Custom forged knives-which maker?

Joined
Mar 3, 2000
Messages
64
What custom knife makers produce the best forged knife for the money? I am not looking for a specific steel or type of knife, I would just like some suggestions on who you think has the best bang for the buck.
Thanks.
 
For me, the custom maker (whether forged or stock removal) who gives the best value for a knife is Bob Dozier. His blades are ground from D2 to give lifelong service at a great price $150-$200. A real using knife from a true craftsman. Some of his pieces can be seen at AG Russell's site here: http://www.agrussell.com/dozier/index.html

However, IIRC these pieces are so popular they are backordered for months.



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"Praise not the day until evening has come;a sword until it is tried; ice until it has been crossed; beer until it has been drunk" - Viking proverb
 
I don't think you can go wrong with Matt Lamey. His prices are still reasonable for
what you get. I just recieved a small utility
and it is really sharp and feels great in the
hand. I have others ordered.

You asked about forging and Matt seems to know his heat treating, others have confirmed this. Matts site is:
http://www.lameyknives.com

Win Heger
 
Fellow forum members who forge:

Matt Lamey
Bruce Evans
Ray Kirk
Ed Caffrey (check out his site for a surprising "bang for buck"!)
Bob Dockrell

Another person who does great work (both damascus & non): Chuck Hawes.

 
If you like Damascus, Art Swyhart in Washington hand forges his own at prices that look like stock removal stainless steel knives. I don't know how he does it. We'll be featuring his first folder on our website in a couple of weeks (not forged, of course.) You can get information at http://www.knifeoutlet.com/swyhart.htm and please tell him I said hello if you contact him.

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Fred
Knife Outlet
http://www.knifeoutlet.com
 
Charlie Ochs (Ox Forge) of Largo, Fl.IMHO offers the best bang for the buck in forged blades.Great fit and finish, thin edges, hold a great edge and cuts extremely well.
I have a 5" drop point by Jerry Fisk and it wont perform on game likes Charlies blade.
 
There are many great makers to choose from. They have their strengths and weaknesses. If I had to pick one who can do work of the highest quality but who can also make a helluva simple and economical knife: Wally Hayes.
 
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