Get to know the bladesmith

My name is Ryan Benes, I built my first knife in December of 2013, out of a broken cold saw blade and ever since that first knife,  I have been hooked. I live in Lewistown, MT with my family were I was raised . I make hunting knives, EDC, neck knives , kitchen knives, and I make my own Damascus.

I was first mentored by Frank Hunter of Black Wolf Armory, Frank took me under his wing and taught me about heat treating and showed me the ropes of custom knifemaking. Several years later I met the world renowned custom knife maker Barry Gallagher who also grew up in Lewistown, MT. Barry is my main contact to bounce ideas off and expand my knowledge base as I advance down the custom knife path.

I primarily use 52100 high carbon steal and  1095 high carbon steel. I use a wide variety of handle materials from exotic woods to g10  I also dye and stabalize my own burl woods.

I have made knives and shipped them from Texas  to Alaska and California to West Virginia, I have built knives for Ranchers, Hunters, collectors, Soldiers, and even a Navy S.E.A.L. 

 I like to support our veterans, law enforcement, and first responders.

I want to thank all of my customers for the support  and continued business. 

"Functional art, meant to  work."