Welcome to the KNIFE Magazine debut of “5 from the Grinder”. It is a short form interview which was developed by David C. Andersen and myself back at the blog The Truth About Knives. Now that the owners of that blog have pulled the plug on TTAK, I have decided (with David’s blessing) to resurrect 5ftG here. You can learn more about it here.
What better way to relaunch the series than by visiting with our friend, KNIFE Magazine Contributor Jamin Brackett of Brackett Knives.
Please introduce yourself and let us know what led you to making/designing knives:
Eleven years ago I became interested in the craft. After meeting the late George Guthrie he started me and walked me through the process. I joined the North Carolina Custom Knifemakers Guild and met many talented makers. In October of this year I retired from law enforcement and am currently enjoying catching up on my backlog of orders.
What knifemaker(s) or designer(s) have had the biggest influence on you? Do you have any mentors?
George Herron, George Guthrie, Russ Sutton, R. W. Loveless, Chris Williams, Darrin Sirois, Tuch’s, Paul LeBatard
What is your favorite knife pattern or style from history?
Simple drop point Hunter
What is the next big thing in knifemaking? / What direction do you see the industry going?
I believe the custom makers will continue to steer the industry through their innovations.
Is there a knife from your lineup that you feel best exhibits who you are as a knifemaker/designer in terms of design elements, aesthetic or techniques used?
I enjoy making one off liner lock folders from scratch.
What is your EDC and why?
Liner lock folder as it is easy to carry and utilize.
If you would like to see more of Jamin’s work, visit his Instagram (@jlbrackett), Facebook Page, or webpage: BrackettKnives.com
If you are a knifemaker who would like to be featured in a future installment of “5 from the Grinder”, fill out our the survey at this link. The password is “grinder”.
If you would like to see all of the original “5 from the Grinder” TTAK posts which have been ported over to KNIFE Magazine, click here.