Hello fellow Knife Enthusiasts, it is 5 from the Grinder time! 5ftG is KNIFE Magazine’s short format interview series where we ask the same 5 questions to makers all along the spectrum, to gain an insight into the philosophy and thought processes behind the blades.
Today we bring you Mississippi knifemaker Randy Caston, Forged in Fire winner, ABS Apprentice, and a heck of a nice guy whose table I have always enjoyed visiting at Blade Show.
If you are a maker yourself, and would like to be featured in a future installment of 5ftG, click this link for more information
Please introduce yourself and let us know what led you to making/designing knives:
2017 i was watching tv show “Forged-n-Fire” i told my wife “I can do that” the next day i made my first knife. 2019 I went on the show FnF season 6 episode 16 , and became Forge-n-Fire Champion. I was a farrier for 15 + years and welder for years so i knew a little about moving metal. I make using knives mostly, hunters, skinners, every day carry (edc), and little of any kind you want. I now am venturing into the art of engaging. All my knives, sheaves, and engraving is 100% my work.
What knifemaker(s) or designer(s) have had the biggest influence on you? Do you have any mentors?
I like to look at every maker’s knives that i can to learn as much as I can. J W Randall, Jerry Fisk, J R Cook, and few more are makers that i try to study their work to make me a better bladesmith.
What is your favorite knife pattern or style from history?
The Bowie is one of my favorite knife styles. There is so many shape and sizes of the bowie.
What is the next big thing in knifemaking? / What direction do you see the industry going?
My goal is to take it step by step to become a ABS master smith. I will test for JS soon and if successful I’ll have one more step to master.
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?
The drop point bowie with a 3.5 – 4” blade is a knife i sell the most, and carry one myself
What is your EDC and why?
My edc is a 4” blade drop point i use on a daily basis. Skinning, cutting feed sacks, or pealing fruit. Its a good all around knife
Find out more:
Instagram: caston_custom_blades
Facebook: Randy Caston
Phone: 601-551- 51Zero7
Email: Jrcaston(at)bellsouth.net
If you want to be featured in a future 5ftG, click the link below…
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