Meet Master Knifemaker Raleigh Avery
Handmade Knife Trunk Show September 19 Third Thursday Art Crawl
Step into the world of handcrafted excellence as Raleigh Avery brings his extraordinary knives to Hamilton Williams Gallery. Don’t miss this chance to see Raleigh in person and add a one-of-a-kind piece to your collection. Mark your calendars for September 19th, 4-7:30pm, in Downtown Morganton!
The air in Raleigh Avery’s studio hums with the rhythmic clang of metal meeting anvil, a sound that echoes the age-old craft of blacksmithing with a modern twist. The forge, a glowing mouth of intense heat fueled by natural gas, casts a warm, flickering light across the workshop. It’s a place where raw steel is transformed into blades of remarkable beauty and utility.
As you step inside, the first thing you notice is the smell—a mix of hot metal, oil, and the earthy scent of hardwoods that will eventually become handles for Raleigh’s knives. The workshop is a blend of organized chaos, with tools meticulously arranged on walls and benches, each within arm’s reach for the precise moment they’re needed.
Raleigh stands at his anvil, a hammer in one hand and a glowing piece of steel freshly pulled from the forge, gripped with tongs in the other. His movements are deliberate, each strike a perfect balance of force and finesse. The steel begins to take shape, responding to Raleigh’s guidance like a dancer following a lead. Sparks fly with each impact, briefly illuminating the focused expression on Raleigh’s face.
Raleigh Avery’s journey into the world of knife-making began at the young age of 14. Born and raised in North Carolina, his passion was ignited during a summer camp in high school, where he was introduced to blacksmithing. This fascination quickly grew into a lifelong pursuit. His first knife, crafted as a birthday gift for his grandfather, marked the beginning of a remarkable career.
In 2016, Raleigh founded Avery Knifeworks, transforming his burgeoning hobby into a thriving business. Specializing in custom hunting and kitchen knives, Avery Knifeworks has become synonymous with durability and functional art. Raleigh’s creations are not just tools; they are reflections of his meticulous craftsmanship and artistic vision. Each knife, with its unique design and impeccable finish, tells a story of precision and passion.
By 2020, Raleigh had expanded his venture by opening a showroom in Banner Elk, NC. Nestled in the heart of the mountains that inspire much of his work, this showroom offers the perfect backdrop for displaying his blades. It has become a haven for knife enthusiasts, collectors, and those seeking the ideal blend of utility and beauty. Raleigh’s fiancée, Malea Massey, manages the showroom, ensuring that each visitor leaves with a piece of Raleigh’s artistry.
Raleigh’s dedication to his craft has not gone unnoticed. His skills and passion were showcased during his two-year stint on the History Channel’s Mountain Men. This exposure helped solidify Avery Knifeworks as a name synonymous with quality and craftsmanship. Today, Raleigh’s knives are available exclusively through his showroom and authorized dealers, making each piece a sought-after item for those who appreciate finely crafted tools.
The materials used in Avery Knifeworks are of the highest quality. Raleigh favors steels such as CPM 3V, Nitro-V, 80CrV2, and 1095 for their durability and performance. Handles are crafted from stabilized hardwoods and often incorporate resin for added beauty and uniqueness. Designs like pinecones cast in resin and dyed maple burl exemplify the creativity that goes into each knife.
Back in Raleigh's workshop, rows of completed knives glisten under the lights, their polished surfaces reflecting the dedication and skill poured into every inch. Shelves lining the walls hold raw materials—bars of steel, slabs of wood, and blocks of resin—each awaiting its turn to be transformed into one of Raleigh’s creations.
As you watch, the blade begins to take its final form, each curve and edge a testament to Raleigh’s careful attention to detail. This is more than just the making of a knife; it’s the culmination of years of practice, passion, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. Standing in Raleigh Avery’s studio, you can feel the weight of that journey, etched into every piece of metal he touches.
