"The Montana Bladesmith" Ed Caffrey, ABS Mastersmith

Newest Happenings

2012-01-31T10:30:00.000-07:00

Been a while since updating the Blog, so there's lots to catch up on.

I just returned from the ABS Expo in San Antonio, TX.....was a good show this year.

I have a busy year coming up..... I have already booked several students for Bladesmithing/Knifemaking classes this year, so if you're interested in booking a class with me this year, I would encourage you to get some dates into me. You can visit my Classes Webpage for more information.

I will also be conducting Demos/Teaching at the second annual Southern Alberta Hammer-In, in June, and the ABANA National Conference in July.

This winter I've been working a some new knife designs. I've designed a new "Flipper", which has spawned a new series of knives.....the "Gen2" series. Right now there are two different size folders, along with a large and small "hunter", and I have even created a version in my EBK sized knives. Look for more on the "Gen2" in the coming months.

Along with the Gen2 Knives, I have also designed a knife that I am calling "The Wreck Knife". This knife was designed with horsemen, cowboys, and the farmer/rancher in mind. It is a serrated blade designed specifically for cutting ropes, saddle girths, and other "emergency" needs, without the stabbing hazard of most knives. This knife will be offered in two versions....and economy versions with a cord wrapped handle, and a deluxe version with slab handles of G10, or just about anything as an option. Either version will include a kydex horizontal carry sheath with Tek-Lok belt system. Watch the website for their release.

2011 Blade Show Preview!

2011-05-25T07:55:00.000-06:00

Morning Everyone!

I just finished uploading a Preview of the knives I will have available at this year's Blade Show in Atlanta, GA. June 10-12.

You can view the knives I will have by following this link:
BLADE SHOW PREVIEW

Look forward to seeing everyone in "Hotlanta"!

Wed night knife chat to resume this coming Wed!

2011-03-11T15:30:00.000-07:00

After searching, I have finally found a chat software that I feel will work, and still have the security to toss out the "trolls". After having my web host review the software, we found that my website must be moved to a different server, which should be happening late tonight. If everything goes smoothly, we will be back on for our Wed Night Knife Chat sessions on my website!

You can find me, and other there on Wed nights at 7pm MST, 8pm CST, 9pm EST, and 6pm PST. Come join us for knife chat! Here's a link to the specific page: http://www.caffreyknives.net/Chat.html

You can also get there from my Home page: http://www.caffreyknives.net
and then click on "Wed Night Knife Chat Sessions" in the menu.

Hope to see you there on Wed nights!

Happy New Year to Everyone!! The Latest News from Caffrey Knives!

2011-01-03T09:09:00.000-07:00

Welcome to 2011! I hope the New Year is a great one for Everybody!

I've updated my Website with a few new goodies.

I have posted up some new Knives that are available for immediate delivery. You can view them by following this link: AVAILABLE KNIVES these knives range from Collector to User grade. If you have any questions, please let me know!   You can email me at : CaffreyKnives@Gmail.com

I also have posted some new DAMASCUS WRITING PENS. These pens are all various twist Damascus versions, with 24K gold plated hardware, and cross style refills.

Next up, I currently have three of my ANGLE PEEN FORGING HAMMERS available. All those pictured on the linked page are right handed, small versions, with split hickory handles installed.   I also have two small left handed version hammers that could be completed within a day.

   The final note for this post is about 2011 BLADESMITHING CLASSES. Dates are filling quickly for early in the year! If you're thinking about signing up for any of my Bladesmithing classes in 2011, please email me your intent, with some dates as soon as possible! That way it's more likely that I can get you the dates you desire. If you follow the above link to my Bladesmithing Classes web page, at the bottom of that page you will find a calendar....as dates are filled, I post them on that calendar....you can flip back and forth through the months, and it should help you in determining which dates are available, and which have bee filled. If you have any questions, about any of the items in this post, please feel free to email me or call!

Thanks for all your support and friendship in 2010! I look forward to serving you in 2011!

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL!

2010-12-04T10:01:00.000-07:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EVERYONE!

In the Spirit of Christmas, I am doing something that I have never done before...offering special pricing on my Available Knives from now through Dec. 24th, 2010. I am offering a 15% off on the listed prices for all knives on my Available Knives Web Page.

I have also uploaded a Christmas Greeting page onto my site. Feel free to visit....it's my way of conveying our Thanks and gratitude to everyone! May you have a Blessed Christmas Season, and a Wonderful New Year!

I've been Slacking on the Blog!

2010-11-26T15:05:00.000-07:00

It's been busy, and I just noticed that I haven't posted on my blog all summer!! Well now with winter here, I'd best get on the stick.

Last week we got our first good blast of winter here in Montana. Day time highs in the single digits, and a total of 16" of snow. Although this might bother some, it just means great forging and knifemaking weather for me! :)

My latest trip was to Boise, ID., for the first ever Rocky Mountain Knife show. My hat's off to the promoters, the table holders, and the show patrons.....it was the best overall knife show that I have attended in the last 18 months. Sales were good, but more impressive where the number of folks stopping by my table, shaking my hand, and thanking me for coming to the show. Everyone was enthusiastic, with just a lot of positive energy during the whole affair. I'm already making my plans to attend next year.

Here in the shop I am getting a few orders out the door, and trying to get a few things ready for Christmas. I just completed 4 of my Angle Peen forging hammers, and will have then up on my website and forums over this weekend. I also have a few EBKs, as well as a few knives ready for sale on my Available Knives Page .

With no ABS show, my next show will be The Blade Show next June, so that gives me time this winter to catch up on orders, and to do a little experimenting with new designs and methods.

With 2011 just around the corner, it's a time to celebrate for me. 2011 marks my 25th year as a Bladesmith/Knifemaker. Keep an eye on my website during 2011...I will be making some SPECIAL pieces to commemorate my 25th Anniversary.

Summer time In Montana

2010-06-28T17:04:00.001-06:00

Summer has finally come to Montana…and in a BIG way. We’ve gone from rainy weather and temps in the 40s, to hot, sunny and 90+ degrees….all in the spam of a week!

I’m currently working on orders, and getting some knives ready for the ABS expos in August. Cindy and I will be taking a fishing trip in late July to Vancouver Island with our good friends Jim and Bev Clow of Tilley, AB, Canada! We’re really looking forward to the get away, and all the great fishing!

I do have a few knives that are currently available, both full customs, and some EBKs. Have a look, and if anything interests you, feel free to drop me an email with any questions!

Have a great summer, and look for more posts soon!

2010 Blade Show Preview!

2010-05-26T10:30:00.001-06:00

With the 2010 Blade show only a week away, I finally have my Preview Page up! I’m still running a bit behind with sheaths, and I still have a Persian Style Bowie that is nearly complete, but all the other knives are on the Preview Page.

I’ve changed my selling policy for the show. In past years I have not sold any knives intended for the show until it opened on Friday afternoon. This year I have changed…I will be happy to offer my knives for sale at any time, any place. What that means is that if your interested in any of the pieces I have for the show, I will “hold” it for you. Or, I will sell to you prior to the show. For me to “hold” a knife for you to pick up at the show, I will require a 25% deposit on the knife.

You can also look for me in the “Pit” or at the hotel.

This change has come about because I have “held” knives for a number of individuals in the past, only to have them never show, or show up late on Saturday of the show and tell me “Oh! I forgot”, or “Sorry, I spent all my money.” From now on the policy will be that no knives will be “held”, for anyone, unless I have a deposit from that person.

In addition to the knives show on my Preview Page, I will have a few of my new stainless EBKs, and several Damascus Writing Pens.

Come visit me at table # P5!

Looking forward to seeing you in Atlanta!

Almost Time for the 2010 Blade Show!

2010-05-17T09:13:00.002-06:00

With the 2010 Blade Show only a couple of weeks away, most Knifemakers are hustling to get thing completed….and I’m no exception. Lot’s of shop hours, in hopes of giving folks what they want. This post is basically to inform everyone that I am changing my selling policy for the Blade Show. In previous years my policy has been to NOT sell any knives until the show opens. I adopted this policy because many folks would contact me asking about specific knives I posted on my show preview, with some even asking if I would “hold” a knife until they could get to my table. In short, by trying to accommodate those requests, I turned others away who would have purchased the knife/knives, and the individual(s) who requested I “hold” the knife for them, never showed.
So…Here’s how things will work now…I will sell knives to anyone, at any time. That means if you see a knife on my Show Preview, and you want it, just let me know and, once I receive payment, it’s yours. If you catch me in the hotel or “The Pit” and want a knife, the same applies. It doesn't matter if your a casual buyer, collector, or purveyor.
Look for my Blade Show Preview, on my website within the next week!

The Latest

2010-03-10T09:08:00.000-07:00

Lots of things in the works right now! I currently have a couple of Mosaic Damascus Pens, and two knives that are available for immediate delivery....

You can see all the detail by following this link:   Available Knives

I will soon have some Stainless Steel EBKs and EB3s available. For a couple of months now I have been working on a stainless version of these knives for those who have emailed, me asking for the EBK/EB3 in stainless.   I think I've finally gotten this Sandvik 13C26 steel to the point where I am happy with it. Keep an eye on my EBK Update Page for the new stainless variety of EBKs!

I'm just now beginning my push to the Blade Show. My plan right now is to have 4-6 pieces for the blade show, plus a few EBKs and some Damascus Pens.   We'll see how things go, and hopefully I can meet my goals for the show. I will be placing my Blade Show 2010 knives on a preview page of my website as they are completed. This will give you a chance to look them over.   I generally do not sell any of the knives until the Blade Show opens, HOWEVER, due to several circumstances, this year I will be allowing individuals to either reserve any of the knives for pickup at the Blade show, or even to outright purchase the knife if they choose. More to come!

Next up, I have a number of Angle Peen Hammers rough forged, so if you've been thinking of one of my Angle Peen Hammers, now would be the time to place your name on the order list!

EBKs and Angle Peen Forging Hammers Available

2010-02-14T16:47:00.001-07:00

It’s February in Montana. That means we’re at the peak of our winter season. We’re all looking forward to Spring, and the beginning of the knife show season! I’ve been busy in the shop, teaching classes, and getting order completed and delivered.

I’m healing up well from my recent surgery. I still have some mobility and strength issues with my right shoulder/check, but the Docs say that because of all the muscles they had to cut during the surgery..it will just take a while.

I currently have 2 EBKs available for immediate delivery. One is a high grade version with mosaic damascus and jigged bone. The other is a standard model EBK II (Wharncliff version) with red/black G10 scales. Each comes with a horizontal carry kydex sheath, and these have small sized Tek-Lok belt attachments! You can view them by following this LINK.

I also have 3 Angle Peen Forging Hammers Available. All are right handed models, with split hickory handles. 2 of these hammers are 2lb models, and the other is a 3lb model. I will be getting photos and posting them in the next day or two. I’ll be posting them on my “Available” page. If your interested in either the EBKs or the Forging Hammers, just drop me an email: Caffreyknives@gmail.com

Coming up, I will be teaching at the first Montana Mountain Summit, at ABS Journeyman Steve Kelly’s shop in Bigfork, MT., April 16th & 17th. For information on the Summit, contact Steve Kelly: steve@skknives.com

Then it will be a hard charge to the Blade Show in Atlanta.

Latest Batch of EBKs Now Ready for Delivery!

2010-01-03T19:08:00.001-07:00

The latest batch of EBKs is now ready for delivery. You can see the available knives at the following link:

Available EBKs

As always, these knives will be sold on a first come, First served basis.

Merry Christmas from the Caffrey’s!

2009-12-24T15:14:00.001-07:00

I wanted to wish everyone a very

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Things are going well here. I’m healing up well from my recent lung surgery. I still get tired easily, but that’s only temporary..until I can get myself back in shape. Right after Christmas I should be able to start working on a new thing for me. I’m planning on making a run of my EBKs in a stainless version! Many people have requested my EBKs in stainless, and I’m finally going to do it.

I also have a few EBKs in carbon steel that I will be posting for sale on my website and forums. Keep an eye on my EBK Update Page for their appearance. You can also visit my forums :

Ed’s Forum on The Knife Network

Ed’s Forum on Knife Dogs.com

We wish all of you a Wonderful Christmas, and Blessed New Year!

Getting Recovered and back to work!

2009-12-12T14:07:00.001-07:00

After my recent lung surgery, I have now been cleared by the Docs to go back to work! The hand of God has carried me through this whole situation…immediately following the surgery, the Doc told us that this was a malignant tumor. When the first biopsy came back about a week later, it had turned into a malignant tumor that was non-cancerous. At my first follow up after surgery (Dec 10th), the Surgeon gave us the “final biopsy report, which stated that the tumor was benign and non-cancerous!! My family and I are very grateful and thankful for all the wonderful people who were praying for me, and checking in on us.

Although I’ve been anxious to get going in the shop, I’m finding that its going to take bit to get back to full speed. I did a bit of forge work today, and after a couple of hours had to take a rest. I’m going to TRY to fulfill all of my Christmas commitments, as long as I can keep going. For those who have knives on order, I will be contacting each of you shortly to reconfirm things, and let you know that I’ve not forgotten you! Thank you for being patient during my recent medical issues.

KNIFE NEWS

For a while now I have had folks asking for my EBK knives in stainless steel. I have decided that its time. Within the next month or so you should see some EBKs for sale in Sandvik’s 13C26 steel. I’ll determine the exact price of the Stainless models once a get a couple of them done and can better estimate the overall cost.

Home From the Hospital

2009-11-20T21:13:00.001-07:00

I made it home from the hospital on Wed, 18 Nov. They removed a small portion of my right lung, The biopsy results showed the growth to be non-cancerous! The Doctor tried, but was unable to get to it with the “scope” and had to make about a 10” incision between two ribs, then spread those ribs to gain access. Talk about being sore! I’ve done nothing but sit in my recliner and sleep in my bed for the last two days…just can’t do much else.

I’ve been restricted to basically doing nothing for the next three weeks. Looks like I’ll be spending a lot of time in this recliner, surfing the web. I plan to write some new articles for my website, including one on advice for those presenting knives for their JS or MS tests in Atlanta.

All of my friends in the Knife World have been just wonderful! I simply can’t thank everyone enough for their prayers, well wishes, and support. Its gona be a slow process getting healed up and back in the shop, but I can assure you that I’m already missing it.

To all those who have orders waiting, I may be a month or two behind, but rest assured that I will get back into the shop and get busy on your order(s). I’ll keep everyone update via this Blog, as well as this thread on my Forum at the Knife Network.

Surgery is upon me

2009-11-14T12:55:00.001-07:00

I’ll be going into the hospital on Monday morning, 16 Nov. for surgery. Depending on the outcome, I could be down as little as a couple of weeks, or as long as 6 months. I’m believing in, and praying for the short term recovery. Cindy and I will be keeping everyone updated via my Forum on the Knife Network. Thanks to all who have sent up prayers on our behalf. The support of all my friends in the Knife World has been overwhelming, and very much appreciated!

Stainless Steel from a Bladesmith??

2009-11-08T16:04:00.001-07:00

Thats what I’m getting ready to do. I’ve always resisted using stainless steels, simply because I have always felt that their drawbacks far out weighed their advantages. After much consideration, and a lot of requests, I will be producing a few knives in stainless steel. This is due partially to the fact that there is a segment of clients out there who have placed standing orders with me if I ever made XXX in stainless. Secondly I am currently faced with a situation where I must have surgery, and depending on the out come, I may not be physically able to forge for a while. These factors have given me the incentive.

In the beginning my plan is to produce my EBK series of knives in a stainless version. After a lot of research, I’ve decided that 13C26 from Sandvik will be the steel I go with….at least for now. Due to the limited thickness availability of this steel (.130 is the max thickness its produced in), and IF this type of material sells, I will consider producing other blades such as hunters, and combat styles in stainless versions.

If you have any thoughts on this, please let me know! I’m very interested if folks would be interested in a stainless alternative from me.

October 2009 Update

2009-10-24T08:46:00.001-06:00

Late September and October have been a trying time around the Caffrey household. In Sept I was diagnosed with a kidney stone, and during a CT scan for that, the Docs found a “nodule” on my right lung. Right now the Docs tell us that there is an 80% chance that it non-cancerous, but that makes it none the less scary. I’ve been keeping everyone updated via my internet forum on The Knife Network (Ed’s Forum). The Docs tell me that this thing needs to be removed, and since its in such a location that can only be reached via surgery. I’ll be visiting that Doc next week. What they are telling me right now is that they will go in, get a piece of this thing and biopsy it right in the O.R. If its non-cancerous, they will take only it (its about the size of a quarter). If it shows any signs of cancer they will take the entire upper lobe of my right lung. I would appreciate any prayers that you could offer. I have no doubt that the hand of God has been in this whole affair. Had it not been for the kidney stone, and the associated CT scan, this thing would not have been found, at least until it started bothering me…and by then it would likely have been too late. Seems there has been a rash of things like this lately.

As far as recovery goes, the Docs say that depending on how much of me they have to remove, my rehab/recovery could be as little as 2, or as long as 6 months. Cindy (my Wife) has already laid down the law that I will not be allowed in the forging shop while I’m recovering, but my plan is to get a bunch of things forged out, and hopefully will be able to at least do finish work. As I learn more about this situation, I’ll keep everyone posted.

New Knives Available!

2009-10-04T14:37:00.001-06:00

I currently have a few available pieces on my website. Here’s a peek of what’s available…

View Full Album

You can view all the knives, specs, and prices on my website’s Available Knives Page. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at the email “contact information” listed below the description of each knife.

Its Fall in Montana

2009-10-03T22:01:00.001-06:00

With fall comes hunting season in Montana, this year’s show schedule is complete. I’ve decided that once hunting season is wrapped up, I’m going to venture into a new area. Over the winter I plan to produce and offer a series of stainless steel, stock removal knifes. Right now I am researching steels, and doing some initial tests, to determine the type(s) of stainless steel I want to offer. My intent is to offer stainless varieties of my EBK series of knives, and if those are successful, I will design and implement hunters, and combat/utility knives in stainless.

For the immediate future, I am working on orders, and planning to chase waterfowl with my hunting buddy (my Lab) Hammer. Lately he’s been laying in the backyard, watching the evening flights of ducks and geese, and looking at me as if to say…”Hey! Why aren’t you shooting?!” :)

Bladesmithing Classes for 2010

I will soon be sitting down and beginning to build my 2010 schedule. If your interested in coming to my shop for a Bladesmithing class in 2010, please contact me with the dates you like to attend, and we will work out the details.

Almost Time for Blade Show 09

2009-05-15T08:38:00.002-06:00

I've been a little lax over the past few months with my blog....something I need to correct.

Spring has finally come to Montana. After a final blast of winter (25" of snow in late April), the trees are budding out and the grass is now green! Which just means I trade in my snow shovel for the lawn mower.

Blade Show 09
I've been in scramble mode, getting ready for the 09 Blade Show. This morning I posted a page of my site: Blade Show 09 Preview with most of the knives I will have available at the show. Please have a look and feel free to email me with questions or comments.

I'm looking forward to the Big Sky Hammer In, coming in late June, and hope to see many of you there. Later this summer I'll be taking about a week off for a fishing trip to Canada...something I've wanted to do for most of my adult life.

Montana Circle of American Masters Apprenticeship
I'm still working on the 5 day apprenticeship program for a lucky individual. This program is sponsored by the Montana Arts Council, in which one individual is chosen to work with me, in my shop. The stipulations are that the individual must be a resident of Montana, and be willing to write up their experience for the Montana Arts Council. So far I have narrowed the list down to 3 individuals, and will work out the final choice. This is something that must be accomplished this summer, as the Arts Council has an appropriations deadline of mid July. If your a resident of Montana, and would like to be considered, please contact me via email: Caffreyknives@gmail.com.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-02T09:36:00.005-07:00

Well, another year has come and gone. With all the down turns in the economy, the last three months of 2008 were dismal for most Knifemakers.
2009 arrives with new hope that things will turn around and the economy will see an up swing.

I have updated my website to reflect my 2009 Show Schedule and have installed a new feature on my Bladesmith Classes page... that being a google calendar that reflects all of my commitments for 2009. This should assist those who are interested in taking any classes in 2009. You can click through the months, and see dates that are available for classes. Obviously it will be a continuously updated as individuals schedule classes, so if your considering a class with me in 2009, the sooner we can secure the dates, the better the chances we can get the dates you want.

Since knife sales are slow right now, I am beginning to dabble in Damascus Jewlery...and as I get better at it, I will be posting items for sale. Right now I am concentrating on earrings and necklaces, but also plan various other items as time permits.

I am in the beginning stages of the next batch of EBKs....which should be ready in late Feb/early March. If your interested in EBKs, please email me so I can place your name on the mailing list. I do not take orders on these particular knives, but rather make them in batches of 10-12, and once they are ready, I send out a mass email to everyone on the mailing list. From there they are sold on a first come, first served basis.

Finally, I currently have two knives on my Available Knives page. A very nice hunter with presentation grade Koa handle, and a Dress Version of my "Sonue" folder. Please contact me with any questions or comments.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2008-12-05T13:25:00.002-07:00

Its that time of year again. Everyone is bustling around, and it seems that everyone has lots of things to do.

I just wanted to take the time to wish everyone Merry Christmas! May you know the joys of the season and love of friends and family.

I have placed a Christmas greeting on my website....feel free to have a look!

Fall 2008

2008-10-25T16:45:00.002-06:00

Hello Everyone!

Its been a couple of months since I've posted anything on the Blog. Fall is here, and winter is fast approaching in Montana. I finished up my last show for 08 at Blade West in Portland, and recently returned home from my last teaching gigs of 2008 at Lyle Bronkhorst's place in Bothel, WA.

I'm currently working of filling orders, and plan to do a little hunting soon! WAHOO!

There are some new pieces available for sale on my website, you can find them on my Available Knives Page

I also have three Damascus Writing Pens available, you can see those on my Pen Page

Finally, I recently completed and posted a new Bladesmithing article to my website. After a number of emails from newer makers, and several posts on various forums, I decided to write an article about Marking Your Knives. To read the new article and all the others, visit my Bladesmithing Articles web page.

For those of you who are Hunters, I hope this season brings lots of game, and lots of good times. For those who are not Hunters.......... Are there such people? :)

The "Caffrey Platen is now available!

2008-07-04T18:28:00.001-06:00

I just completed an update to my website....the newest addition is a platen that I designed for the KMG grinder (or any other grinder that uses a 1 1/2" solid square tooling arm). I have been using this platen for a number of years, and have found it to be the most versatile grinder attachment I have ever used. For all the particulars, please visit the Caffrey Platen Web Page.

Website Update....and more

2008-06-24T07:59:00.003-06:00

I just finished updating my website with some new knives on my Available Page.

This coming weekend is the Big Sky Hammer-In, Frenchtown, MT. Along with likely the largest number of ABS Mastersmiths you'll find in one place, I'll be there.

Today I am starting the next batch of EBKs! If all goes well they should be ready within a couple of weeks. If your interested in an EBK, and have not done so, please send me an email with "EBK Mailing List" in the subject line. I do not take orders on these knives, but make a "batch" about every three months. Once I complete a batch, I send out a mass email to all those on the mailing list, and from there they knives are sold on a first come, first served basis.

I will also be building some more forging hammers in the near future. If your interested in a quality forging hammer, please contact me!

I continue to teach Bladesmithing classes, and recently finished a class with Mr. Bruce Barnett from Australia. Although Bruce has only been making knives for 2 years, he is very talented, and I look for great things from him in the future. Thanks Bruce for a wonderful time spent with a great person!

Introducing.... The "Sonue"

2008-06-14T22:29:00.002-06:00

I just finished updating my website, and am introducing my latest folder.....The "Sonue". As with most of my folder models, this one begins its life as an EDC/Utility model. Its a fairly simple design, but because of that fact, it lends itself to many variations. In the future I plan to offer it with bolsters, various handle material options, Damascus blade options, and am currently working on a reduced sized version that I believe will make a wonderful "gents" sized folder in all Mosaic Damascus. You can learn more about it at The Sonue Web Page.

Currently the backlog is fairly small on this new model, but I don't expect it to stay that way for long. If your interested in owning one, please contact me!

After the Blade Show

2008-06-11T20:51:00.002-06:00

The 2008 Blade Show is history now. This year's show was bit better than average for me, although along with that, I did notice that higher end knives were slower moving than I've seen in some time.

After returning home, I rested for a day, then hit the shop and completed the first in my next series of folders. With design help from the Client, my newest model folder, The "Sonue" has come to life. It will be introduced on my web site within the next week. I had intended to release it sooner, but have a few things that need doing before I offer it to the general public. As with most of my folders, this model begins life as a utility/EDC folder, but because of it's design elements, I believe it will be a very versatile design, and plan on creating not only working models, but also mid-range and even full out Mosaic Damascus versions. As with my Progression folders, I intend to offer this one in a couple of different sizes. Stay tuned to my website for more details coming soon.

Monday morning I started a class with Mr. Bruce Barnett from Australia. Bruce has been a maker for only a couple of years, but the knowledge and skills he already possesses is making my job of teaching easy. He's a quick study, and a load of talent. Keep your eye on this guy...he has much potential.

As with a lot of others, I'm looking forward to the Big Sky Hammer-In, 28-29 June at Josh Smith's place in Frenchtown, MT. If your looking for a great time with a load of talented makers, and likely more ABS Mastersmiths than you'll find in one place (outside of the Blade Show), then you need to be there. I know I will!

As far as shows, I'll be getting ready for the Montana Knifemaker's Show (in August), and then the push to my final show of the year, Blade West in Portland, OR in Sept. Early October will likely find me in Bothell, WA., teaching at Lyle Bronkhorst's fall class/Hammer-In. WOW! Where has the year gone to!? Before long it will be time to tune up Hammer (my yellow Lab) and get ready to chase waterfowl and other game. :)

Finally, Friday evening Knife Chat, hosted at www.Iforgeiron.com is going strong. Every Friday evening at 8pm MST, we spend a hour talking nothing but knives. The discussion is open to everyone, so if you have the time, stop by....it might just become a regular for you!

The Blade Show is upon us!

2008-05-25T07:30:00.002-06:00

The 2008 Blade Show is less than a week away! As with most Makers, I'm in the "last minute rush".....but not nearly as bad as in the past. I am currently finishing up some kydex sheaths for EBKs, but once they are completed, I just need to pack my bags and jump on the plane.

This year I will have my usual number of knives available (7).... along with a couple of extras. You can visit my Blade Show Preview and see what will be on my table. In addition to those knives on the Preview page, I will have two EBK IIs, Two Progression II Folders, and several Damascus Writing pens.

I will also have a few copies of my videos available at the show. I'll be located at TABLE O-9, so come by and say Hi!

Looking Forward to Seeing everyone in "Hotlanta"!

The Latest from Caffrey Knives

2008-04-30T07:50:00.002-06:00

Its been a very busy month. With my Dad's passing last summer, we finally got my Mom moved from Kentucky to Montana. On 15 April Mom and I flew to Kentucky, rented a Uhaul, and made the cross-country trip to bring all of her belongings to Montana. After 4 days on the road, through a couple of spring snow storms, we made it home and within a few days had her set up in housekeeping at her new home.

I am currently charging hard to get things ready for The Blade Show in Atlanta. Hopefully I will have 5-8 knives for sale at the show.

I am also working on a brand new folder design, which will be released within the next month.....hopefully I will have one or two at Blade.

Right now I have a student in the shop.....Brad Singley from Georgia. Brad first visited me 3 years ago for a handles/guards class prior to taking his ABS JS test, and we have since become close friends. Brad has evolved to the level where he is ready to tackle Damascus steel, and is here for a week to learn what little I can teach him about it.

Look forward to visiting with everyone at the the Blade Show and International Cutlery Fair, May 30-Jun 1 at the Cobb Country Galleria in Atlanta, GA!

3 EBKs Available from the most recent batch

2008-03-05T09:01:00.003-07:00

There are only three (3) EBKs reamaining from most recent batch.... Two (2) EBK IIs (Wharncliff version) and one (1) EBK I (drop point version). All have Blue/Black G10 handles, and come with a horizontal carry kydex sheath. Cost is $185 each, plus $10 Shipping within the U.S. (outside the U.S. contact me for shipping costs)
Due to shows and other commitments, the next batch will likely not be completed before mid-summer, so if your interested in purchasing one of the remaining EBKs from the current batch, contact me at Caffreyknives@gmail.com.

EBKs Ready for Delivery!

2008-02-28T07:40:00.002-07:00

I just finished up the latest batch of EBKs. There are 12 knives in this batch. All are differentially heat treated 1080 steel, with G-10 handles. This batch contains the following:

2- EBK I (drop point) with Solid Green G-10 handles
2- EBK I (drop point) with Black/Gray G-10 handles
4- EBK I (drop point) with Blue/Black G-10 handles
4- EBK II (Wharncliff version) with Blue/Black G-10 handles

For additional information, please visit the EBK page on my website at the following link:

EBK Web Page

I have sent emails to all those on the EBK mailing list, but a large number of those emails were undeliverable. If you are on the EBK mailing list and wish to stay on the list, please send me an email with your updated email address. I will be purging the list of all the failed email addresses within the next few days.

EBKs and Progression Folders

2008-02-12T09:23:00.000-07:00

I am currently working on the next batch of EBKs. This batch will contain 8 drop points, and 4 wharncliffs. I'm projecting them to be ready by the end of February. If your not on the mailing list, and would like to be, please send me an email (Caffreyknives@gmail.com) with "EBK Mailing List" in the subject line, and I will add your name to the list. When this batch is completed, I will be sending out a mass email to all those on the list. From there the EBKs will be sold on a first come, first served basis, using the date/time stamps on the replies I receive. For more information on EBKs you can visit my website.... EBK Update

I am also in the process of making some Progression folders, which are intended to fill orders that currently are on the books. For those who have Progression orders with me.....they are in the process. If you have any questions, please feel free to drop me and email or call. You can find my contact information here.

Available Knives and Update on Bladesmithing Classes

2008-02-04T18:20:00.000-07:00

New Knives Available!
I wanted to let everyone know that I have knives available! You can view them by following this link: Available Knives

Bladesmithing Classes Update:
If you are thinking of taking a Bladesmiting Class with me in 2008, please get your desired dates to me as soon as possible. Currently I am booked up through August 08. With shows in August and Sept., it is likely that the next available dates will be in Oct 08. So if you would like to take a class in 2008, let me know! For more information on classes, please see by website: Bladesmithing Classes

Next batch of EBKs coming soon:
I have started the next batch of EBKs, and project them to be completed before the end of Febuary. If your not already on the EBK Mailing list, and would like to be, please send me an email, with "EBK Mailing List" in the subject line. I do not take orders on EBKs, but try to make a "batch" of 10-12 every 3-4 months. When the batch is completed, I send out a mass email to everyone on the mailing list, and from there the knives are sold on a first come, first served basis, utilizing the date/time stamps on the replies I receive.
For more information on EBKs please follow this link: EBK Update

Reno is over, New Knives Available, working on orders

2008-02-01T07:30:00.000-07:00

The ABS Expo in Reno, NV. is history. In 2009 the show will be moving to San Antonio, TX, with new show dates... August 21-22.
I have attended the ABS Reno show every year (except one) since it's beginning. Its always a very classy show, but over the years sales have dwindled. The first year I attended, I was sold out within 30 Mins of the door opening, and each successive year sales slowed bit by bit. I'm very happy to see the show moving to a new location, and look forward to a very successful show in San Antonio.

I have a some new pieces on my Available Knives Page These knives are ready for immediate delivery. Please feel free to take a look, and be sure to contact me if you have any questions.

The next couple of months will be busy ones for me. I have students coming in, and orders to fill. I also will be trying to get a head start on knives for this year's Blade Show.

I'm also looking forward to hosting a knife chat room on http://www.IforgeIron.com starting this evening at 8pm MST. As of now, the plan is to hold a dedicated knife chat every Friday evening at the same time/place.

Stay tuned, as news happens I'll be posting it here!

Take Care for Now!

Final two for Reno...

2008-01-18T22:01:00.000-07:00

I finished up my final two knives that will be available at the ABS Reno Expo, Jan 25-26, in Reno,NV. I'm not really sure how to act now...I'm usually rushing right up till the last minute trying to get things done. I will have a total of 6 pieces available for sale at the show. You can view the entire selection on my website at the following link...
ABS Expo Preview

Hope to see you in Reno!

New Location for Friday evening Knife Chat Room

2008-01-15T08:54:00.001-07:00

NEW LOCATION FOR KNIFE CHAT! Starting 1 Feb 08, my knife chat will have a new home. The chat software I have is not the best, and with more and more people showing up for chat, has become antiquated for our purposes. The knife chat will be moving to IForgeIron.com This will allow an unlimited number of people to participate, and provide a much nicer interface for everyone. It will require that you sign up on IForgeIron.com if your not already a member, but that is painless and easy. At the top of the page, simply click on the "Chat" tab, and it will take you to the chat room. There is also a link directly to the IForgeIron home page from my website, just click on the Chat Room link at the upper left hand side of the main page.
All the same rules apply as the chat on my site. PLEASE! If you do not use your real name when signing on, please identify yourself when you enter the chat room, that way everyone knows who they are talking with. This will also expose a larger number of folks to the knowledge that we have to offer on Bladesmithing. Please join us on 1 Feb 08, at 10pm eastern, 9pm central, 8pm mountain, 7pm pacific time for knife chat at its new home! Look forward to seeing you there!

ABS Reno Expo 08 Preview

2008-01-13T18:05:00.000-07:00

I just finished putting up a preview page of the knives I will have available at the ABS Reno Expo. January 25-26, 2008. I am also finishing up two additional knives, one 1084 Hunter, and an all Mosaic Damascus Folder. Once I get them completed, and photos taken, I will post those on the page as well.

Follow this link to view the knives: ABS Expo Preview

Hope to see you in Reno!!

2008 Bladesmithing Classes

2008-01-10T16:19:00.000-07:00

2008 Bladesmithing class dates are filling up very quickly. As of today, I am booked up until the middle of July 08. If your thinking about coming to Montana for a class this year, please get with me soon with the dates you'd like. For more on the classes I offer, and the costs, please visit my website..... Bladesmithing Classes

I haven't listed it on the website yet, but I am also offering a class on linerlock folders. If that sounds like it might interest you, drop me an email for details.

Welcome to the Blog

2008-01-10T14:46:00.000-07:00

For a while now I have consider a blog to help keep everyone informed on whats going on with me, this is my first attempt at a blog, so bear with me, and hopefully we can have some fun here.

Currently I'm hard at work, getting ready for the ABS Reno Expo, which will be held January 25-26 in Reno, NV. at the Silver Legacy hotel/casino.

As I write this it looks like I will have a total of 5 knives for sale at the show. As I complete them I will have photos posted on my website. Descriptions of the knives are as follows:

1. Mosaic Damascus Bowie, with carved/textured Fossil Walrus ivory handle, "half penny" S guard. All the hardward is engraved and hot blued.

2. Mosaic Damscus Trialing point hunter, with carved/textured fossil walrus ivory handle, nickel silver guard.

3. Mosaic Damascus Drop Point hunter, with carved/textured presentation grade desert ironwood handle, and carved nickel sliver guard.

4. All Moasic Damascus folder with titanium liners, inset rubies, and engraving.

5. This one is a step out there for me.... A clay hardened 52100 bowie, with silver wrap on the ricasso, titanium guard, buttcap, and a carved/textured handle of African Blackwood.

I glued up #5 this morning, and am working on sheaths for the rest. As I get them done, I'll be posting photos on my website.

MORE TO COME....