Design Philosophy
I originally started Okuden in late 2000. to make custom knife sheaths. The idea was that if folks would buy a high end knife, it made sense that they'd want a high end carry system for it. As it turned out, that was a pretty good plan. In 2005, I got REALLY tired of a couple close friends nagging me to start making knives.
A good friend (Frank) had commissioned a journeyman knife maker to build the first "Sharp Thing". While the fit and finish were excellent, the grinds and overall balance were not to specification. So, having been harassed for several years, I decided to make the thing myself.
I'm very fortunate to live in the PNW where custom knife makers kinda grow on trees. My first encounter with one of these guys was at a local gun show. A kind gentleman picked up one of my knives and after a quick examination, suggested that I grind edge up and put my left foot forward a bit when grinding from that side. I thanked him and watched him walk away. I was sharing a table at that show with a buddy, and he immediately said "do you KNOW who that WAS?" I said "no..." He then informed me, "THAT was Phil (freakin') Boguzewski!" Since meeting Phil at that first show, I've been blessed with the friendship of other Knife Makers who have always been ready to answer my questions, offer advice and make me laugh on a regular basis.
Why do my knives look the way they do?
- I believe in a function first approach. It has to do the job for which it was intended be it a single task or many.
- It must be strong enough to do its intended job and then some, but you shouldn't need to hire someone to carry it for you.
- It needs to be "Pretty enough to attract money but Ugly enough to use."
- Good Steel: A-2 tool steel has an excellent balance between toughness and wear resistance (hard to break and stays sharp) and is cost effective.
- Good Heat Treat: Paul Bos Heat Treat has been bringing out the best in a variety of steels for decades
- Good Geometry: This includes both the blade AND the HANDLE. The blade MUST cut and the handle MUST be comfortable and allow good control of the blade.