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Khalsa Kirpans

The Exceptional Handmade Knives, Swords
and Kirpans of Jot Singh Khalsa

Adi Shakti

Technique

My knives and swords are hand-made and custom made. I employ the stock removal method in grinding blades, and all other processes are done completely by hand, utilizing a variety of tools and machinery.

My style is original, often classic and contemporary. I create designs with both a visual and practical aesthetic in mind. My knives, swords and Kirpans (sacred Sikh knives) fit the hand comfortably and have good balance. My years of training in gold and silversmithing and metalsmithing in general provide me versatility in incorporating numerous possible elements into my designs. This can work to also include your concept in something unique, original and wonderful, for you and your family to treasure. I often combine precious metals and natural gemstone materials, accented with precious or semi-precious gems. Utilizing these materials requires special skills and experience to master.

For about 16 years I forged my own Damascus steel. Because the pattern-welded Damascus steel-making process can produce noxious fumes, since around 1999 I’ve chosen to purchase my Damascus steel from several reputable gentlemen who make it for a living. Most I use these days comes from Robert Eggerling, Devin or Rob Thomas, and Mike Norris, each an innovator in their own right. A variety of sophisticated patterns in stainless steel damascus, and high carbon steel and nickel damascus are available. Of course even though I'm purchasing these Damascus steel bars and plates from others, I still fit, shape, grind, harden, temper and do all the final finishing and etching of the blades.

My preferred handle materials are often minerals with their unique colors and patterns, which best serve when they have the right 'temperament' for a knife, sword or Kirpan handle and/or scabbard/sheath. This requires a certain toughness and include jades, jaspers and agates (available in many patterns and colors). Sugilite, lapis lazuli and turquoise are other beautiful rather rare minerals I utilize that require more diligent care in design and handling. I also use natural mother-of-pearl regularly (gold lip, white, and black), abalone, ancient ivories, and highly figured hardwoods. I’m happy to consider the use of other handle and/or sheath materials for your special project.