his contributions to it offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of competitive knife cutting. 

Barnes’s passion for knives began at a young age. Growing up in Indiana, his father was an avid knife user and collector, which naturally sparked Barnes’s interest. Every year since first grade, Barnes and his family would go up to Wyoming, where he would convince his dad to buy him a cartoon slip joint knife before going backpacking for their summer family vacation. Summers spent backpacking in Wyoming with his father ingrained in him a deep appreciation for knives as essential tools. His father is still an avid backpacker, currently going on his 49th year of backpacking.

Barnes first encountered bladesports after watching it at the Blade Show in Atlanta in 2013. This exposure ignited a desire to participate in the competitions himself. He met LT Wright at a gun show in 2012 in Indianapolis, Indiana, and their connection played a pivotal role in his journey. Barnes began training under LT Wright in early 2015 at Wright’s shop in Wintersville, Ohio. This training equipped him with the skills necessary to compete, leading to his participation in his first bladesports competition, the Buckeye Cut, held at LT Wright's shop in September 2015. 

Bladesports competitions are rigorous and diverse, testing both the competitor's skill and the knife's performance. Barnes has competed in numerous events, which typically include cutting through a 2x4 or 2x6, slicing real golf balls, and cutting ropes of varying diameters. Each course is unique, designed by the participants to challenge different aspects of knife handling and precision.

David Barnes

- David Barnes, also known as America's Cutter, grew up in rural Indiana

- As a child, Barnes and his family would go to Wyoming for a yearly backpacking trip

L.T. Wright

- Barnes first encountered bladesports at Blade Show in Atlanta in 2013

- Barnes began training under LT Wright (pictured above) in 2015 at Wright's shop in Wintersville, Ohio

One of Barnes's notable achievements came in the 2024 world competition, where he secured second place. Additionally, he was awarded the prestigious challenge coin, which is given to the competitor with the highest points in the cut, based on both time and cutting precision.

Bladesports has specific requirements for the knives used to ensure fairness and safety. The blade must be at most 10 inches long by 2 inches tall, and the entire knife must be at most 15 inches. Barnes has used a variety of knives, including his own custom-made knives and production models. In the 2024 world competition, he used a Big Chris Chopper, a knife known for its efficiency and reliability in bladesports.

Among the many events hosted by Blade Sports International, Barnes's favorite is the SMKW Cut. This competition, held during the Smoky Mountain Knife Works fall festival, draws a substantial crowd and a diverse mix of knife makers and bladesports enthusiasts. The event creates an atmosphere similar to the Blade Show but on a more intimate scale. Barnes is sponsored by SMKW, further solidifying his strong ties with the community.

Barnes is not only a competitor but also a skilled knife maker. He draws inspiration from various designers, including Big Chris, James Clifton, Donavan Phillips, and Carothers Performance Knives. His journey into knife-making was significantly influenced by Dan Coppins, who taught him the intricacies of the craft in Ohio. Barnes constantly seeks feedback to improve his knives, striving to produce the best tools for both competition and practical use.

David Barnes

- Barnes has used a variety of knives, but most notably he used the Big Chris Chopper in 2024 to secure 2nd place at the world competition

- Barnes favorite cut hosted by Blade Sports International is the SMKW Cut at the Smoky Mountain Knife Works fall festival

- Barnes is proudly sponsored by Smoky Mountain Knife Works

A fundamental philosophy of bladesports is to promote the knife as a versatile tool. The competitions showcase the practical applications of knives in various tasks, emphasizing their utility and efficiency. This aspect of the sport resonates deeply with Barnes, who views his involvement as both a personal passion and a way to advocate for the responsible use of knives.

Known for always wearing an all-American flag outfit, Barnes stands out not just for his skills but also for his patriotic presence. From a young enthusiast influenced by his father to a world-class competitor and knife maker, Barnes exemplifies the spirit of bladesports. His achievements and contributions continue to inspire others in the community, highlighting the art and utility of knives in both competition and everyday use.

Written by Drew Clifton

Expert Reviewed

T.C. Barnette

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.

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