Hawk Knives delivered deeply sad news to the knife world yesterday: Grant Hawk, one of the most innovative, boundary-pushing knife makers of the 20th century, passed away earlier this month at the age of 82.

That notice was delivered with elegance honesty, testifying to Hawk’s adventurous spirit creative energy. He rambled and learned, spending time in Boise, then traveling out to California, and eventually returning to a secluded teepee in a phase that marked a shift in Hawk’s life in more ways than one:

In his seclusion, living in a teepee, Grant’s interest in gold prospecting blossomed. This pursuit marked his gradual reintegration into society and laid the groundwork for his future endeavors. It was during this period of reflection and growth that he discovered his true calling in knife making.

Alongside his son, Gavin, Grant embarked on a remarkable journey in the world of craftsmanship. Together, they forged a path in knife making, combining adventurous spirit with his innate skill and creativity. Their collaboration led to the creation of unique and innovative designs, earning acclaim in the knife-making community.

Regarding those unique and innovative designs, there is far too much to say than this obituary permits. Hawk Knives is probably best known for the Deadlock OTF, but that’s truly just the tip of the iceberg: there’s the Ti Lock, a legendary Chris Reeve Knives collaboration, the Hawk Lock, even a riff on the classic utility knife with 2022’s ShortCut; the list goes on. And according to Hawk Knives, the master managed to wrap up an opus of a very different sort before his final illness: “His final accomplishment was completing his autobiography, which he delivered to the printer just two days before his passing.”

We encourage you to read the full post over on the Hawk Knives Instagram page, which also contains details about the service this weekend in Idaho City. Rest in Peace Grant, the world is poorer without you in it.

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