Molding of the Maker

About Me

Welcome to Hunter Handmade Knives. I am located in Clarkson, KY. I became interested in making knives while living in South Africa for a short time. While there, I had the opportunity to take a fixed blade knife making course. 

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Following that course, I made my first knife with a hacksaw, hand files, Dremel and sandpaper. The knife was in a word UGLY, but to me it was a beautiful creation because of the time and effort I put into it. It also completely hooked me into the world of knife making.

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Upon returning to the U.S. I played with making knives in my spare time until I retired from my fulltime job with the Department of Homeland Security in 2015.  Since retiring I've been able to spend more time in the shop learning and improving my skills.

I am fortunate that I live close to Gene Baskett who has been making knives for over 30 years.  Gene is a past President of the Knifemakers Guild.  Gene has been invaluable in helping and guiding me in my quest to become a quality knifemaker. In March 2019, I became a voting member of the Knifemakers Guild.

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I make my knives using the stock removal method.  That is, I take a template of one of my knife designs, place it on a piece of steel bar stock, and cut it out with a bandsaw.  I then refine the profile of the knife by hand sanding and with the use of my disc and belt sanders.  After heat treating, I grind the knife to its final shape.  I make the handles for my knives in my shop using various wood and synthetic materials.  I mostly use CPM 154, AEB-L, Nitro-V and Damascus for my knives.  

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I make mostly fixed blades but have gotten to the point where I feel comfortable selling my liner lock folders. The knives I make are the best that I am capable of producing and with each one I try to improve on my fit and finish of the knife. 

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I look forward to putting a knife in your hand that will do its job and last for years to come. If you have any questions please contact me. My cell phone number is 703-341-9669. Please leave a message because I don't answer the phone unless I recognize the number.