My small shop has taken over the upstairs of my garage.  In it is two band saws, a drill press, several vises, a disc sander, 4 belt sanders, a table saw, 3 buffing wheels and lots of misc. files, jigs, hand tools and a rotary tool.  There is no milling machine or any other production machine.  My knives are all hand tooled and fitted.

I am also working on a small smithy behind the shed.  Right now, I have to drag my forge and anvil out for each use but by this summer I will have a working smithy.  My forging tools are basic as well.  I have an assortment of hammers, tongs and vices I use as well as a small assortment of hardy tools for my two anvils.  My forges are hand built and propane fired. 

I use a large assortment of steel types for the blades I made.  I make all my blades from scratch and so they are all one of a kind.  I prefer carbon steel and make most of my knives out of different grades but will use stainless if requested.

I currently have 1095, W-1, 5160, l-6, 1080, O-1, 52100, CPM S30V,  CPM 154CM, 154 CM, and ATS-34 on hand.  I will be adding to this selection as I work out different heat treats for the many steels out there. 

I also like to recycle and keep a selection of steels that are of unknown type to me on hand.  I have tested and worked with all of these steels and can make a fine knife with them as well.  Some people (such as myself) prefer to put old junk back into service and this is an option.  These blades are tested and given the same care and pride as any steel I use.  I currently have a selection of saw blades, buggy springs and mower blades that have produces fine working knives that have very nice personalities.

A comfortable handle is very important for a working knife.  I take the time to get the right feel for each knife I make.  I use a number of different materials.  I keep a good supply of burls as well as many other exotic and local wood choices on hand.  All wood handles are stabilized in house.  I also use antler, horn, micarta, and stacked leather.  Some handles are determined by the blade choice but I can put almost any material on your knife handle.

I like to have a guard on my knives.  Nearly all the knives I make will have a guard.  I will make them without on your request but the cost to add a guard is well worth the extra protection to your hands and the looks of your custom knife.  I use stainless steel, and brass as a general rule but have played with aluminum and copper.  If you dont specify, your knife will be made with a brass guard.