Knives 2023, 43rd Edition: The World's Greatest Knife Book

Entering its 43rd year, Knives continues to set the bar for all knife annuals. With more than 900 striking full-colour images, in-depth features on today’s most skilled makers and a host of reviews and industry information, the 2023 volume is more useful than ever. Diehard collectors on the hunt for their next gem get the inside scoop on the top knifemakers and their creations. Everyday enthusiasts will appreciate the in-depth reviews of top factory blades. And knifemakers get a leg-up in the market through a bounty of industry resources. New to knives or a seasoned aficionado, you’ll find Knives 2023 has something for you.

• More than 900 full-colour photos
• Captivating features on knife making, collecting, designs and more
• In-depth looks at the knives and creators driving today’s knife trends
• Comprehensive directory of knifemakers and companies

About the Editor:

Joe Kertzman served as managing editor of BLADE Magazine for 20 years. KNIVES 2023 marks his 23rd edition as editor. Kertzman also edited Art of the Knife, BLADE’s Guide to Making Knives and four editions of Sporting Knives. He lives in Wisconsin, where in addition to knives, you may find him kicking up his heels, clog dancing to the rhythm of his favourite bluegrass tune.

Table of Contents:

Features
History in the Knifemaking
Ten Knifemakers You Should Know
The Purpose-Built Sub-Hilt
Of Ravens and Cow Guts
Ten Things to Know When Buying an EDC
Art Knife Invitational Celebrates Craftsmanship
Knifemaking Heritage of New England
The Lost Art of Guilloché
Nine Times Knives Saved Lives

Trends Section
Chef’s Knives and Cleavers
Mammoth Ivory Mittfuls
Stag Handle Slip Joints
Wear that Westinghouse Micarta
Rooted in Straight Razors
Hunting Party
A Staple of Maple
LinerLocks and Lockbacks
Bring on the Bowies
Animalistic Markings
Fine-Feelin’ Flippers
Sheathed and Ready
Tough-as-Nails Tacticals
Steeped in Tradition
Pointedly Dirks and Daggers
Refined Folders
International Treasures
Front-Line Fighters

State-of-the-Art Section
Lapidary Loppers
San Mai from the Smithies
Copper in the Cut
Embellished Handles & Blades
Frame-Worthy Engraving
Pearly Inlays and Overlays
Non-Prosaic Mosaics
Highly Scored Swords
Spine-Tinglin’ Scrim
Fluted, Grooved and Gorgeous
Carved Cutlery
Steel Sculptures
Keen Feathered Friends
Indelibly Damascus
Engraved in Gold

Factory Trends Section
Celluloid Spans the Knife Handle Spectrum
Military-Style Fixed Blades
Fixed-Blade EDCs
These Edges are Straight!
Fast-Opening Factory Autos
The Cleaver Class
Big Blade Breakout
Game Tamers
Straight Razors & Cigar Cutters
Custom Knifemakers Directory
Marketplace