| Name | Ross Kettles |
| Brand name | Rossdog Forge |
| Contact Nr | +27796958372 |
| Area | Agulhas, Western Cape |
| ross@nuwejaars.com | |
| 1st knife made | 2016 |
| Part or Full time | Part-time |
| Signature knives | Compact hunters, kitchen knives, EDC’s |
| Signature Steel | Wide variety. Like 1070 and hand forged Damascus most. |
Basic Introduction
I’m a down to earth guy who lives a quiet life. I love the outdoors, dogs and motorcycles. My normal job is a project manager for a conservation initiative.
Favourite Handle Materials
Stabilsed natural wood, deer antler and bone.
Favourite Steel
For forging I like 1070, 1095 and 80CRV2. I enjoy forging my own pattern Damascus with 15N20 and 1070 or 1095. For stock removal I prefer N690 stainless steel.
Signature product
I rally enjoy making compact hunting or EDC knives. I like diffentially quenched blades, and I have a good stockpile of antique wrought iron which I like to use for guards, pommels and bolters. My knives are all practical and affordable. Knives made to be used!
Technical
I believe in function over form, so my designs are simple, practical and strong.
The future
My plan is to do knifemaking/bladesmithing full time once I retire. In the meantime, I am working hard on my quality of finish, and always experimenting with ways to make my time in the workshop more efficient.