Brett Bennett - Knifemaker & Metalsmith

The Why

jIt's always satisfying to finish a knife, but I find that the real joy in knifemaking comes through exploration. I enjoy coming up with new designs, learning new techniques and solving how to bring it all together in an esthetically pleasing and functional way.

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The When

Growing up, we lived outside of town but my dad would drive me to mow lawns on Saturday. We stopped at the grocery store one afternoon and I noticed a copy of Blade Magazine. It was then I discovered the world of custom and handmade knives. I was thirteen at the time, but I knew I wanted to make knives one day. Thirteen years later, after a conversation with a coworker who collected custom knives, I decided to get started. That was 1999.

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The How

The knives are completed entirely by me unless otherwise noted. I flat grind almost exclusively and prefer natural materials such as figured wood, oosic, sea cow bone or mammoth ivory for the handles. I use both stock removal and forging practices and produce my own pattern-welded steel (aka damascus). I place a great deal of emphasis on fit and finish. All blades, with the exception of damascus, receive a 'hand-rubbed' satin finish and the handles and furniture are always finished by hand.

Knives made prior to 2011 are etched “B. C. Bennett” in script. Starting in 2011, all knives are stamped “Bennett” using the same style of script. My knives are marked on the 'reverse' side of the blade.

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The What

I am always adding new techniques to the "bag of tricks" with each passing year. My current focus includes metal and wood carving, metal textures and patination, and take down construction. 

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The Who

Me, and YOU. You're looking for something that stands out. You want to support makers who expand horizons and look for ways to separate their work from others. You understand the thoughfulness involved in creating an heirloom...and it's value. You appreciate work that incorporates details and lessons from across disciplines.   

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