A little about Lee Oates, "Mr. Bearclaw". I began putting knife kits together in 1985 and continued to read and study to learn more about knife making. After a course in bladesmithing in 1989, I began forging my own blades. In 1994 I went into custom knife forging and heat treating full-time.
I do all my own forging using a coal forge and three pound hammer. I make my own damascus and am very at ease using all types of steels. When I do a custom piece it is a "one man operation". I forge the steel, heat treat the blade, add the handles, etc. and handcraft the sheath to customize the piece even more. I do a lot of research to verify the style and era of a blade. I pride myself on making custom forged blades that will take a 90 degree bend without breaking, and that will last a lifetime. No two Bearclaw Knives will ever be exactly alike. I strive for individuality.