Ben Petersen’s journey into the world of knives began long before the inception of KNAFS. Growing up in a small town in Idaho, Petersen was surrounded by a culture that valued the practical utility of knives. His fascination with blades started at a young age when he would spend hours exploring the woods and learning about various tools. The idea that a small object could serve multiple purposes, from whittling sticks to preparing food, captivated him. Ben's journey into the knife industry wasn't a straightforward one. He initially studied broadcast journalism and film at Brigham Young University...

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Brian Tighe is a prominent figure in the world of custom knife making, renowned for his innovative designs and the exceptional quality of his craftsmanship. With a career spanning several decades, Tighe has made a significant impact on the industry, blending traditional techniques with modern technology to create unique and functional knives.

Brian Tighe grew up with a keen interest in crafting and mechanics, which led him to explore various forms of artistic expression. His fascination with knives began at a young age, influenced by their practicality and the skill required to make them...

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In the heart of the wilderness, where nature unfolds its most primal challenges, Carleigh Fairchild embarked on a journey that would test the limits of her survival skills, resilience, and connection to the earth. Her participation in the grueling TV show Alone was more than just a test of endurance; it was an exploration of self-reliance and the human spirit's capability to thrive in isolation. Alone is not your typical survival show. It places individuals in remote...

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Case Knives, an iconic American knife company tracing its roots back to 1889, and Smoky Mountain Knife Works (SMKW), one of the premier knife retailers in the United States, had the profound honor of hosting Medal of Honor recipients Leroy Petry and Kyle White. The two genuine American heroes visited the Case offices and SMKW facilities in Sevierville, Tennessee to discuss their involvement with the 2022 Medal of Honor Convention in nearby Knoxville.

The Medal of Honor is the highest and most prestigious military decoration...

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Jesper Voxnaes is a renowned Danish knife maker whose designs have garnered international acclaim for their functionality, aesthetics, and innovation. With over two decades of experience in the industry, Voxnaes has built a reputation as one of the most influential contemporary knife designers, collaborating with leading knife manufacturers and creating custom pieces that are highly sought after by collectors and users alike. Born and raised in Denmark, Jesper Voxnaes developed an early fascination with knives and tools. His interest was fueled by the practical need for durable, reliable knives for outdoor activities...

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Joe Caswell is a prominent and innovative figure in the knifemaking industry, renowned for his inventive designs and meticulous approach. His journey into knifemaking began in 1995, and since then, he has established himself as an industry disruptor, continuously pushing the boundaries of knife design and functionality.

From a young age, Caswell demonstrated an innate curiosity and a penchant for creation. In an eighth-grade shop class, he built a crossbow inspired by medieval...

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Joe Flowers is a man whose life is shaped by his love of the outdoors, a passion for knives, and a deep-seated commitment to conservation. Known as a prolific knife designer, a dedicated bushcraft practitioner, and an advocate for the natural world, Joe’s journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and a commitment to blending historical wisdom with modern techniques. From his childhood fascination with knives to establishing Bushcraft Global, Joe has carved a unique niche in the world of outdoor adventure and survival Joe Flowers' journey began with a childhood love for knives. Growing up...

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In the rugged, pastoral landscapes of rural Palestine, West Virginia, a young boy named Ken Onion grew up on a cattle farm where tools weren't just accessories; they were essentials for daily life. Among these, the knife stood paramount, a tool as ancient as civilization itself. Ken's journey from a farm boy fascinated with blades to a globally recognized knife-making innovator reads like a script for an inspirational film, encapsulating the essence of American ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of perfection. Ken's enthrallment with knives sparked at the age of four. His early escapades involved stealing his father's razor blades to whittle away at the world...

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In the world of knives, few names carry as much weight as Kit Carson. This pioneering knifemaker's innovative designs and exceptional craftsmanship have left a lasting mark on the industry over the past half-century. Unlike his historical namesake, the famed frontiersman, Kit Carson wields a different type of blade - one that has shaped the very course of modern knifemaking.

Born in North Georgia, Carson's fascination with knives emerged early in his life. Drafted into the Army in 1972, his interest in knives blossomed during his two decades of service...

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The premise of "Alone" is simple yet daunting: ten individuals, ten chosen items, and a quest to outlast everyone else in the wilderness. Larry participated in Season Two on Vancouver Island, Canada, battling the relentless rain, and Season Five in Mongolia, facing an entirely different set of challenges. Despite not clinching the top spot, Larry's remarkable 64-day survival on Vancouver Island and 41 days in Mongolia speaks volumes about his skills and resilience.

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Lucas Burnley, born on July 14, 1982, is an American knife designer whose journey into knifemaking is as much about craftsmanship as it is about personal expression. Burnley’s early experiences growing up in a family with a love for adventure, particularly outdoor activities with his father, fueled his passion for knives and survival tools. This background, coupled with his love of action movies, shaped his perspective on the functionality and aesthetic of knives.
Burnley’s path to knifemaking began with an unconventional step. At 16, he enrolled in a government welding program, where he developed...

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L.T. Wright grew up in Brooke County, West Virginia, where his fascination with knives began at a young age. Inspired by his father, an avid outdoorsman and hunter, Wright was captivated by the knives his father used during hunting trips. The allure of these tools was strong, and young Wright would often take his father's hunting knives into the woods, emulating the adventures of Tarzan with his friends. This early exposure to knives ignited a lifelong passion for these versatile tools. Wright's first knife was a leather-handled hunter, a gift from his parents for his birthday or Christmas. This knife became his...

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Ric Valdez, founder of Ocaso Knives, has spent over two decades carving his path in the knife industry, transforming from a young Texan fascinated by pocket knives to a respected figure known for his marketing acumen and dedication to quality craftsmanship. Ric's story is one of passion, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to creating knives that stand the test of time. Ric Valdez was born in Texas, a place that would leave a lasting mark on his life and career. His early years were spent in Uvalde, a small town near the Mexican border. Ric recalls fondly the influence of his grandfather...

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Tony Bose, a revered figure in contemporary knife-making, left an enduring legacy as one of the most respected and influential artisans of his time. Renowned for his profound impact on traditional pocket knives and notable collaborations with Case, Bose significantly shaped the landscape of the knife community. Beyond his role as a designer, Bose distinguished himself as a mentor and cherished friend to many within the craft. His influence extended to the revival of traditional slip joints, where he played a pivotal role as a resurrectionist, breathing new life into this classic art form...

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