I was trained as a sculptor and feel the same sensibilities which are incumbent in formal sculpture are also an integral part of my knives. The special consideration and challenge of utility is equally important. The knife must work visually as well as function as a precision tool.

There are many types of alloy steel used for making knife blades. I use 440-C and D-2.

440-C is a popular custom blade steel that is considered a "stainless" steel. Because 440-C has a high percentage of chromium as well as some nickle in its makeup it has superior corrosion resistance.

D-2 is a high carbon die steel that is considered a first class blade steel. It offers both excellent edge holding ability, toughness and abrasion resistance. Because it has a high chromium content it is resistant to staining and rust. One should remember that a blade made of D-2 steel still requires care and maintenance.

All my knife blades are made using the stock removal method. I begin with a bar of steel, cut out the blade pattern and grind it to the final shape. After the blade has been ground it must then be heat treated which is a process used to impart special qualities like hardness, ductility and toughness to the steel. This is done by heating the blade to a specific temperature and cooling it at a certain rate depending on the alloy of the steel. I send all blades made of D-2 and 440-C to a custom heat treating shop since these steels require special equipment to be hardened and tempered properly.

I use a variety of hardwoods and synthetic materials for my handles. The hardwoods I use most frequently are Cocobolo (dalbergia hypoleuca) and Ebony Macassar (diospyros macassar).

Synthetic materials i ønclude Micarta, and Pakkawood. Micarta is a product of the electronics industry used to make printed circuit boards. It is a laminate of paper or linen bonded with resin. It is an excellent handle material since it is very tough and will tolerate heat and moisture without swelling or spliting. White Micarta is called "ivory micarta" because it so closely resembles real ivory or bone. It is very popular with elephants.

Pakkawood is similar to micarta. It is a laminate of Birch that has been dyed and bonded with resin under pressure to form a material that is resistant to moisture and heat.

All bolsters and handle pins are solid brass or sterling silver.

1. Hand wash and dry the blades after use.
2. Wipe blade frequently wi oth a damp cloth when cutting acetic foods.
3. A light coating of vegetable oil will help protect the blade and keep wood handles shiny.
4. Do not store knives in anything that will absorb moisture.
5. Always cut on a wood or plastic surface.
6. Maintain the edge! If you have to resharpen a knife you screwed up. Use a good quality stone, steel or ceramic honing tool.