Knives Built for Outdoorsmen, Hunters & Collectors — Crafted to Perform & Last Generations.
My name is Jon and I am Gordian Key Forge - a local Illinois bladesmith based in the Midwest. Every blade is handmade by me using high carbon steel and handles made from all types of materials, as you can see by looking at my previous custom knives. No factories. No shortcuts. Just steel, fire, and stubborn attention to detail.
I make each of my blades the best that they can be by using proper heat-treating techniques and providing an edge sharp enough you can shave with, because performance matters just as much as looks. My ability to think outside the box sets me apart from most traditional bladesmiths as my designs and profiles are extremely unique – which means you are getting a custom, high quality, one-of-a-kind piece to add to your collection.
I enjoy further developing my skills by making a variety of sharp things - whether it be every day carry knives, cutlery or swords. My life’s goal is to become a full-time bladesmith so I’m able to do what I love every day.
FEATURED PRODUCTS
Check out my featured blades below or view the online shop for more products.
Craftmanship you can trust - Handmade in the USA
Small Batch - ONLY 1 AVAILABLE
Signed Certificate of Authenticity Included
This blade is built as a no-nonsense fixed blade designed for practical everyday carry and dependable field use. This is my first all leather handle and it really looks sleek and offers such a comfortable grip. To fit my rough style, I used some dye to darken the leather. Its full tang construction and solid grip makes it ideal for bushcraft, field dressing small game, and general utility work. With a protective blackened finish and a custom-molded leather sheath, the Bowser is a reliable companion whether you’re outdoors, on the job, or carrying daily.
This blade has been properly heat treated creating a piece that is extremely durable and strong. I finish off all blades with a leather strop to ensure a razor sharp edge.
SPECS
Profile: Clip Point
Steel: 1095 high carbon
Handle: Stacked Leather
Overall Length: 9.25 inch
Cutting Edge: 4 inch
Blade Weight: 10.30oz
Construction: Full tang
Finish: Blackened blade
Sheath: Hand-molded leather with belt loop
USES
Camp chores and bushcraft
Field dressing/skinning game
General everyday carry for practical use
AVAILABILITY & SHIPPING
IN STOCK — ships in 7 business days within the continental US (tracking provided)
Includes knife + sheath
CARE
Wipe dry after use
Visit our FAQ page for more detailed care tips
Free sharpening for the lifetime of the blade (just pay to ship it to me!)
This bold, cleaver-inspired fixed blade is built for power, precision, and unmistakable presence in hand. Its full tang construction is paired with a sculpted, textured handle, delivering both durability and confident control. Designed to excel in demanding camp tasks, food prep, and heavy utility work, this knife is a striking fusion of performance-driven design and handcrafted individuality.
This blade has been properly heat treated, creating a piece that is extremely durable and strong. I finish each blade with a leather strop to ensure a razor-sharp edge.
SPECS
Profile: Modified Cleaver
Steel: 1095 high carbon
Handle: Textured G10
Overall Length: 15.5 inch
Cutting Edge: 8.25 inch
Blade Weight: 2.04lbs
Construction: Full tang
Sheath: Hand-molded leather with belt loop
USES
Heavy-duty camp tasks like splitting kindling, breaking down small game, and general outdoor processing
Food prep in the field or kitchen, from chopping vegetables to portioning meat
Versatile utility work requiring power and control, including cutting, slicing, and light chopping
Unique collector piece to showcase
AVAILABILITY & SHIPPING
In stock — ships in 7 business days within the continental US (tracking provided)
Includes knife + sheath
CARE
Wipe dry after use
Visit our FAQ page for more detailed care tips
Free sharpening for the lifetime of the blade (just pay to ship it to me!)
Craftmanship you can trust - Handmade in the USA
Small Batch - ONLY 1 AVAILABLE
Signed Certificate of Authenticity Included
Look no further - you’ve found your perfect knife! The Lil’ Rhino is a small but tough fixed blade designed for everyday carry and outdoor utility. Whether it be for handling tasks around the house or while outdoors, this is the knife to use. The Lil’ Rhino is a reliable companion whether you’re outdoors, on the job, or carrying daily.
Showcase your American pride with the beautiful etched American flag! The handle is stacked leather that has been dyed a hint of red. My intricate file work along the spine makes this incredibly unique and showcases my attention to detail with everything I create, which makes it a great piece to add to your collection. This blade has been properly heat treated creating a piece that is extremely durable and strong. I finish off all blades with a leather strop to ensure a razor sharp edge.
SPECS
Profile: Bowie
Steel: 1095 high carbon
Handle: Stacked Leather
Overall Length: 8 inch
Cutting Edge: 3.5 inch
Blade Weight: 7.34oz
Construction: Full tang
Sheath: Hand-molded leather with belt loop
USES
Everyday carry for compact utility
Light bushcraft and camp tasks
Field tasks and general outdoor use
AVAILABILITY & SHIPPING
In stock — ships in 7 business days within the continental US (tracking provided)
Includes knife + sheath
CARE
Wipe dry after use
Visit our FAQ page for more detailed care tips
Free sharpening for the lifetime of the blade (just pay to ship it to me!)
Craftmanship you can trust - Handmade in the USA
Small Batch - ONLY 1 AVAILABLE
Signed Certificate of Authenticity Included
This handcrafted fixed blade blends rugged performance with refined detail, built for those who demand both function and character in their tools. Featuring a full tang construction, it offers exceptional balance, grip, and durability in the field. Designed for everything from light bushcraft to everyday utility tasks, this knife stands out as both a dependable work companion and a one-of-a-kind piece of craftsmanship.
This blade has been properly heat treated, creating a piece that is extremely durable and strong. I finish each blade with a leather strop to ensure a razor-sharp edge.
SPECS
Profile: Recurve
Steel: 1095 high carbon
Handle: Stabilized Burl
Overall Length: 11.25 inch
Cutting Edge: 5.5 inch
Blade Weight: 9.17oz
Construction: Full tang
Sheath: Hand-molded leather with belt loop
USES
Longer and superior slicing
The inward curve helps keep materials like rope or branches from sliding off the edge during a cut, pulling them into the cut for added force
Chopping wood and bushcraft
Skinning and processing game
AVAILABILITY & SHIPPING
In stock — ships in 7 business days within the continental US (tracking provided)
Includes knife + sheath
CARE
Wipe dry after use
Visit our FAQ page for more detailed care tips
Free sharpening for the lifetime of the blade (just pay to ship it to me!)
Craftsmanship you can trust - Handmade in the USA
Small Batch - ONLY 1 AVAILABLE
Signed Certificate of Authenticity Included
This is a fixed blade designed for practical and dependable use. Its full tang construction and smooth handle provide balance and control in a compact, lightweight profile, making it ideal for light chopping, small camp tasks, bushcraft, and general utility work. The intricate spine file work adds a unique handcrafted detail, making this knife both functional and distinctive. With its natural steel finish and a custom molded leather sheath, the Violet Riot EDC is a reliable companion whether you’re outdoors, in the kitchen, or carrying daily.
This blade has been properly heat treated, creating a piece that is extremely durable and strong. I finish off all blades with a leather strop to ensure a razor-sharp edge.
SPECS
Profile: Cleaver
Steel: 1095 high carbon
Handle: Stabilized Burl
Overall Length: 7 inch
Cutting Edge: 2 inch
Blade Weight: 5.43oz
Construction: Full tang
Sheath: Hand-molded leather with belt loop
USES
Light bushcraft and camp tasks
Small cutting and prep work in the kitchen
Utility tasks in outdoor settings
AVAILABILITY & SHIPPING
IN STOCK — ships in 7 business days within the continental US (tracking provided)
Includes knife + sheath
CARE
Wipe dry after use
Visit our FAQ page for more detailed care tips
Free sharpening for the lifetime of the blade (just pay to ship it to me!)
Follow My Journey!
Words from the Field - Customer Reviews
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“I’ve gotten 4 pieces from Jon and absolutely love his work. Been very fun being able to customize my pieces and the quality is top notch. Highly recommend!”
-Steve
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“This was my first time working on a ground up custom and the experience was killer. The fit and finish is on point and the knife stands on its own in my collection.”
-Adam
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“Never had an issue with any of Jon’s work and folks around here really dig it. I’ve cleared brush and cleaned deer and hogs. The machete stays by my side. It’s my left arm.”
– Chris
Come See Me at an Upcoming Event!