Dark Timber Knives

Dark Timber Knives represents the intersection of traditional bladesmithing and modern manufacturing, founded by bladesmith Peter Kohler who began his knife-making journey out of pure necessity. What started as a personal pursuit has evolved into a respected brand that delivers both full-custom handmade knives and limited production mid-tech lines to outdoor enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The brand's specialization spans custom fixed blade knives, mid-tech production models, and hand-forged blades designed primarily for bushcraft, hunting, and outdoor applications. Dark Timber Knives has become particularly recognized for their distinctive recurve blade designs, which offer enhanced cutting performance for field tasks. This design philosophy combines functional geometry with aesthetic appeal, creating knives that perform as impressively as they look.

Dark Timber's approach to materials reflects a commitment to quality across both custom and production offerings. The brand utilizes premium steels including AEB-L, Nitro-V, and CPM-MagnaCut, ensuring excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance for demanding outdoor environments. Handle materials showcase equal attention to detail, with exotic options like desert ironwood providing both durability and visual distinction.

What sets Dark Timber apart is their hybrid manufacturing philosophy. While maintaining traditional hand-forging techniques for custom pieces, the brand has embraced modern CNC machining for their mid-tech models. This combination allows them to offer limited production knives that retain handcrafted quality while achieving greater accessibility and consistency. The mid-tech line makes Peter Kohler's designs available to a broader audience without compromising the fundamental characteristics that define the brand.

The brand has demonstrated growth and innovation, recently expanding their catalog with multiple new releases that showcase their evolving design capabilities. Whether you're seeking a fully custom hand-forged blade or a mid-tech production knife, Dark Timber Knives delivers purpose-built tools that honor traditional craftsmanship while embracing modern materials and manufacturing precision.