This week’s interview takes us to a maker who loves history. He selected the name Adamas Forge for a couple of reasons. One is the meaning of the Ancient Greek word Adamas – which conveys the idea of invincibility. This word has evolved through time and is the root for words like diamond, representing physical invincibility, and adamant for mental resolve. He had a recent post on Instagram that goes into greater detail on this subject, so definitely check that out. As someone who loves history this name resonates with me. I am very honored to share some of his story.
To start off, please tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Joel Davey and I am based in Newcastle, Australia
What sparked your interest in knives?
My interest in making knives started with blacksmithing and welding. I began making furniture for my house and enjoyed being able to use my hands to create something useful. I’ve always had an interest in ancient history, so the blacksmithing side really spoke to me. I started forging and making small things and really enjoyed how steel moved and the possibilities it unlocked. I remember needing new kitchen knives at home and figured I would try and make them instead of buying cheap ones. (Easier said than done) But it sparked the obsession.
What inspired you to do this and how did you learn?
I learnt by reading, watching YouTube, and ultimately just trying and failing.
When did you start making knives?
Started making knives in late 2019.
What did you make your first knife with?
The first few knives I used a fire pit in my backyard, a blow dryer for heat, a tree stump with a flat plate of steel, and an old hammer. The steel I used was 1084 and the grinder was just a cheap belt/disc sander combination. Very minimal tools in a tiny inner-city courtyard. The neighbors weren’t very happy with me after that.
Do you have a favorite knife you made, tell me about it?
There are several favorites and it’s a hard choice as each one brings its own challenges and satisfaction. I love making a heavily textured integral with the contrast of a highly polished and refined handle.
What is the most important aspect of a well-made knife?
Without trying to be vague, I think there are many factors that make a well-made knife. A good heat treat isn’t ideal with a bad geometry, and a good geometry is useless with a bad heat treat. Every part of the process plays its part in how well it performs.
What keeps you going?
Turning this into a full-time business unlocked a different type of determination and motivation for me which keeps me going. But mostly the drive comes from a creative aspect to constantly improve and push myself.
Biggest struggle?
My biggest struggle is keeping a healthy work/life balance, I think. Doing something you love as a job is great, though it’s easy to work too much, though that is not necessarily a bad thing either.
What kinds of knives do you make?
I focus on culinary knives but also enjoy making art or historical pieces when I can.
How did your background affect your approach to knives?
I think my interest in ancient history and civilizations shaped the finishes and textures I try to achieve.
Who are your influences/inspirations?
My influences and inspiration come from a lot of medieval and ancient pieces from the Middle East, India, and Europe. Joshua Prince is a big inspiration for forging and being a unique maker. Virgil England is a huge inspiration for designs and creativity.
Any specific breakthroughs or revelations in your knife making journey?
After a while things certainly started to “click” and make sense, which in turn allowed for more freedom in the process and efficiency. But I will never stop learning or making mistakes which keeps it exciting.
What is the perfect knife?
For me the perfect knife is something that works for its intended use and lasts.
How do you approach a new concept and that concept’s implementation?
When approaching a new concept or idea I try not to overthink it at first and just go for it. That’s the only way to really work out the nuances and improve. Each failure is a lesson and after repeating the process enough times it becomes second nature.
How do you approach knife testing?
For testing knives, I use a Rockwell machine, grain checks and performance or destructive testing. I will make some for myself when trying a new technique or steel to test out at home for longevity, edge retention etc.
How do you develop a design, select a steel, and fine-tune a heat treatment?
Steel selection comes down to the customer a lot of the time, though I do prefer simple carbon steels for forging and damascus, etc.
What’s up next for you? Any exciting new projects to tell us about?
I have a few historic/art projects that have been wanting to make for some time. I’m hoping to get a chance to do them soon. Also have been playing around with more fabricating and ornamental iron work which has been fun to mix things up.
To see more of Joel’s work, and keep informed on what he has going on check out his website https://www.adamasforge.com.au/ follow him on Instagram www.instagram.com/adamas_forge or Facebook www.facebook.com/adamasforge
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