Hey all, it has been a while since I put out a new 5 from the Grinder. There is a reason for that, our queue is about empty. I would like to get back to running one every couple of weeks, but to do that I need new makers to participate. So if you are a maker yourself, visit this link to find out how to be featured yourself. Or, if you have a favorite custom maker, send them the link so they can grow their audience.
Today’s maker, John Best (John Best Handmade Knives), is not a maker I know personally. Rather, he came across the link and entered himself. I can’t give you many details of his background myself, but if he lists Pappy O’Machearly as one of his mentors, he can’t be a bad guy. Pappy is good people. I have one of his slipjoints.
Without further ado, here is John Best…
Please introduce yourself and let us know what led you to making/designing knives
My name is John Best. I kinda came into knife making through the backdoor. I started off as a collector and avid hunter. After looking around for what I wanted in a skinning knife and not being able to find it, I found a maker who I really liked and one thing lead to another and I got invited to his shop to make “my” knife. After completing my knife I realized two things; One, I was completely hooked and two, I could do this.
What knifemaker(s) or designer(s) have had the biggest influence on you? Do you have any mentors?
Sean Kendrick is the maker I hold responsible for my affliction. And I have two mentors, Michael “Pappy” O’Machearly and George Trout.
What is your favorite knife pattern or style from history?
Being that I’m a hunter, the classic Bob Loveless 4 inch drop point is one of my favorites. Also Randall knives are a big influence.
What is the next big thing in knifemaking? / What direction do you see the industry going?
I see the continued evolution of folding knives as the next big thing. I see the knife industry moving towards the use of premium steels in factory knives.
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?
Any of my hunting knives, they are all over built to the extreme, and feature tapered tangs.
What is your EDC and why?
My EDC is either my “Gambler” model or a CRKT, Paul Crawford Design “Point Guard”.
Find out more:
Website:
www.johnbestknives.com
Instagram:
John Best Handmade Knives
Your Facebook
John Best Handmade Knives
Email:
jcbest2000(at)yahoo.com
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