Greetings fellow People of the Knife…
Today we bring you our latest installment of 5 from the Grinder, our quick format interview series which dates all the way back to David Andersen and my days back at TTAK. In it we combine answers with examples of the maker’s work, and links to find out more. If you are a maker yourself who would like to participate, you can visit this link to find out more.
Our latest installment brings us Brandon Williams, an Idaho maker whom I don’t personally know, but have a mutual friend with in Eddy Martinez of Orbital Knives. Under Brandon’s tutelage, Eddy recently made his first knife, and judging by the quality, we can add teacher to the list of descriptors Brandon outlines in his introduction.
Take it away Brandon…
Please introduce yourself and let us know what led you to making/designing knives
My name is Brandon Williams, I am from Blackfoot, ID. I have been making knives for over 15 years. I am a US Army veteran and Forged in Fire Champion. I was on the Slasher edition which featured the Grim Reapers Scythe as the final weapon.
I have always loved knives. I wanted to be able to make a knife that fits me. Being able to design and make something from scratch is pretty cool!
What knifemaker(s) or designer(s) have had the biggest influence on you? Do you have any mentors?
I can’t speak of any mentor other than just getting the itch to make my own style of knives.
What is your favorite knife pattern or style from history?
I really like Bowie knives. Partially because of the shape but mainly because of the size. I like big blades. I love making big choppers or “Slasher” blades!
What is the next big thing in knifemaking? / What direction do you see the industry going?
I’m not sure what the next big thing is. I would just love for all the sharp and pointy things to be celebrated. The knife community is full of awesome talent and good people.
Is there a knife from your lineup that you feel best exhibits who you are as a knifemaker/designer in terms of design elements, aesthetic or techniques used?
My Snake River knife has always been a favorite. It was one of the first designs I made. It has an awesome shape and the size is perfect for a multitude of tasks. Including taking apart big game, which is one of my favorite things to do.
What is your EDC and why?
Right now my EDC is a Pro tech TR5 (I don’t make folders)and one of my mini Reapers in S90V. I carry those more than anything because they just work for me.
Find out more:
Website: 4boutdoors.com
Instagram: 4b_outdoors
Facebook: Facebook.com/4boutdoors
Email: 4boutdoors(at)gmail.com
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