A love for the outdoors and being born and raised in the great state of Maine lends itself to using a knife on a regular basis for both chores and recreational activities. I have always enjoyed carrying and using different knives and a few years ago, after purchasing my first custom knife, I decided to try and make one myself. I truly enjoyed the process and challenges and have been making them ever since.
The timing for beginning my knife making journey couldn't have been better for me. I started making knives two months before my son was born. I have always enjoyed outdoor activities that require some degree of travel and time away from home. These interests include fly fishing for brook trout and salmon, archery and hunting, competing in sporting clays, ice fishing, grouse hunting and bike riding. Being away from home for long periods of time in no longer possible or desirable on many occasions with little ones in the house. Now I get to spend plenty of family time at home but also get a little work in the shop done when the kids are asleep or otherwise preoccupied.
For my full time career, I work in the social services field for a company that provides care and support for individuals with disabilities, at home, in their communities and in the workplace. I spend my days with some of the most amazing people, both staff and clients, that I have ever met. The passion for my work is one of the major reasons I don't envision myself making knives full time. However, I am dedicated to consistently making high quality knives for the foreseeable future.
Thank you for taking the time to review the website. If you have any questions or comments feel free to drop me a line. I can be reached via email under the contact tab at the top of the website.
Thanks, John
First and foremost:
The handle materials and adhesives used on these knives are not meant to withstand the harsh environment of a dishwasher. Putting these knives through a dishwasher will void the warranty.
General Care
Non stainless knives take some additional care and attention but reward the user with a keener edge and a much easier edge to sharpen and polish. The knives should be hand washed and dried as soon as possible after each use. The knives should not be left in the sink or wet after use or they may rust. Although rust can be effectively cleaned and the blade restored, it is much easier to just prevent its formation.
Patina
A patina will form on the blade steel with use. It is completely harmless and actually serves to form a protective barrier for the steel that can result in rust protection over time. The patina can be left intact or polished off with a mild abrasive paper or sponge.
Handles
Handles can be oiled with mineral oil on occasion if desired. Allow the oil to sink in for a few minutes to half an hour and then wipe dry.
Sharpening
Knives will need to be honed, stropped or sharpened to maintain optimum cutting ability. The web is filled with helpful information or you can contact me at mvra@myfairpoint.net or JMJones Knives on Facebook for recommendations.