Forged Custom Cutlery & Knives

Humans have been forging iron (and then steel) for over 5000 years! Forging is the process of heating metal in a fire to the point at which it become malleable, and then squeezing, hammering, and pressing that metal into a prescribed shape. 

This ancient trade lends a subtlety to the feel of a blade that is something special. It feels like it wants to cut. The chef's knife feels weightless, the hunter feels alive, the fighter wants to jump towards it's target.

Forging combines industry with artistry. 

Our blades are exclusively high carbon steel. Most often, Zach prefers 80crv2 for monosteel pieces, or 1080+15n20 for damascus.

All blades are fully heat treated in-house, by Zach.

We do not offer stainless at this time, but keep an eye out if you're interested!

While carbon steel will patina (darken) with age and use, orange rust can be avoided by properly caring for your blade! 

Treat your knife as a fine tool; don't ever be afraid to use it. But, when you're finished, keep the blade clean and dry, and oil it every once in a while.

Your Z Tarbell blade can be sharpened on a fine stone, and on a leather strop. 

Don't use a pull-through type sharpener!

Zach offers tune-up sharpening for free, at the shop. If your blade has severe damage or otherwise requires re-profiling, we'll set up a time with you to discuss options.

Never!