About Graham Knives

Gordon Graham - The Knife Maker from Bowie County 

  Thank you for showing interest in my web site.  My name is Gordon Graham and I am a Journeyman bladesmith with the American Bladesmith Society.  I am a native Texan of Bowie County, which is located in the northeast part of the state.  This area is rich in the history of James Bowie and the knife that was named after him.

    My adventure into bladesmithing began in 1980 when I put together a blacksmith shop.  At first I fashioned 18th century reproduction ironwork.  Things like fireplace tools and anything to do with a serious black powder shooter.

    In May of 1984 I attended the first Piney Wood Hammer-in which was held in Old Washington, Ark.  It was at this meeting that I met Bill Moran and the three other founding members of the American Bladesmith Society.  There were many of the soon to be great knife makers present. It was the beginning of my quest for a craft that has brought much satisfaction in my life.

   In early 2001 I began attending monthly meetings at Al Lawrence’s knife supply in De Queen Ark. There are many Master smiths that teach each month on aspects of proper knife construction.  Masters like Jerry Fisk, Mike Williams, J.R. Cook, Jim Walker, Roger Massey and Jerry Lairson give their time and talent each month.  I would like to give credit to two bladesmiths, Charles Stout and Mike Ruth who made a tremendous impact in helping me accomplish a Journeyman level in the A.B.S. in June 2006.

   I currently produce knives made of 5160 and 1080-tool steel.  I forge my own Damascus, which is made of 5160 - 15n20 and 1080 - 15n20.  Handle material varies from dessert ironwood, burl maple and stag.  I like to use stainless steel for my hardware, but I also use nickel silver and wrought iron.  All of my knives are performance tested before leaving my shop. Some have been field tested by professional outfitters in Colorado.  The results were excellent.

   My desire is to always improve my skills and to be elevated by the association of the many great bladesmiths in my region.  Someday I hope to be one of the Masters.