Most well known knife designers

[MattBPKT]

Hi folks
Apologies if this is in the wrong section but I'm looking for input on the most influential and respected folding knife designers in the modern era. I was challenged to write an article on this for a local knife club. Names that spring to mind are Chris Reeve, Ken Onion, Rick Hinderer and Les de Asis. Who else would be in the top 10?

Thanks

 

[bpeezer]

When I think of "designers" as opposed to "makers", I'd specifically look for guys that do collaborations with production companies. G&G Hawk is the first one that springs to my mind, but I'm a sucker for their locks

 

[marcinek]

Mick Strider kerfuffle in 10...9...8....

Define "modern era" if you would. It will make things much easier for everybody. :thumbup:

 

[Shotgun]

I would go with victorinox and leatherman before those guys. They might be influential in this small niche of knife enthusiasts but the rest of the world knows those two companies. I would say whoever is designing for them is more influential.

 

[9blades]

Lulz Marcinek ^^


Sal Glesser, Eric Glesser, RJ Martin...

 

[Phydeaux]

Blackie Collins
Bob Lum
Al Mar

 

[SaintlyBrees]

Hi folks
Apologies if this is in the wrong section but I'm looking for input on the most influential and respected folding knife designers in the modern era. I was challenged to write an article on this for a local knife club. Names that spring to mind are Chris Reeve, Ken Onion, Rick Hinderer and Les de Asis. Who else would be in the top 10?

Thanks

Let me add Bob Loveless to that conversation, depending on what you consider "modern era".

Interestingly, Blade magazine had a multiple issue coverage of just this topic last year, broken down by era. Perhaps you can find copies at your local library or contact Blade magazine to buy the back issues. Best of luck.

 

[MatthewSB]

Bob Terzuola.

If anyone I care about starts babbling about "tactical knives" I have them google image search "Terzuola ATCF" and "Terzuola M30". That is exactly what a real tactical knife looks like.

 

[EZ Bake]

Kit Carson should be on that list and since Sal Glesser and Spyderco did so much with "modern folding knives", I'd say that's a good one to have on there too.

 

[ibute21]

Emerson.

 

[link2derek]

Bob Lum (may he R.I.P.):




Allen Elishewitz (kinda old school):




Mel Pardue:




Warren Osborne:




McHenry & Williams (ok, so that's two):

 

[MattBPKT]

Bob Lum (may he R.I.P.):



Allen Elishewitz (kinda old school):



Mel Pardue:



Warren Osborne:



McHenry & Williams (ok, so that's two):

Yes! Much appreciated.