FAQ

Do you take custom orders?

No, not at this time. Currently the only way to get a knife is through semi regular Friday night knife drops or the couple of shows a year that we do.

 

What handle materials do you use?

I use a variety of handle materials but here are those I use the most;

1) Micarta- canvas, linen, or paper layered laminate. Great all around material as it is extremely durable and has good grip even when wet. 

2) G10- a layered polymer material that is our most durable but can be slick unless the material is textured or scalloped. Water proof and chemical resistant. 

3)Wood-  adds a beautiful and unique touch to each knife. There are almost endless patterns and colors available. The woods we use are tough but still have the a slight possibility of splitting or cracking over time. Where needed, the wood has been stabilized to reduce shrinkage and expansion when in humid or arid environments.

 

What are the different steel types listed?

I have narrowed down the steel choices to just a few high performance steels that fit the intended role of each knife.

80CrV2 is our high carbon, hard use choice steel. It is simple to forge and heat treat but offers great shock resistance. It is not stainless and will patina or even rust if not dried and oiled after use. Covid has made it difficult to come by so we are using it less and less.

A2 is high carbon tool steel that makes a great all around knife. It will hold a finer edge than a simple carbon steel knife. It has a little corrosion resistance and is a what we use for our mid sized woods knives. It is not stainless and may patina or even rust if not dried and oiled after use

S7 is a super tough, shock resistance steel that we use in our large blades or ones that are meant for extreme duty. It does not hold quite the edge that other steels may but its toughness far exceeds anything else we use. It is not stainless and will patina or even rust if not dried and oiled after use

NitroV is our favorite stainless steel. Very similar to AEB-L, but with added vanadium and nitrogen for a bit of toughness. It acts a lot like a high carbon blade with its toughness and ease of sharpening but has great corrosion resistance. It is a great all around steel that works for all kinds of knives.

 

What are the differences in kydex vs leather?

I offer sheaths in both thermomolded kydex plastic and hand tooled leather. Some knives are offered in only one or the other. Kydex sheaths are molded to each knife and must be made with the knife. Leather can be shaped afterwards so it is somewhat universal.

Kydex sheaths can be mounted in multiple different configurations, both vertical, horizontal, and left or right sided. They feature a very secure "click fit". Due to close fit they can easily scratch the knife finish.

Leather offers a comfortable belt carry option. They offer a tight, moldable fit. They are also very comfortable to carry. The downside is that they are designed to be carried in one configuration only; right side or left side vertical carry.

 

Do you offer a warranty?

I stand behind my work and will cover all defects in manufacturing. Issues like normal wear and tear, scratches, dull edges from use, and abuse/misuse are not covered. Examples of abuse include but are not limited to neglect resulting in rust, exposure to extreme heat (i.e. "sanitizing the blade with fire"), using the knife as a pry bar or screw driver, or chopping with any knife not designed to do so. It is always best to contact us before making any modifications to the knife that may void the warranty. If you have any issues please contact me directly and I will do our best to help.   

 

How do I care for my knife?

A lot of our knives are high carbon steel. They will rust or discolor if not kept dry and semi regularly oiled. Some chose to leave the discoloration or "patina" as it offers some rust protection and a unique character. The patina can be removed with steel wool or fine scotch bright easily. 

Even stainless steel will rust over time and needs to stay dry. Make sure to wipe the blade before re-sheathing and do not store knives in a wet sheath. Keep a light coat of oil on the metal areas of high carbon blades. Mineral oil is sufficient and is food safe. Application of wood protector such as Tru-Oil on wood handles will restore luster. G10 and Micarta simply need to be cleaned with mild soap and water then dried thoroughly.  A detailed care and maintenance sheet is sent out with every knife.

 

Are your knives made in the U.S.A?

Yes, every knife and sheath is handmade in the U.S.A. in our shop in Central Pennsylvania. I do everything in house, including heat treatment. I try my best to source all materials in the US and pride myself in searching for the best quality materials and not the cheapest price. Some steels are manufactured in Europe and must come from there.

 

Do you offer a Military or public service discount?

As a veteran owned business we proudly offer 5% off all non sale products to active duty military, reserves, law enforcement, Fire, and EMS personnel to show our support. Use code: CivilService5 for the discount. We thank you for your service!