Customer Reviews

Moran: Fire and Steel

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For custom knife collectors and makers this book should be considered along with Master of the Forge and the 50 Year book. All three document the work and some of the life of Bill Moran - sometimes known as the father of modern day knifemaking (or at least modern era damascus blades). Bill is a founder of the American Bladesmith Society. He was also instrumental in the formation of the Knifemakers Guild and has served on their board of directors. More times than not, his knives sell at prices in the 10 to 15k range some higher, some lower. The book has a few personal anecdotes mixed in with the text and pictures broken for the most part in chapters that cover time periods of Moran's 50+ year history as a knifemaker. Quoting from the books epilogue: "I have tried to portray William F. Moran, Jr., as I see him --- neither saint nor sinner. A man who, to a remarkable degree, has focused his considerable energy and talent toward one task. That chosen task is to make better hand-forged knives. While others talk about changing careers, he tries to improve his chosen profession." (Wayne V. Holter).

To this day Bill leaves a trail of creativity and knowledge in his wake wherever he seems to journey.