Don Fogg
40Alma Road
Jasper, AL 35501
(205)-483-0822
I have been forging knives fulltime since 1978. It seems an anachronism to choose bladesmithing as a trade, but you can't build a better knife any other way. In the early years, the trend in knifemaking was toward exotic steels and space age materials. I had an opportunity to test many blades and compare them to my own hand forged, carbon steel knives. I have yet to find a knife that will out perform a well forged, properly heat treated, carbon steel blade. They are tougher, sharper, and hold an edge longer than any knife made any other way.
Forging enhances the quality of the steel by refining the grain structure of the metal. It encourages the steel to conform to the shape of the edge inside and out. It is a time consuming process, but it is the essential first step to creating a truly hand crafted knife. I take pleasure in forging and in creating Damascus steels. It is a process that is still mysterious to me and often leads me in new directions.
I prefer to be able to control the hardness of my blades through differential heat treatment. It is possible to have optimum hardness for the edge while maintaining a spring temper for the back of the blade and normalized for toughness in the tang. As with all things, there are compromises and carbon steel blades do have to be maintained. They require no more attention than you would give your gun however and can display character and history.
For several years, I was fortunate to be partners with Murad Sayen and together we crafted Kemal knives. Our work has been featured in books, magazines and major collections all over the world. We strived to create museum quality collectibles and the focus of our efforts was developing the knife as an art form. I still work with Murad on a commission basis. I have chosen to center more on functional knives in my own work and while I do occasionally make creative pieces, it is not the thrust of my business.
I enjoy my work, it is more than making a product, it has been a way of life and a way for me to take my measure. I take pride in what I do and guarantee to give it my best or it doesn't leave the shop.
Presently, I am no longer taking any new orders. I intend to offer knives on an as available basis via this web site under Available These knives will be sold on a first come, first serve basis. If you would like to be contacted when there is a new piece available please Join List and you will receive an email with a thumbnail of the knife available along with a hyperlink to a page with more photos and information about the knife. I am hoping that this approach will have the affect of an online knife show and relieve some of the waiting period.
Don Fogg Bladesmith
dfogg@dfoggknives.com
205-483-0822