Our Founder – Michael Harrison

MICHAEL HARRISON

Master Knife Craftsman & Founder

20+ Years Handmade Excellence . ABS Journeyman Smith

Michael Harrison is the founder and principal craftsman of HM Knives, bringing over 20 years of dedicated expertise in handmade knife design and production. Based in Golden, Colorado, Michael has built an international reputation for creating exceptional Damascus steel knives and custom blades that combine traditional craftsmanship with modern performance engineering.

Professional Credentials

ABS Journeyman Smith

Michael holds the prestigious American Bladesmith Society (ABS) Journeyman Smith certification – one of the most respected professional credentials in knife-making. This certification demonstrates mastery of forge welding, Damascus steel construction, heat treating, blade design, and professional quality standards.

Held by only a small percentage of professional knife makers worldwide.

20+ Years Experience

From his initial journey into knife-making in 2002 through years of continuous learning and refinement, Michael has developed expertise across Damascus steel, high-carbon steel, blade geometry, heat treatment, and custom design. His experience spans thousands of completed knives and satisfied customers worldwide.

Continuous innovation and mastery refined over two decades.

Experience & Background

The Journey Begins (2002)

Michael’s fascination with knife-making began in 2002, when he recognized the intersection of functional engineering and artistic expression. Starting as a dedicated hobbyist, he invested countless hours at the forge, learning the fundamental skills of blade forging, heat treatment, and handle design.

Years of Mastery (2002-2020)

Through thousands of hours of practice and experimentation, Michael developed deep expertise across multiple knife types: Damascus steel folding knives, precision hunting blades, tactical fixed blades, and professional kitchen cutlery. Each piece refined his understanding of blade geometry, steel behavior, and performance.

Professional Recognition (2020-Present)

With formalized ABS Journeyman Smith credentials and years of proven expertise, Michael established HM Knives in 2020 to bring his craftsmanship to a broader audience. His knives are trusted by hunters, collectors, and professionals worldwide.

Craft Philosophy

Michael’s approach to knife making is grounded in three fundamental principles that guide every blade created at HM Knives:

Material Excellence

Every knife begins with careful selection of premium materials. Michael personally sources and tests steel billets and Damascus layers, understanding that superior materials form the foundation of superior performance.

Foundation matters

Functional Design

Each blade is engineered for its specific purpose. Blade profile, weight, balance, and edge geometry are calculated to perform optimally for hunting, kitchen work, tactical use, or other applications.

Purpose drives design

Authentic Craftsmanship

Every knife is hand-forged at the forge, not generated by computer. This approach demands skill, judgment, and personal attention that automated processes cannot replicate.

Hands-on excellence

Industry Recognition

Professional Organizations

Active member of the Rocky Mountain Knife Makers Association, contributing to the professional community and sharing knowledge with emerging craftsmen.

Published Recognition

Featured in outdoor, hunting, and knife publications for innovative designs and exceptional craftsmanship in Damascus and custom blade production.

Global Customer Base

Trusted by enthusiasts, professionals, and collectors across USA, United Kingdom, Canada, and the Gulf region – testimony to consistent quality.

Professional Reputation

Recognized for exceptional customer service, attention to detail, reliable delivery, and expertise in custom requirements and specifications.

HM Knives: Established 2020

After nearly two decades of private craftsmanship and continuous refinement, Michael established HM Knives in 2020 as a professional business dedicated to bringing exceptional handmade knives to a wider audience. The company represents the culmination of 18+ years of learning, experimentation, and mastery in the knife-making craft.

The HM Knives Commitment

Every knife from HM Knives reflects Michael’s personal commitment to excellence. Each blade is hand-forged in our Golden, Colorado workshop using materials personally selected and tested by Michael. There are no shortcuts, no mass-production compromises, and no corner-cutting on quality. What you receive is the direct result of one craftsman’s dedication to the art and science of knife-making.

Ready for Handmade Excellence?

Connect with Michael Harrison for consultations about custom knife designs, blade geometry specifications, steel selection, or any questions about our craftsmanship and production process.

Contact Michael Today

Scroll to Top