Skirum creek forge custom knives

I started my apprenticeship and forge work in 1982 while in college. During this time I earned a B.S. degree in Industrial Arts with a minor concentration in art. I later served as a resident smith at the college for a year. I served as the resident blacksmith at historic Fort Boonesborough for three years. I worked on a line of classic knife re-creations. I was the resident knifemaker in Renfro Valley, KY and later worked as an independent custom knifemaker for several years. I have attended numerous seminars and studied with several master blacksmiths to further my knowledge of my trade. My knife making began as an extension of my interest of both forge work and history. Each knife I make is a unique hand made item. I hand forge my blades to shape and I make my own Damascus steel. I believe strongly in sole authorship and do not use bought blades, guards, or handles. This is not the quickest or easiest way, but when I'm finished, I hope I've accomplished what I set out to do, which is to make something unique and special. Much of my work is influenced by classic American knife patterns,northern European styles, and ethnic inspiration. I use only natural materials for the handles i.e. antler, horn, bone,leather and wood. Of these materials wood is my favorite. I try to use highly figured native woods and,when available, exotic woods. My knives fall into two main categories, user and presentation grade. The user grade finish can range from "as forged" and sharpened to fully detailed and ornamented. Presentation grade knives are usually per customer order with design and options (as well as price) determined in advance.