Bob Beaty made his first knife in 1982 and has been a full-time knifemaker since 1994. He began by taking a two week forging course from Rob Hudson, after which Rob invited him to remain at his shop and train in the making of damascus. Since then, Bob has received training from Steve Dunn, Ed Caffrey, M.S., Jerry McDonald and Gerome Weinand.

Bob Beaty specializes in hunting knives, but he makes an assortment of unique knives including hunters, utility knives, skinners and bowies, using stainless steels such as ATS-34, carbon steel, and his own carbon steel damascus. Depending on the blade material, he either works with stock removal or forging when constructing the blade. Bob prides himself on his attention to detail, and typically completes his knives with filework and tapered tangs for an excellent feel in the user’s hand. A cryogenic quench during heat treating ensures his blades keep an excellent edge.

Affiliations:

• Montana Knifemakers Association

Awards:

• 2004 – made the 9th Annual MKA Club Knife