Category: The Best Bushcraft Knives

The Bark River Grind In

• Are you a knife enthusiast?
• Do you collect knives like some people collect sports cards?
• Are you wanting to explore a career in knife making?

If so, you should look into Bark River Knives Grind Ins where you’ll learn to make knives the right way, the Bark River way. First of all, this class is for everyone, who is interested in knives, and not just survival knives as, if you want, you can even make a kitchen knife. The Grind Ins take place three times a year (typically March, June, and September) and you can purchase tickets on a first come, first serve basis. However, according to their website, they sell out early and are nearly sold out in 2019. So, sign up quick if you are interested. At the Grind In you will make a knife to take home with you, for no extra charge, and additional knives only cost $100. The blades and handle, available for the Grind In are available only at this event. So, you will be able to make a truly unique, heirloom quality knife, that you will be proud to show your family and friends. Bark River (taking into account common sense) accepts anyone at any age. (However, it is recommended that children attending be at least nine.) So, this can be a family vacation where you can share your love of knives with your loved ones. Also, this event caters to amateur, professional and seasoned knife makers. The Grind Ins only cost $350, which includes a free knife. (The free knife is limited to a Micarta or G-10 handle with standard pins) You can, however, pay extra if you wish to upgrade. Some of the upgrades available are mosaic pins, deluxe wood, pine cone handles, and more. Extra knives start at $100.

Click the link for an informative article on the Bark River Knife company.

What Can You Expect?

Friday

The Grind In starts on Friday (Around pm) for an informal meet and greet. During this time you’ll be able to socialize with other attendees, Bark River employees, suppliers, and sponsors of this event. You also will be able to look at various knives for inspiration and ideas.  Additionally, you’ll also be served an excellent dinner.

Saturday

The fun starts on Saturday morning, around am, where you will start designing your knife (choosing the handle, pins and deciding what type of knife you are wanting to build,etc.). Afterward, you will start working on your knifes shape and your knives handle. Your knifes shape and the handle finished by noon. Lunch starts at noon and after you return from lunch you’ll start grinding and polishing your knife. Also, of course, all of the above is done under supervision  and instruction. So, don't worry about getting lost. Bark River states that by 5 pm you will have finished your knife. Your knife will also be entered into a competition at an awards banquet where you will compete for the following awards: Builder’s Choice, Best Youth Knife, Top Kitchen Knife, and the most Innovative Knife. On Sunday, you can go home or you can make another knife. (However, you’ll have to finish by pm.)

Grind In FAQ

Who do I contact if I’m interested? Bark River Knives – Attn Trisha 6911 County 426 M.5 Road Escanaba, MI 49829 (906) 789-1801 or go to https://www.barkriverknives.com/index/grind-ins/ and look for an interest form to fill out. Who normally attends? All levels of experience knife makers participate from amateur knife makers and hobbyists to seasoned professionals. What is the cost and what do I get? The entire event is priced at a very reasonable $350. This includes a single knife (Micarta of G-10 handle) and standard pins. However, you are able to upgrade. Another knife will only cost you $100. When are they held? Usually, three times a year. (March, June, and September) Do they provide meals during class times? Yes. The $350 price tag includes meals during class time and also you will be served meals at an awards banquet at the end of the class. Is there an age limit? No. Bark River states that they accept anyone, any age. However, they recommend that the child be at least nine years old before they are able to make their first knife under close supervision.  

Youtube

Below is a video of the June 2018 GrindIn