L.T. Wright Knives

L.T. Wright Knives

Published: September 25th 2024

L.T. Wright Handcrafted Knives logo

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, as a gift from his parents, a present that became his trusted companion on countless outdoor escapades. His fascination with knives only grew as he flipped through the pages of Outdoor Life and Field & Stream, admiring iconic blades like the KA-BAR USMC Fighting Knife, a symbol of rugged durability he dreamed of owning.

As Wright grew older, his interest in knives deepened. A pivotal moment came when he was gifted a custom knife by a friend's father, a part-time knifemaker. This graduation gift left a lasting impression, fueling his desire to create his own knives.

Though life initially took Wright to Northern Virginia, where he and his father started a construction company, his passion for knives remained strong. A chance encounter at a gun show with renowned knife maker RW Wilson would change the course of his life. Wilson, impressed by Wright's enthusiasm, invited him to learn the craft. Under Wilson's mentorship, Wright honed his skills, mastering both the technical aspects of knife making and the art of customer engagement.

By 2000, Wright had returned to his hometown in West Virginia and taken a job at a stair company. Yet, his passion for knives persisted. He began crafting knives as a hobby, making blades for family and friends. His reputation for quality quickly spread, and soon orders began pouring in. Encouraged by the demand and the unwavering support of his wife, Wright made the bold decision to pursue knife-making full-time. Thus, L.T. Wright Handcrafted Knives was born.

L.T. Wright

- L.T. Wright's passion for knives began in West Virginia, inspired by his father's hunting adventures.

- Wright's first knife sparked a lifelong fascination, inspired by iconic blades featured in outdoor magazines.

RW Wilson

- L.T. Wright began training under RW Wilson (pictured above) after meeting him at a gun show

- By 2000, LT Wright returned to West Virginia and began working at a stair company

- While knife making just began as a hobby, his reputation spread, and orders poured in. Encouraged by his wife, L.T. Wright Handcrafted Knives was born

The early days of the business were challenging. Wright and his wife often camped in their Jeep or stayed at rest stops to attend trade shows and sell their knives. Despite the hardships, their dedication paid off. Wright's knives soon gained a reputation for their exceptional quality and functionality, leading to collaborations with prominent figures in the knife and outdoor industries.

L.T. Wright Knives has developed a range of signature knives that reflect Wright's philosophy of practicality and rugged functionality. Among the most popular are:


The Genesis

Known as one of L.T. Wright’s flagship models, the Genesis features a classic bushcraft design with a 4.25-inch blade made from O1 tool steel or A2 steel. Its Scandi grind is perfect for tasks such as carving, fire prep, and general camp chores, making it a favorite among survivalists and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Genesis

The Next Gen

A compact version of the Genesis, the Next Gen is designed for those who need a smaller, lightweight knife that doesn’t compromise on performance. Its ergonomic handle and Scandi grind blade make it a popular choice for EDC (Everyday Carry) and those who prefer a minimalist kit in the wilderness.

The Next Gen

The Patriot

Featuring a shorter 3-inch blade and designed with a classic spear point, the Patriot is perfect for everyday use and small-scale tasks. Its small size allows for its uncompromising performance, as it can handle a wide range of cutting jobs, from camp chores to precise carving.

The Patriot

The Large Northern Hunter

Designed with hunters in mind, this knife features a long, sweeping blade ideal for skinning and processing game. The curved handle provides a comfortable grip, ensuring control and precision during use. The knife's 01 tool steel blade is heat-treated for toughness, allowing it to hold an edge even after extended use in the field.

The Large Northern Hunter

L.T. Wright Knives quickly became a respected name in the industry. Wright's knives have been featured on popular TV shows like Alone and Dual Survival, where they showcased their durability and reliability in extreme conditions. Notable collaborations included working with Larry Roberts to produce a knife for Alone and creating exclusive designs for dealers like Smoky Mountain Knife Works. These partnerships helped expand the brand's reach and establish its reputation for excellence.

Wright's approach to knife design is rooted in practicality and functionality. Each knife is crafted with a specific purpose in mind, ensuring that it excels at its intended task. He likens this philosophy to the differences between a pistol, shotgun, and rifle, each tool is designed for a particular use, and attempting to make one tool perform all tasks is impractical. This design philosophy has resonated with outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike, making L.T. Wright Knives a trusted name in the industry.

Dual Survival

- L.T. Wright knives have been featured on popular TV shows like Alone and Dual Survival

- Wright's knife design prioritizes practicality and purpose, likening each tool to specialized firearms for specific tasks

Wright's success is not only measured by the knives he creates but also by the community he has built. His team, which has grown to include 12 employees, shares his passion for knife-making. Wright is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of knife makers, passing on the knowledge and skills he acquired from mentors like RW Wilson. This dedication to craft and community has helped cement L.T. Wright Handcrafted Knives as a leader in the industry.

Today, L.T. Wright Handcrafted Knives continues to innovate and expand. New designs, like the Regulator and a refined kitchen knife collection, reflect Wright's ongoing commitment to producing high-quality knives that cater to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike. Each new knife is built upon the same principles of reliability, purpose-driven design, and uncompromising quality that have defined the brand since its inception.

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.