Blades of glory
Ever since I was a kid I've loved pocket knives. Something about the mechanism, the satisfying click as the blade opens up fully, or clunks back into the handle. Over the years I've had plenty of them, from Swiss and British Army knives to basic penknifes, from Leatherman Multitools to Japanese folding knifes. I still have all of them, but I've never been able to find the knife that takes me back to my childhood, that feels handmade and authentic.
A few years ago I came across a beautiful brand out of Sheffield, Michael May Knives Ltd. Michael has been making knives for years, but set up on his own in 2007. He uses traditional methods and crafts beautiful knives from his workshop at the legendary Portland Works in Sheffield.
Michael studied under Keith Morby, honing his skills as an expert craftsman. Expert cutler Trevor Ablett was retiring and selling off his equiment including patterns Michael uses to this day.
Knowing how much I admired the brand, my (Adult) kids chipped in and ordered me a bespoke knife from Michael, a beautiful, ergonomic design with a lambsfoot blade and a Yorkshire oak handle. It's one of my most treasured possessions.
The whole process of ordering a knife is enjoyable too, choosing the style of knife, the handle type, the blade style and any enhancements, and the knife gets better with age.
Take a look at the website and order one for yourself.
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