Ken Hall’s process of crafting Scottish-style knives begins with forging a 5,000-layer Damascus billet or shaping a solid steel bar beneath the rhythmic blows of a power hammer. After meticulous heat treatment and polishing, the blade begins to reveal its final form. Ken crafts the handles from traditional bog oak or exotic woods, often intricately carved with Celtic motifs that echo ancient traditions. Bolsters and pommels, made from stainless steel or bronze, create a seamless transition between blade and handle. Many of his knives are crowned with a semi-precious stone set into the pommel—an elegant final flourish.
A professional engineer by day and American Bladesmith Society Journeyman Smith by passion. Ken is also a member of the Southern Highland Craft Guild, showcasing his Scottish knives at the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games and online at KenHallKnives.com. Ken’s work exemplifies precision and dedication, ensuring that every blade he creates is a masterpiece of both form and function. From his forge in Waynesville, North Carolina, Ken’s hammering resonates through the cove—an echo of his ancestors and the enduring spirit of the Highlands.
For those who cherish heritage, history, and artistry, Ken’s blades are more than just knives; they are stories forged in steel, bridging the gap between Scotland and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
