Dead Reckon Knives

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Dead Reckon Knives

Published: October 4th, 2024

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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. While deployed in Iraq, Sean began sketching knife designs as a way to channel his creativity. One of these designs would eventually become the Ridgeback, the flagship knife for Dead Reckon Knives.

In 2019, Sean reenlisted in the Marines with a new mission: to learn as much as possible about CNC machining and knife-making. Using his reenlistment bonus, he purchased a Tormach CNC machine and began teaching himself CAD design and CNC programming. It was a steep learning curve, but Sean’s determination drove him to keep pushing forward, working late into the night to improve his skills.

Dead Reckon Knives founders

- Dead Reckon Knives was founded in 2023 by Sean Bernstein, Chad Dixon, Neil Birchfield, and Beau Brown (pictured above)

In an interesting twist of fate, Sean met Chad Dixon, his future business partner, after one of his students won the "high shooter" award. Sean decided to make the student a knife using his CNC machine. After giving the knife to the student, the student mentioned that he knew a machinist as well, and gave Sean his contact information. This chance encounter would become a key moment in the founding of Dead Reckon Knives.

Sean reached out to Chad, and the two quickly bonded over their shared interest in machining. Chad, a seasoned machinist with over 20 years of experience, mentored Sean and helped refine his CNC skills. Their partnership became the foundation of OP1 Industries, an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) business they established in Grove City, Ohio, in 2021, along with Neal Birchfield and Beau Brown. While Chad, Neal, and Beau left their manufacturing jobs to focus on OP1 full-time, Sean used his leave from the Marines to travel between Ohio and California, helping set up the business.

OP1 Industries became the springboard for Dead Reckon Knives, allowing Sean and his team to manufacture their own line of knives while continuing to provide OEM services to other brands. In 2023, Dead Reckon Knives officially launched their flagship model, the Ridgeback, at the 20th anniversary of REC (River's Edge Cutlery) in Hillard, Ohio. The Ridgeback, based on one of Sean’s original sketches from his deployment in Iraq, was met with great enthusiasm.

Op1 Industries Logo

- Sean, Chad, Neal, and Beau established OP1 Industries, an OEM business in 2021 in Grove City, Ohio

- OP1 became the springboard for Dead Reckon Knives, allowing them to produce their own line of knives in house

- In 2023, Dead Reckon Knives launched their flagship model, the Ridgeback at the 20th anniversary of REC

What sets the Ridgeback apart is that every major part of the knife is made completely in-house. From the blade to the handle, each component is crafted by the team at Dead Reckon’s facility, ensuring the highest level of quality and precision. This level of control allows the company to maintain the high standards they’ve become known for, as well as the satisfaction of knowing that its products are 100% American-made.

One of the major milestones for Dead Reckon Knives came in 2024 when Sean and Beau attended Blade Show Texas. They managed to secure the last available free table at the event, their knives quickly caught the attention of attendees, and they sold over 40 knives during the show. This was a turning point for Dead Reckon, proving that their products resonated with customers and were in high demand.

Sean & Beau at Blade Show Texas 2024

- The Ridgeback is completely manufactured in house, and is 100% American made

- After attending Blade Show Texas in 2024, Sean and Beau (pictured above) were blown away by the reception of the Ridgeback

This success at Blade Show Texas gave Sean and Beau the confidence to continue expanding their product line and developing new designs. The experience also reinforced the importance of community and customer engagement, both of which have played a significant role in the brand’s growth.

Dead Reckon Knives is built on a foundation of precision and unmatched craftsmanship. With over 50 years of combined manufacturing expertise, the team has mastered the art of producing knives with exceptional accuracy. Utilizing cutting-edge CNC technology with equipment like vertical and hortizonal machining centers as well as Swiss lathe, they meticulously refine every step of the process to ensure each knife meets the highest standards of quality and performance.

Dead Reckon’s choice of materials is equally important. The company uses Grade 5 titanium and 7075-T6 aircraft aluminum for its integral handles, materials known for their strength and lightweight properties. For their blades, they prefer premium steels such as CPM MagnaCut, CPM 3V, and CPM S45VN, all of which offer exceptional edge retention, toughness, and resistance to wear. Many of their blades are coated with salt bath nitride or other finishes to enhance their performance and durability.

Swiss Lathe

- Dead Reckon Knives utilizes advanced CNC machines such as Swiss lathe (pictured above)

- Dead Reckon Knives utilize high quality materials such as Grade 5 titanium and Magnacut

The Ridgeback, in particular, exemplifies Dead Reckon’s dedication to quality and durability. Designed to withstand hard use in the field, the Ridgeback has been tested in various extreme conditions, including a test where the blade was beaten against a trailer hitch, bending the hitch but leaving the blade unharmed. This kind of durability is a hallmark of Dead Reckon’s products.

As Dead Reckon Knives continues to grow, the team is focused on expanding its product line and pushing the boundaries of knife-making. Their success at Blade Show Texas in 2024 was a breakthrough, but it’s just the beginning for the company. With new designs and innovations in development, Dead Reckon is poised to continue making a significant impact in the knife industry.

The company’s commitment to in-house production ensures that every knife is made in the USA and meets the highest standards of quality. By controlling every aspect of the manufacturing process, Sean and his team can continue to produce knives that are both functional and durable, designed to withstand the toughest conditions.

Dead Reckon Knives is more than just a brand, it reflects the values that the whole team holds dear; precision, craftsmanship, and reliability. As they continue to innovate and grow, Dead Reckon Knives is sure to become a leading name in the knife industry, known for producing tools that are built to last and perform at the highest level.

Written by Drew Clifton

What to Buy

The Ridgeback by Dead Reckon Knives features a 3.25" stonewashed CPM MagnaCut blade engineered for durability and precision. Its integral button lock provides reliable deployment, while bead-blasted, patterned titanium handles offer enhanced grip and control. At 4.83" closed and weighing 4.42oz, the Ridgeback balances portability with functionality. The stainless steel pocket clip ensures easy carry, and every detail speaks to American craftsmanship. Built for those who demand quality, the Ridgeback is a knife designed for everyday use and lasting performance.

Discover the Ridgeback from Dead Reckon Knives, a folding knife designed for rugged reliability and superior craftsmanship. Made in the USA, it features a 3.23-inch CPM MagnaCut steel blade with excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. Its modified reverse tanto design offers piercing power with a strong tip, complemented by a sleek, non-reflective bead blasted finish. The handle, crafted from 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum with a burnt orange anodized finish, provides strength and lightweight performance. Equipped with smooth flipper action, a button lock mechanism, and a stainless steel pocket clip, the Ridgeback is perfect for everyday carry at just 4.23 ounces.

The Ridgeback folding knife from Dead Reckon is proudly crafted in the USA. Featuring a premium 3V steel blade with a black SbNi finish, it offers superior corrosion resistance and durability. The hard-anodized turquoise aluminum handle provides a secure grip, and the integral button lock ensures smooth, reliable operation. Measuring 4.23" closed with a 4.12" blade, the Ridgeback is compact yet powerful, designed for tough tasks and outdoor adventures. Equipped with a stainless steel pocket clip and lanyard hole for versatile carry, it’s a reliable companion for any modern adventurer.

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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