Who are the Best Bladesmiths?

Since we are talking about bladesmiths and not just knife makers... I'd like to throw in a name into the mix...

Howard Clark

One of the best western tosho around.
Even Yashihara Yoshindo was smittened with his work... which is saying quite alot...
 
Originally posted by sanmai
Since we are talking about bladesmiths and not just knife makers... I'd like to throw in a name into the mix...

Howard Clark

One of the best western tosho around.
Even Yashihara Yoshindo was smittened with his work... which is saying quite alot...
Click to expand...

He is also one of the best around to use and explain metalurgy. Great guy all around - I've got 3 pieces by him myself, including a shobu zukuri katana which is to cry for.

JD
 
Originally posted by Les Robertson
KW,

My criteria is based on the totality of the makers work. Not meerly their skill at making a knife. Based on that my #1 bladesmith is Jerry Fisk.

Additionally, he has a total and unwavering commitment to his art as well as the ABS.

He consistently does whatever it takes to get the job done. He goes above and beyond for the ABS.

In addition to being a world class maker, he is a Leader, Teacher, Mentor, Inspiration and Watchdog of those who would forge blades.

I am talking totality of the man and his work.

Others who have been mentioned are exceptional bladesmiths and world class knife makers who also have given of themseleves above and beyond are Harvey Dean, Tim Hancock, Steve Schwarzer, Don Fogg, Al Pendray, Joe Flourny,Jim Crowell and another one of my favorites Keith Kilby.

Two guys who get overlooked are Jerry Rados and Tim Zowada.

Lets not forget Daryl Meier.

I always appreciate talking with these makers as they represent men who have given large portions of their lives to something they belive in.
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As usual, Les, these are right on-target observations. I'm always trying to digest these morsels of good info and keep them in the back of my mind for future purchases and appraisals. Thanks.

One maker whose name was only mentioned briefly fits all of this, too. In spades. Robbin Hudson. He's already on Jerry Fisk's short list of top Mastersmith's, and I know he works and talks regularly with Don Fogg, who is also an admirer.

His biggest problem is his total lack of exposure to the buying public. As you've mentioned before, a maker NEEDS to stay current as well as produce quality. I can't offer an explanation. But this is only one one aspect of his lengthy career, which spans decades.

Not only does he give back in seminars to the ABS yearly, but he is promoting and teaching the trade to youth. This impact is immeasurable for all of us in this field.

Every Summer he runs a blacksmithing and forging seminar for a Youth Camp. Imagine my surprise last year when I was telling the youth I coach how I collect knives, and one of them said: "Knives? How cool is that!! I made a knife at camp, from this guy named Robbin Hudson!" This kid already had a good vibe from knives.

Later, I'll post a pic of a new piece he made in the Gallery. Visionary? I guarantee it will give you pause....!
 
what about Wally Hayes?

one of the best japanese style knives and swords. the man doesn't limit himself to Japanese style, he does bowie, fantasy, daggers, and anything in between
 
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