John Fitch, MS
![John Fitch, MS](https://s.turbifycdn.com/aah/knifeart/john-fitch-ms-70.jpg)
Arkansas Master Smith John Fitch makes an impressive traditional hand forged custom knife. He learned from the masters and continues to strive for the perfect knife. John takes a good knife seriously and expects it to perform. Big John always places high in the American Bladesmith Society cutting competitions with his knives.
Why make knives? "I make knives because I enjoy the art of hammering steel and seeing what I have accomplished and the sense of pride that the knife I make is dependable and tough."
What is important in a knife you make? "First the durability of the blade is very important. Everything else is a bell or whistle. The knife must be tough and good looking at the same time."
What is your knife making history? "Five years ago I was looking for a knife that could skin three deer and still be sharp- so I made my own."
Knifemaking as an Art? "Art is in the eye of the beholder, everything I do is an example of my artistic insight. Arkansas' history of knifemaking and the heritage of James Black influences my work. I am working to preserve the Arkansas art of making a knife."