I'm a full-time bladesmith from Shreveport, Louisiana. I started making knives in 1993 using nothing but handtools. For 18 months I made knives with nothing but a hacksaw, a hand drill, a hammer, several files, and a lot of sandpaper. I suppose one might say that it was a "poorman's" stock removal. Heat-treating was done with a charcoal fire, a hair drier, a pair of locking pliers, and a magnet.

It is my personal belief that this is an ideal way for one to start out. I feel that learning the basic skills, using the simplest of handtools, builds character and teaches two qualities that are key to the success of the serious maker. Those two all-important qualities are patience and determination. Without them, the most sophisticated equipment is useless.

My first major turning point occurred in 1996. This was when I had my first exposure to the American Bladesmith Society. It was at a Hammer-in at The Bill Moran School of Bladesmithing, which is co-sponsored by the ABS and Texarkana College. I was astonished at the amount of collective knowledge within this outstanding organization, and the willingness of its members to share this knowledge. For the next two years I bounced between stock removal and forging. By 1998 I made the decision to turn my attention with respect to knifemaking exclusively to the art of the forged blade.

In keeping with the philosophy of sharing information to keep the art alive, I offer articles and tutorials on my website geared towards beginner level makers and general knife enthusiasts, and serve as a moderator and administrator on the CKD forums.

Come by my website and the forums for a visit. When you're ready to add a Primos knife to your collection, I'm here for you.