Black Dragon Forge stands as one of South Africa's premier bladesmithing operations, founded in 2009 by ABS Mastersmith Neels van den Berg. What began as a passion for traditional blade crafting has evolved into a multifaceted enterprise that serves both knife enthusiasts and aspiring bladesmiths worldwide.
The company has built its reputation on two distinct pillars: manufacturing high-quality tactical and Damascus steel knives, and producing professional-grade bladesmithing equipment. Their product lineup includes practical tactical knives and Damascus steel creations designed for real-world applications rather than mere display pieces. This functional approach resonates with users who demand reliability from their cutting tools.
Beyond finished knives, Black Dragon Forge has become particularly renowned for their gas forges, which have earned widespread acclaim in the bladesmithing community for exceptional durability and efficiency. The longevity of their equipment speaks volumes—one user testimonial notes that "The Black Dragon mk1 postbox forge is an efficient and portable pleasure to work with... very durable," backed by over 11 years of continuous use. Another satisfied customer shared that after buying their forge from Black Dragon, it was "5 years later and still delivering as promised."
The educational component of Black Dragon Forge's offerings sets them apart from typical knife manufacturers. They provide immersive bladesmithing classes led by award-winning instructors, allowing students to learn from masters of the craft. Additionally, they've embraced modern learning methods by offering digital knife design templates and online courses, making bladesmithing knowledge accessible to a global audience.
This combination of quality manufacturing, reliable equipment, and comprehensive education has positioned Black Dragon Forge as more than just a knife maker—they're cultivating the next generation of bladesmiths while continuing to produce tactical knives that meet the demanding standards of professional users and collectors alike.
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