Preparation for the Lock-Back.

My name is Aad van Ryswyk, custom knifemaker since 1990.

I was born and raised in the Netherlands, where I live with my wife in a small fisher town called Vlaardingen,

which is nearby Rotterdam, the biggest main port in the world.

I had a technical education and worked for many years in a family business where I was the technical manager.

As a hobby, I used to do sharpshooting, clay pigeon, heavy calibre and revolver shooting. I did this for more than 20 years, and yearly shoot competitions in Bisley, England.

One of my shooting friends had a shop in antique and modern weapons. I developed a growing interest in this

kind of business, and started to help my friend restoring modern and antique guns.

I often visited the IWA. It was there I had my first experience with the world of knives. I was so fascinated, that I started to develop a deep passion for the design and techniques of handmade knives. I took an education course in Berlin, and learned how to polish several kinds of steel.

I bought equipment and expanded my knowledge, learning everything I had to know about knives.

After a long period of study, experimentation and development, I started making knives on my own.

My passion and specialisation is making interframe and Liner Lock folders. The engraved pieces are all one-of-a-kind collector's items.

I always try to distinguish myself by using top quality materials. No knife leaves my workshop without a personal touch. I prefer to work with ATS-34 steel and various patterns of Damascus steel. This in combination with materials like ancient ivory, precious stones and exclusive kind of woods.

A CLOSER LOOK AT AVR KNIVES

Measuring for the Lock-Back.

Finishing touch on the grinder.

Grinding of the spring and blade.

© COPYRIGHT - AAD VAN RYSWYK AVR KNIVES