Raymond L. Smith Owner / Operator

       Born and raised in the Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York.

       And worked as a precision machinist for 37 years.Started 

       blacksmithing in 1976 making items for buck skinners. I met knife maker Billy Watson at a rendezvous in 1988; he was making Damascus and hand forging knives. I was hooked, quizzed Billy, visited his shop, 

       purchased books and attended seminars. Started making knives in 

       1989 and sold my first in 1991. Joined the ABS and proceeded toward 

       my Master's certificate, awarded in 1998. Was chosen to make the 

       1999 Journeyman Smith Knife of the Year. 

I prefer to make knives that are functional and that relate to the older patterns. My favorite for steel is 5160, for Damascus 15N20 and 1084, I utilize chain and cable also. Most knives are file worked. Also make traditional Hawks.

Slip joint folders in the Barlow style are another favorite.

Natural and Stabilized materials for handle material.