Custom knife makers and blade smiths specialize in producing high quality knives that those who are passionate about knives are getting excited about. Bob Loveless was one of the great pioneers in the industry, so it’s worth discussing a little bit about the part he played in making knives and how he impacted the world of custom knives.

Bob Loveless was an American knife maker, but not just any knife maker. He was known as one of the most innovative custom knife makers. Bob Loveless started making knives in 1954, but his story goes back much further than that.

Bob Loveless History

Bob Loveless altered his birth certificate in his teens to be able to join the Merchant Marine and eventually served on the island of Iwo Jima with the Air Corps. He supposedly became keenly interested in knives after witnessing a host of knife fights in bars at ports overseas. This interest followed him home, and he began making knives after Abercrombie & Fitch told him he would have to wait months to purchase a Randall knife from them.

Custom Maker vs. Bench Maker

Loveless actually didn’t consider himself a custom knife maker. He saw himself as a bench maker because he didn’t take design ideas from customers but made knives from patterns that he had come up with himself.  He did allow customers to decide what kind of material they wanted to be used in the handle. Loveless was innovative in introducing two new kinds of steel to the knife making world, 154CM steel and ATS-34 stainless steel.

The Prime Years

Loveless’ impact on the world of knife making reached its prime in the 1980s. During that time he was even featured in Sports Illustrated Magazine. The article noted that “in the opinion of hunters, guides, collectors, and fellow bladesmen, Loveless is the best knifemaker in the world.” Gerber even made knives based off designs by Loveless.

An Enduring Legacy

Unfortunately, Loveless passed away in 2010, but his legacy lives on as one of the most innovative and creative knife makers in recent history. Custom knife makers have been developing their craft.

Exquisite Knives is among the experts when it comes to Custom Knives. They carry knives from some of the best knifemakers around, including some fine Bob Loveless custom knives. Those who are interested in seeing more can visit the shop here, or even give Exquisite Knives a call at 760-945-7177!