Ken Richardson began making knives in the early 1990s in the Missouri Ozarks, shaping blades from old saw blades in between horseshoeing appointments. Living with his wife and seven children near the historic Dillard Mill, he set up a forge and began crafting knives one at a time — not as a business at first, but out of passion and practicality. Over time, hunters, trappers, and close friends began to ask for blades of their own. Word spread, and what began as a side project quickly became a family tradition.

Ken sourced 1085 blue tempered spring steel for its high carbon content — known for holding an edge and sharpening easily with a stone in the field. He paired it with naturally shed deer and elk antler, brass guards, and hand-done details like bone carvings and scrimshaw that gave each knife its own character. The tools were beautiful, but always built for use.

Retailers like Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s took notice, and the business grew. But Ken never strayed from his values: no mass production, no shortcuts — just quality, care, and faith at the core of everything. His life was defined by honest work, devotion to his family, and a deep relationship with the Lord. As his family recalls, even with all his accomplishments, Ken was most proud of sharing Christ with the people he met.

Ken passed away in 2015, but his legacy lives on in every blade that bears his name. Today, the Richardson family continues to make knives — and now, antler-handled pens — the same way Ken did: one at a time, by hand, in Missouri. The materials are real. The stories behind them are even more so.