Straightforward, without detours. Minimalist, with an impulsive character. Timeless – in time with eternity. Ramon Chaves' knives combine the finest materials and top performance with a timeless, uncluttered design. The American custom knifemaker with Mexican roots has long since made a name for himself in the international knife scene – not least thanks to his unmistakable skull clip as a trademark. Despite all the success with his company, Chaves Knives, the designer remains humble and grateful. Ramon Chaves reveals below what advice he still follows today and why the Böker Mini Redencion brings his journey full circle.
How did you first come into contact with the topic of knives?
Basically, it started in the classic way, like most people do, through family. My father never left the house without his three-bladed knife. I watched him in awe as he used it almost daily to cut out the beautiful lighthouse logo from the front page of our local newspaper. I was maybe three or four years old at the time. When he gave me my first pocket knife—it was, no joke, a Böker Tree Brand slipjoint —the fire was truly ignited within me.
When did you design your first knife?
I was in 10th grade at the time. After finding a knife that my uncle had made as a wedding gift for my parents in the 1950s, I began designing my first knife.
How long have you been working as a custom knifemaker?
Since then, I've occasionally made a few knives, which I've given away or even lost. In 2010, a friend approached me with the request to make a knife for him, which he was also willing to pay for.
What does your professional background look like so far?
After graduating from high school, I worked a variety of jobs to get by. I eventually settled down at the BNSF Railroad Company, where I most recently worked as a train conductor.
Is there someone you would describe as your mentor?
That would be an overstatement, since I'm mostly self-taught. As I started attending more trade shows, I regularly met some good friends from the knife-making scene who gave me some valuable tips on building a folding knife.
What do you see as your greatest talent as a knifemaker?
My designs are consistently characterized by a minimalist and straightforward concept, completely without frills. Less is more here too, which doesn't necessarily make things easier.
Where do the ideas for your designs come from?
The source of my work is the concept of timelessness, both as inspiration and aspiration. That might sound philosophical, but I see it quite pragmatically. Firstly, this applies to the construction and the choice of materials, which, with proper care, ensures that my knives become lifelong companions. Secondly, my designs are intended to be timeless and not merely representative of a specific era.
What do you like most about your job?
What could be better than exchanging ideas with like-minded people who share the same passion for knives? And when I see that my knives are not an end in themselves, but inspire people all over the world, I feel affirmed in my calling.
Where should you start if you want to make your first knife?
Although I mentioned earlier that I didn't have a mentor, shortly after finishing my first knife I met Joseph Cordova, a master blacksmith certified by the ABS (American Blade Society). I asked him if he could take me under his wing, but he politely declined. He liked my designs nonetheless and gave me a crucial piece of advice: "Stay away from cheap materials, use only the best for your knives!" I can only echo that.
What does a typical workday look like for you?
Since my knives have increasingly become mass-produced, you're more likely to find me behind the computer than at the grinding wheel. This is necessary, but not necessarily fulfilling. Because deep down, I'm still a custom knifemaker who loves and appreciates the good old craft of knife making. Therefore, in the future, I will dedicate myself more to individual, custom-made projects.
Can I simply order a custom-made, handcrafted knife from you?
No, unfortunately I currently have neither the capacity nor the time for that.
What projects are you currently working on?
I'm currently developing a more affordable line of my original designs. But always with Joseph Cordova's famous motto in mind: "Don't use shit materials!" The best quality for the money, nothing less, is the guiding principle here as well. Most recently, I collaborated with Böker to develop the compact and powerful Mini Redencion, a passion project in a way, a thank you for my very first pocket knife, which sparked my passion for knives.
Do you sometimes get fed up with knives?
Not at all. A passion for knives is my mother tongue.
What about your wife? Does she share this passion?
No, she's rather reserved when it comes to knives. But she loves our business and interacting with our customers all the more.
Do you still have time for other things besides your demanding job?
Spending time with my wife Lorrie is my top priority. My second great love is my company, Chaves Knives.
What's the best way for you to switch off in your free time?
Due to my job, I don't have much free time at the moment. Therefore, I spend almost every free minute with my wife.
Do you have any other hobbies that have nothing to do with knives?
Yes, I am a passionate weapons collector.
What are you absolutely unable to do?
Nothing comes to mind right now. I would say formulating spontaneous answers when you have absolutely no clue.
What would you even get up in the middle of the night for?
If my family or friends need help.
Is there anything else you'd like to say to our customers?
My wife Lorrie and I are grateful to each and every one of you. After all, it is you who ensure we have food on the table and a roof over our heads. For this, we are deeply grateful.
Thank you for the interesting insights you have given us into your work.