This is always a great discussion topic. Found several great makers from these discussions over the years. Funny thing, when I look back to the last one I participated in on here it's sad how many of my favorites from back then have either died, retired, gone broke, or gone off the deep end...

The constants though are Gene and Phil. Can't say the good things as well as others have said about Gene above, but wish to add a big "plus one". I probably have more of his, and have given more as gifts, than any other maker, and the performance to effort, (ie sharpening/care/etc.) are the reason. Plus he's always a pleasure to deal with.

Phil's also a super guy. His knives though, are not for the casual user as said above, but they ARE the pinnacle in performance.

"Double Whammer" set from Phil. Sorry mine aren't very pretty anymore...it ain't the years it's the miles...

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Last edited by Journeyman; 02/28/19.
You can no more tell someone how to do something you've never done, than you can come back from somewhere you've never been...