I start with 1" high carbon wire rope that I buy straight from the manufacturer. The reason I do this, as opposed to using scrapped cables is because I have no idea the sort of stresses it may have been under and there is no easy method of determining carbon content for hardening. Each knife is forge welded into a solid blade, fully hardened and tempered.
A Maker who has been a valued part of this community for several years.
Customers say that this Maker ships promptly after completing a project.
This Maker has consistently demonstrated excellence in craftsmanship and customer service.
My name is J W Stekervetz, I’m a classic American bladesmith. I create each of my knives using hammer, anvil and the forge. While I have certain styles I’m fond of, each of my knives is unique, forged individually and never exactly duplicated. I use high carbon steels in my blades, not the often brittle stainless steels used by mass manufacturers, the results are pieces that hold their edge, offer superb performance and take on a character all their own with each use. My goal as an artist is to create modern heirlooms, timeless works that while new to this world capture the spirit of early American knives and the inspirational craftsmen that have come before me. I’m a proud member of the Pennsylvania Artists Blacksmith Association, a group dedicated to keeping the old fires burning.
On weekends throughout the year, I teach knife making classes. Weekday classes are available as well by emailing for availability.
I live in Lititz, a small town in Lancaster County Pennsylvania, with my wife Sara, my son Asher and our latest addition, our daughter Alainn. Everything I do is for my family, and while I’m proud to call myself a bladesmith, they have given me the two most important titles I’ll ever have – daddy and husband. We all thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support of my craft.
A guide to the best items from the best makers and the stories behind them.
Scott Pospychalla
For Cable Damascus KnifeSteven Carroll
For Cable Damascus KnifeVery easy transaction timely service and a quality product.
kat reynolds
For Cable Damascus KnifeI couldn't have been happier with my experience with Underhill Forge! My husband collects knives. He particularly loves unique, handmade knives that show the creativity, passion, and skill of the creator. My husband is so happy with the knife I gave him, and we are both looking forward to what other things Mr. Stekervetz comes up with in the future. I am sure this won't be our last knife from Stekervetz. Highly recommend him. I really love and respect people who find something they love and go for it. I really hope things continue to go well for them! Also, shipping, communication, timeliness, everything was great.