Todd Rexford's fascination with knives began in his childhood, when he accompanied his father to gun shows and exhibitions . His passion for sharp blades eventually led to the desire to make his own knives. Like most knifemakers, he started with the simplest tools and machines, perfecting his unique style over the years . The American from Colorado designs both pocket knives and hunting knives.
How did you first come into contact with knives?
As a young boy, I went everywhere with my father. Every time we visited a weapons show, I was allowed to choose a new knife for my collection. We did this regularly from the age of five or six, and my fascination with knives grew steadily.
When did you make your first knife yourself?
I made my first knife in 2004.
How long have you been working as a knifemaker?
Just one year later, I was able to sell my first knife. 2005 thus marked the beginning of my career as a custom knifemaker.
What profession have you learned or practiced in the past?
I spent a lot of time in my father's auto repair shop and learned how to repair and rebuild cars piece by piece. This also gave me my first experience with machine tools and how to operate them properly. I was so fascinated by it that I decided to...
deepened his knowledge of mechanical engineering at a technical college.
Is there someone you would describe as your mentor?
As a knifemaker, I've taught myself a great deal. But of course, there have also been some wonderful mentors who have inspired me along the way. I'm very grateful to them for that.
What is your greatest talent as a knifemaker?
That's a good question. I would say, to be blessed with the gift of developing good ideas and implementing them in the production of a high-quality product.
Where do these ideas come from?
I can't really say for sure. They just come spontaneously, but funnily enough, mostly when I'm not in the workshop.
What do you like most about your job?
I'm passionate about knife making itself, and it's definitely my calling. But I also love all the knife enthusiasts in the scene. Whether collectors, customers, or other manufacturers – we're one big family.
Where should you start if you want to make your first knife?
Oil-hardened carbon steels are ideal for beginners. Their edge retention and ease of resharpening make them a good choice.
What does a typical workday look like for you?
I get up at 6:30 a.m. and drink my coffee. Afterwards, I go to my workshop, switch on the machines, and gather the necessary parts for the knives I'm currently working on. I also produce components for other ongoing projects in my workshop.
Can I simply order a custom knife from you?
No, my order book has been closed since 2009, and I haven't accepted any new orders since then. Currently, I sell my products several times a year through auctions or giveaways.
Can you give us some insights into your current projects?
I'm currently working on four pocket knives, but these are intended solely for auction or giveaway purposes. This will take about two months. I'm also continuing to refine my modular RDLM locking system.
Do you sometimes get fed up with knives?
No. Some tasks are indeed tedious and tiring, but then I simply concentrate on other things to give my enthusiasm for knives space again.
What about your wife – does she share your passion for knives?
She does, but in her own unique way. Practicality is clearly her top priority. A knife is a versatile tool that's always with her. She wouldn't feel comfortable without it.
Do you have time for other things besides your tightly scheduled workday?
Thankfully, yes. It's very important to me to clear my head sometimes and dedicate myself to other things. I enjoy spending time with my two children, Ben (8) and Amelia (6). We do as much together as possible.
What's the best way for you to switch off in your free time?
I own several shooting ranges where I frequently train to improve my skills. Before our children were born, my wife and I regularly participated in multi-gun shooting competitions. In addition, I enjoy driving my six-year-old truggy, a four-wheel-steer hybrid between a truck and a buggy, on rocky terrain.
Are there any hobbies that have nothing to do with knives?
Especially rock crawling, the off-road fun with my truggy. But knives are always part of the equation and prove to be useful tools for numerous tasks on and off the track. One of my fixed-blade CTU tactical knives, which has proven its worth many times over, is also always with me. I've already been able to demonstrate the advantages of a good knife to many people at the track.
What are you absolutely unable to do?
There's quite a lot. My wife could list many more things, but my talent definitely doesn't lie in fishing or any ball sports (basketball, baseball, football).
What would you even get up in the middle of the night for?
Aside from that, if someone were standing at my door in the middle of the night, I'd definitely get up for a delicious slice of apple pie. A taco carne asada wouldn't be bad either.
Is there anything else you'd like to say to our customers?
May you continue to enjoy these wonderful tools. There's a reason knives have been around for so long, and they will continue to delight many people. Nothing can replace a good knife.