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Knafs

Published: October 16th 2024

Knafs logo

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.

Ben's career path took him to CRKT (Columbia River Knife and Tool) in Oregon, where he served as a Digital Marketing Specialist. There, he worked closely with renowned knife designers, gaining invaluable insights into the intricacies of knife design and the business side of the industry. Despite the growth and learning opportunities, Ben felt the constraints of the corporate environment and the high cost of living in Oregon. These factors, coupled with a desire for greater creative freedom and financial stability for his growing family, prompted him to consider a different path.

In 2018, the seeds of Knafs were sown. Ben and Athena recognized a gap in the market: while the knife community was passionate and engaged, there was a lack of affordable, high-quality products that truly catered to the enthusiasts' needs. They envisioned a company that not only provided exceptional products but also fostered a sense of community and education within the knife world.

Operating out of their basement, the couple began developing their first products. Early offerings focused on knife maintenance tools and accessories, items that were both practical and thoughtfully designed. Ben's philosophy was clear: create products that he would personally use and enjoy, ensuring a level of authenticity and practicality that customers could trust.

Ben and Athena Petersen

- Knafs was founded in 2018 by Ben and Athena Petersen (pictured above)

Knafs Launchpad desk organizer

- Knafs was founded after recognizing a gap in the knife market

- Knafs initially focused on knife maintenance tools and accessories

Balancing full-time jobs, parenting, and a budding business was no small feat. Evenings and weekends were dedicated to Knafs, with Ben handling design and community engagement while Athena managed operations and logistics. Their home became a hub of activity, filled with prototypes, packaging materials, and the constant buzz of entrepreneurial energy.

The initial stages of Knafs were challenging. Without the backing of significant capital or a large team, Ben and Athena relied heavily on word-of-mouth marketing and the goodwill of the online knife community. Ben's established reputation and connections played a crucial role in gaining early traction. Social media platforms became vital tools for sharing their story, showcasing products, and building a loyal customer base.

A turning point came with the development of the Banter knife. After leaving his job in August 2019, Ben found himself sketching designs during a trip to Montana. The Banter knife was a manifestation of his accumulated knowledge and his desire to create something that was simple, robust, and functional. He submitted the design to WE Knives in September 2019, and by January 2020, the knife was officially announced.

WE Banter

- During a trip to Montana, Ben would design the now beloved Banter knife, submitting the design to WE in September 2019

The timing coincided with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. A period that, while challenging globally, unexpectedly benefited Knafs. With more people engaging in outdoor activities and hobbies, interest in knives and EDC gear surged. The Banter knife quickly gained popularity, its sales exceeding expectations. The royalties from these sales provided Ben and Athena with the financial means to invest further into Knafs, fueling growth and enabling them to focus on the business full-time.

By 2022, it was clear that Knafs had outgrown the confines of the basement. The decision to leave their other professional commitments and dedicate themselves entirely to Knafs was both significant and necessary. This move allowed them to scale operations, increase production capacity, and expand their product line.

Transitioning into a dedicated office and warehouse space marked a new chapter. The increased space facilitated better organization, more efficient logistics, and room for creativity. It also symbolized the transformation of Knafs from a side project into a fully-fledged enterprise.

Product development took on new dimensions. The release of the Knafs Lander in 2022 exemplified Ben's innovative approach. Designed with modularity in mind, the Lander allowed users to swap out parts and customize their knives easily. This feature appealed to enthusiasts who appreciated not just the utility of their knives but also the ability to personalize and modify them.

Knafs Lander

- In 2022, Knafs relocated to a dedicated office and warehouse, allowing for the company to further expand

- In 2022, Knafs released the Lander (pictured above), which features easily swappable parts and scales

Beyond knives, Knafs expanded into accessories and merchandise. Products like the Knife Maintenance Mat served dual purposes, providing a practical workspace while also educating users about knife anatomy and care. Merchandise such as posters, patches, and apparel featured playful designs that blended humor with knife culture, reinforcing the brand's approachable identity.

Central to Knafs' philosophy is community engagement. Ben and Athena understood that their customers were not just consumers but enthusiasts who valued connection and authenticity. They leveraged social media to tell their story, share behind-the-scenes glimpses, and engage in conversations with followers. This approach fostered a sense of belonging among customers, turning them into advocates and contributors to the brand's ongoing story.

Knafs is more than just a business; it’s a brand built on creativity, craftsmanship, and a commitment to the people who support it. As Knafs grows, Ben and Athena remain focused on fostering that community and delivering products that combine functionality with a distinctive, fun approach. Their story is a powerful reminder that pursuing a dream, no matter how challenging, can lead to something truly special.

Written by Drew Clifton

What to Buy

The Knafs Lander showcases their innovative Fast Swap system, enabling easy and quick scale changes. This model features SMKW-exclusive Mars Valley Fat Carbon handles and a 2.75" CPM S35VN stainless steel drop point blade for exceptional durability and performance. With Open Source customization, you can create or purchase your own custom Lander scales, making it highly personalized. The manual folder operates on smooth ceramic ball bearings and includes ambidextrous thumb studs for effortless deployment. At 3.6" closed and weighing just 2.4oz, the Lander is a lightweight, compact, and versatile everyday carry option.

The Knafs Civivi Baby Banter Shop Mat features a 9x9” n exploded schematic of the Civivi Baby Banter pocket knife, perfect for maintenance, repair, or simply admiring its engineering. The mat includes the knife's specs, a parts list, and handy maintenance tips. Accented in Ben Blue, it adds a subtle pop of color without being distracting. Printed rulers in both inches and millimeters along the edges let you measure knives with precision. Made from durable ⅛” thick polyester cloth with a non-slip rubber underside, it ensures stability on desks or workbenches. Designed by Ben Petersen and proudly made in the USA.

The Knafs Titanium Desk Ruler and Angle Finder is the perfect tool for sharpening enthusiasts. Made from durable 6AL4V Titanium, it offers precise angle measurements to help you find the exact grind angle of your knives before sharpening. The 6-inch ruler features both inch and centimeter measurements, and it is laser-engraved for easy readability. With grind angles ranging from 15° to 40°, this versatile tool is lightweight at only 1.2 oz and just 1/16” thick. Finished with a bead blast for a sleek look, it also includes a convenient lanyard hole for easy carrying.

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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