Bob DeMarco showcases the ancient art of Japanese handle wrapping (tsukamaki) on modern tactical knives in this comprehensive episode. From daily carry updates to breaking knife news including Delaware\'s switchblade ban repeal and new releases from GiantMouse, TOPS, and We Knife Company, this packed show covers it all.

The main segment features nine stunning knives with traditional Japanese wraps from makers like Savage Creature Defense Tools, Bright For War Knives, Aaron Bieber, and more. Learn how centuries-old samurai techniques provide superior grip and weapon retention on today\'s cutting-edge designs.

Bob explains the functional benefits, construction methods, and artistic beauty of these wrapped handles that combine traditional craftsmanship with modern materials.

Find the list of all the knives shown in the show and links to the Knife Life news stories at https://theknifejunkie.com/605.

Support the Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives. You can also support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details.

Let us know what you thought about this episode and leave a rating and/or a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email [email protected] with any comments, feedback, or suggestions.

To watch or listen to past episodes of the podcast, visit https://theknifejunkie.com/listen. And for professional podcast hosting, use The Knife Junkie\'s podcast platform of choice: https://theknifejunkie.com/podhost.

Join host Bob DeMarco on Episode 604 of The Knife Junkie Podcast as he sits down with Eddie of OEG EDC (One Eyed Ghost), one of the most exciting new voices in knife making. In just three years, Eddie has transformed from a tattoo artist working in a titanium anodizing shop to a full-time knife maker creating innovative fixed blades and folders that are turning heads at major knife shows across the country.

This episode reveals Eddie's unique journey from pandemic hobby to thriving business, starting with simple EDC accessories like his Pennsylvania-themed Keystone bottle opener and Good Luck pry bar. Learn how his background in tattooing and titanium finishing gives him a distinctive edge in both design and execution, and discover the creative passion that drives every piece he creates.

Eddie's honest discussion about overcoming imposter syndrome while learning every aspect of the craft provides valuable insights for aspiring makers and collectors alike.

Eddie shares the technical details behind his popular Windsor folder with its sophisticated ceramic bearing system and interchangeable scales, as well as his compact Pike fixed blade designed for maximum EDC utility. Also, get an exclusive look at his experimental bike knife prototype -- a skeletonized design specifically created for cyclists that showcases his ability to identify niche markets and create targeted solutions.

The conversation also explores his innovative approach to knife shows, including his memorable East Coast pizza shop themed booth at Blade Show 2024 that doubled his foot traffic.

From CAD design and CNC manufacturing to the challenges of scaling production while maintaining quality, this episode offers rare insights into the modern knife making business. Eddie's philosophy of treating customers as he wants to be treated, combined with his creative marketing approach and commitment to American manufacturing, makes him a standout figure representing the future of the knife community.

Whether you're an aspiring maker, serious collector, or simply appreciate innovative craftsmanship, this conversation provides inspiration and practical insights into succeeding in today's competitive market.

Find Eddie of OEG EDC online at https://www.oegedc.com as well as on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/oegedc. 

Be sure to support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details. You can also support The Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives.

Let us know what you thought about this episode and leave a rating or a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email [email protected] with any comments, feedback, or suggestions.

To watch or listen to past episodes of the podcast, visit https://theknifejunkie.com/listen. And for professional podcast hosting, use The Knife Junkie's podcast platform of choice: https://theknifejunkie.com/podhost.

Join host Bob DeMarco in Episode 603 of The Knife Junkie Podcast as he welcomes ABS Master Bladesmith Aaron Wilburn of Wilburn Forge for an in-depth conversation about the art and science of traditional bladesmithing. Aaron's journey began with a chance discovery in a Barnes & Noble bookstore in 2003, leading to a career creating some of the most sought-after Damascus steel knives in the world.

In this comprehensive interview, Aaron shares the technical secrets behind his stunning Turkish twist Damascus patterns, his unconventional business philosophy of creating art rather than filling orders, and the rigorous path to becoming an ABS Master Bladesmith. From his early mentorship with Cliff Parker and Corbin Newcomb to developing his own distinctive style, Aaron's story illustrates the dedication required to master this ancient craft in the modern world.

Aaron discusses his sophisticated heat treatment processes, including cryogenic treatment for superior edge retention, and explains why he sacrifices 90% of his starting material to achieve the perfect Damascus patterns. His artistic approach to knife making - including pieces that have caught the attention of Joe Rogan - demonstrates how traditional skills can create modern masterpieces.

The conversation covers the demanding ABS certification process, from the journeyman performance tests requiring blades to chop through 2x4s and bend 90 degrees without breaking, to the master bladesmith challenge of creating a fluted-handle quillian dagger. Aaron's insights into the metallurgy of Damascus steel, the importance of proper equipment like his 8,000-pound Chambersburg hammer, and his philosophy of continuous learning provide valuable guidance for aspiring bladesmiths.

Listen to this episode and discover why Aaron's commitment to artistic integrity and technical excellence has established him as one of the premier bladesmiths of his generation. Learn more about this episode at https://www.theknifejunkie.com/603 and follow Aaron's work at Wilburn Forge on Instagram @wilburnforge.

Be sure to support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details.

You can also support The Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives. Let us know what you thought about this episode and leave a rating and/or a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email [email protected] with any comments, feedback, or suggestions.

To watch or listen to past episodes of the podcast, visit https://theknifejunkie.com/listen. And for professional podcast hosting, use The Knife Junkie's podcast platform of choice: https://theknifejunkie.com/podhost.

Host Bob DeMarco returns from Blade Show 2025 with his complete knife haul breakdown - 19 incredible pieces ranging from custom fixed blades to innovative production folders. He provides insights into acquisitions from makers like TKell Knives, Dirk Pinkerton, DC Blades, the Very Good Knife Company, and more!

The episode also features an exciting unboxing of the new Jack Wolf Tango, the first modern flipper from the JW Collab line

Bob also reveals the June Gentleman Junkie giveaway - a stunning Northern Knives/Colorful Filth Benchmade Bailout with custom anodizing. And in his "State of the Collection," Bob shows off the new Fisher Blades Beckwith FS.

From tactical designs to family-friendly options, this episode showcases the incredible diversity and innovation happening in today's knife community.

Find the list of all the knives shown in the show and links to the Knife Life news stories at https://theknifejunkie.com/602.

Support the Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives. You can also support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details.

Let us know what you thought about this episode and leave a rating and/or a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email [email protected] with any comments, feedback, or suggestions.

To watch or listen to past episodes of the podcast, visit https://theknifejunkie.com/listen. And for professional podcast hosting, use The Knife Junkie's podcast platform of choice: https://theknifejunkie.com/podhost.

Bob DeMarco reports from Blade Show 2025 in Atlanta on episode 601 of The Knife Junkie Podcast. He has eight interviews from the Blade Show floor, plus he looks at several new knives (both purchases and gifts), including the TKell Knives PD-1, the Edgy American Junkie, and the Guardian Tactical Blade Show Exclusive, among others.

In his pocket check of knives, it's the the knives he brought to Blade Show: the Civivi Synergy 4 and his trusty Victorinox Compact.

Bob talked to numerous knife makers, including several interviews from the floor, including:

• Brent Smith - Bald Man Knife & Tool

• Sharif Manganas - Manganas Steel

• Jess Hoffman - J. Hoffman Knives

• Jarrod Franklin - Gunfighter Customs

• Ben Belkin - Jack Wolf Knives

• Dirk Pinkerton - Pinkerton Knives

• Justin Carvin & Chris Harrison - DC Blades

• Michael Jarvis - Auxiliary Manufacturing

Meanwhile, in his State of the Collection, Bob looks at his new pickups from Blade:

• TKell Knives PD-1 featuring a Knives by Nuge handle wrap

• Bald Man Knife & Tool Sicario

• Pinkerton Knives Custom Fighter

• Brock Blades/Joe Watson Magni XL

• Manganas Steel Aurelia

• Gunfighter Customs Gunfighter and Trainer

• Auxiliary Manufacturing Mini Spike

• Edgy American Junkie

• Guardian Tactical Blade Show Exclusive

• DC Blades Sting 

• DC Blades Nameless

• DC Blades Glaurung

• Ameight Ringed Pikal

• TOPS Medusa

Find the list of all the knives shown in the show and links to the Knife Life news stories at https://theknifejunkie.com/601.

Support the Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives. You can also support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details.

Let us know what you thought about this episode and leave a rating and a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email [email protected] with any comments, feedback, or suggestions.

To watch or listen to past episodes of the podcast, visit https://theknifejunkie.com/listen. And for professional podcast hosting, use The Knife Junkie's podcast platform of choice: https://theknifejunkie.com/podhost.

Join Bob DeMarco for a special milestone celebration as The Knife Junkie Podcast hits episode 600! This landmark show features an in-depth look at 15 exceptional American-made folding knives, from tactical classics like the Hinderer XM-24 to modern marvels like the Microtech Amphibian.

Bob shares his personal experiences with each knife, covers the latest releases from Spyderco and Bestech, and showcases new arrivals from Dirk Pinkerton and APOC Survival.

And in his pocket check of knives, he's got the Zero Tolerance 0200, a Victorinox Compact, the TKell Knives Agent 001, and the Work Tuff Gear Steadfast (Emotional Support Knife).

Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to quality knives, this episode celebrates the innovation and craftsmanship that makes American knife manufacturing the world's gold standard.

Find the list of all the knives shown in the show and links to the Knife Life news stories at https://theknifejunkie.com/600.

Support the Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives. You can also support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details.

Let us know what you thought about this episode and leave a rating and/or a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email [email protected] with any comments, feedback, or suggestions.

To watch or listen to past episodes of the podcast, visit https://theknifejunkie.com/listen. And for professional podcast hosting, use The Knife Junkie's podcast platform of choice: https://theknifejunkie.com/podhost.

Join host Bob DeMarco for an inspiring conversation with Roger Pearson, the artist behind Savage Creature Defense Tools, who made a dramatic overnight transition from professional tattoo artist to full-time knife maker. After 26 years in the tattoo industry, Pearson closed his Florida shop and moved to Ohio to pursue his lifelong passion for blade crafting, creating what he calls "dangerous functional art."

In this detailed interview, Pearson shares how his background in Japanese tattoo artistry directly influences his knife designs, from the intricate tsukamaki wrapping on his handles to the curved profiles of his popular Masako series. Named after Japan's first female shogun, the Masako knives feature neutral handles that work effectively in any grip orientation, reflecting Pearson's understanding of Libre knife fighting principles and practical defensive applications.

The conversation covers Pearson's technical approach to knife making, including his favorite knife steel, his unique hand-wrapping techniques, and the mysterious "Stormlands" finish he's developed. Listeners will gain insights into both the artistic and practical aspects of custom knife making, from design philosophy to heat treatment challenges, all delivered with Pearson's straightforward, no-nonsense perspective.

Pearson's story also highlights the supportive nature of the knife making community, where established makers help newcomers succeed through mentorship, tool sharing, and collaborative projects. His advice for aspiring knife makers emphasizes the importance of jumping in and learning through doing, rather than waiting for perfect conditions that might never come.

Whether you're interested in the technical aspects of knife making, the business side of transitioning careers, or simply enjoy hearing from passionate craftspeople, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Pearson's journey from tattoo shop to blade shop proves that with dedication, community support, and willingness to take risks, it's possible to successfully pursue your passions at any stage of life.

Find Roger Pearson and Savage Creature Defense Tools on Instagram at www.instagram.com/savagecreaturedefensetools and on his private Facebook group.

Be sure to support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details. You can also support The Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives.

Let us know what you thought about this episode and leave a rating and/or a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email [email protected] with any comments, feedback, or suggestions.

To watch or listen to past episodes of the podcast, visit https://theknifejunkie.com/listen. And for professional podcast hosting, use The Knife Junkie's podcast platform of choice: https://theknifejunkie.com/podhost.

Join Bob "The Knife Junkie" DeMarco for an epic tour of his nearly complete Off-Grid Knives folder collection!

From budget-friendly D2 models to premium titanium Elite series, discover why these tactical folders offer incredible value and cutting performance. Bob shares real-world experience with each model, from the unique Raptor's forward recurve to the premium Black Mamba V3 in MagnaCut steel.

Plus coverage of the latest industry news including new releases from Zero Tolerance, Civivi, Kershaw, and WE Knife, along with incredible custom modifications from Snaggletooth Tactical and K-Mods.

Whether you're new to Off-Grid (affiliate link) or a longtime fan, this comprehensive overview will help you understand why these knives punch above their weight class in both performance and value.

Find the list of all the knives shown in the show and links to the Knife Life news stories at https://theknifejunkie.com/598.

Support the Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives. You can also support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details.

Let us know what you thought about this episode and leave a rating and/or a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email [email protected] with any comments, feedback, or suggestions.

To watch or listen to past episodes of the podcast, visit https://theknifejunkie.com/listen. And for professional podcast hosting, use The Knife Junkie's podcast platform of choice: https://theknifejunkie.com/podhost.

In Episode 597 of The Knife Junkie Podcast, host Bob DeMarco showcases 10 large ethnically-inspired knives from his collection, explaining their cultural origins, designs, and applications. From the American Bowie to the Turkish Yatagan, Bob reveals how different cultures developed unique blade styles for specific needs.

The episode also features the latest knife news including Bald Man Knife & Tool's collaboration with Boker, Civivi's new Buster FG with SNECX, Jack Wolf Knives' first collaboration, and CRKT's re-released Razel folder. Additionally, Bob performs his weekly pocket check and shows off some custom Pikal blades from Failed Negotiation Knives.

Find the list of all the knives shown in the show and links to the Knife Life news stories at https://theknifejunkie.com/597.

Support the Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives. You can also support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details.

Let us know what you thought about this episode and leave a rating and/or a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email [email protected] with any comments, feedback, or suggestions.

To watch or listen to past episodes of the podcast, visit https://theknifejunkie.com/listen. And for professional podcast hosting, use The Knife Junkie's podcast platform of choice: https://theknifejunkie.com/podhost.

On episode 596 of The Knife Junkie Podcast, Bob DeMarco speaks with Jess Hoffman of J. Hoffman Knives. Jess is a Northeast Wisconsin knifemaker who has transformed his hobby into a part-time career, making heirloom quality fixed blade knives from scratch for outdoor enthusiasts.

His first knife was made with nothing but a file and elbow grease, but today he runs a fully-equipped shop producing knives that sell out at retailers like Knives Ship Free.

Jess shares insights into his knife-making process, from his preference for heat treating before grinding to his philosophy on creating knives as functional tools rather than display pieces. His designs, many named after Irish counties as a nod to his family heritage, focus on ergonomics and practical use. Unlike many knife makers who aim to go full-time,

Jess is content keeping his craft as a supplementary passion that will eventually support his retirement.

The conversation covers the technical aspects of knife making, including steel selection, handle materials, and grind styles, along with business strategies and Jess's experiences at Blade Show. Listeners will appreciate his advice for new makers, emphasizing the value of mentorship and hands-on learning over YouTube tutorials.

Find Jess online at jhoffmanknives.com and on Instagram at @jhoffmanknives.

Be sure to support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details. You can also support The Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives.

Let us know what you thought about this episode and leave a rating and/or a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email [email protected] with any comments, feedback, or suggestions.

To watch or listen to past episodes of the podcast, visit https://theknifejunkie.com/listen. And for professional podcast hosting, use The Knife Junkie's podcast platform of choice: https://theknifejunkie.com/podhost.