What are the top 5 custom knives?

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beera

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Feb 16, 2006
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What are the top 5 custom knives?

I see allot on of knives on custom knife sites but I don't know what to look for. What are the valued custom knives out there amongst the elite knife people?
 
It really depends who you ask. I myself have had a thing for the "little guy" especially those who participate in discussions here.

Take a look at our Knife Maker's section, those are the guys that I like.
 
I mean the guys on Tnk and knife art and steel addiction. I mean custom makers who make users. I am sure there are top guys here but I have to start some where. Where do you start ? Who is who?
 
Heres a few names to look for/at. In no particular order:

Kit Carson
Ken Onion
Bob Lum
Phil Boguszewski
Scott Cook

I could go on and on but those ought to keep you busy for a while. :D

Phillip :)
 
If how much they cost says anything, Ken Onion, Neil Blackwood, Michael Walker, Steve Ryan, Warren Osborne, and a number of others all make knives that have high $$$ values.
BUT....
Bob Terzuola, Darrel Ralph, Kit Carson, the Crawfords, Bob Lum, Allen Elishewitz and many others all make top notch knives for less $$$$$.
.
So, to answer your question, there is no answer, you need to be more specific about what type of folder you are refering to, and maybe indicate a $$$ range.
 
Henri Viallon, Steve Jerrigan, Ron Newton, Johan Gustafsson, Des Horn.

I could go on and on, but because you asked for only five, I will stop there.
 
You are going to get a variety of response, as they are many fantastic custom knife makers out there!! I could easily list more than five. My top 7, in no particular order: Darrel Ralph, Rick Hinderer, Peter Atwood, Tom Mayo, Kirby Lambert, RJ Martin and Kevin Wilkins. These genltemen are some of MY favorites. I do have more.
 
You opened up a can of truffles for sure,there are many fine folder makers,stick around and you will get the answers you want.:)
Haven't seen Bailey Bradshaw mentioned yet.:confused:

Doug
 
Of course it is a matter of a personal preferences but I would add to the above

Tim Galyean
DB Fraley
Sal Manaro
Mike Obernauf
Jim Burke

These gentlemen are among the hottest up and coming knifemakers.

edited to add JL Williams
 
Take a look at Stag and Steel, Jim Wharton, here on the forums. He makes a great knife at a reasonable price.
 
This is so subjective, but I couldnt resist. I have way more than five favorites, but heres some of who I have their work. In no particular order.
Jay

Bailey Bradshaw,
Tony Bose,
P.J. Tomes,
Bob Terzola,
Johnny Stout
 
Based on my own collection:
Tom Mayo
Bailey Bradshaw
Scott Cook
Darrel Ralph
Frank Centofante

However, if we're talking elite collectors (which would, by definition, leave me out), I'd suggest purchasing a copy of David Darom's book, Art and Design in Modern Custom Folding Knives. Look upon the works of the mighty and drool.
 
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