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Well honestly, I don't know where to begin... I have been so busy teaching and filling orders this past month that I feel I'm in overdrive trying to get all my work done. I kept telling myself that I needed to set some time aside to send you all a newsletter, so here I am at midnight penning this update. I think you'll find it as exciting as this month has been for me.

From Monday, April 20~25th, I conducted a Traditional Japanese Bladesmithing Class 302, Forging and Completion of a Damascus Knife. The class was full and went as smooth as silk. Both students came prepared having been exposed to my classes before, and were fully able, under my guidance, to complete not one, but three forge-welded blades.

I was especially proud of them when they ground their heat-treated 161-layer Damascus blades and there was nary a flaw to be found -- perfectly forge-welded Damascus the very first time! Now this may be fairly easy to do with a gas forge and a hydraulic press, but is close to miraculous in a coke-fueled fire and a Japanese spring hammer. By the way, we do it the difficult way for a reason -- it produces superior blades with outstanding cutting capabilities. Here is what the students had to say:

"The 302 class was my second class with Murray, so you already know I think his classes are worthwhile. The class flew by as we progressed from San-mai construction and completed two blades each. We then made a pattern-welded blade, 161 layers with a white steel #1 core. These knives were then beautifully finished with Ironwood handles and brass fittings. I am now prepared to go home and try it on my own.

"I highly recommend this class to anyone seeking intermediate to advanced bladesmithing skills. You will learn from Murray's years of experience in Japan and in the US, bringing together the best of the East and the West." -- John Marcus, Engineer, Carter Cutlery Inner Circle Member

"When the class began I was unsure what to expect and what I would learn. There is such a wealth of information that is a little intimidating at first. We sat down and pleasantly discussed what the course would include. Whenever there was a question, Murray took the time to answer it thoroughly, and then moved on.

"The pace of the course was perfect. I never felt rushed and Murray's patience enabled me to gain confidence as I pressed on. Not only did I finish the course with loads of new knowledge, but also with a much deeper understanding of how Murray's style of bladesmithing all begins and where it comes from. I would attend the class again and intend to attend other classes by Murray as well. I had the experience of a lifetime!" -- John Thurmond, Professional Chef

The next class with opening for students is 101: Forging and Completion of a Personal Neck Knife, June 19~20, 2009. The class is half full and we have room for just two more people. Why not take this opportunity to treat yourself to a bladesmithing experience of a lifetime. Contact me today at 503-816-6556 or by email at murray@cartercutlery.com. See below for the 2009 Schedule. Click on this link for information on our Bladesmithing Courses.

I attended the second largest knife show in the world, The Oregon Knife Collectors Show in Eugene,Oregon, two weeks ago. The show was a huge success for me with many repeat customers and brisk knife sales. The highlight, however, was being a guest demonstrator and having the opportunity to shave with my machete in front of more than 60 people. When I put that huge blade to my throat and began to shave, the room was so quiet you could hear a pin drop! The Lord blessed me with a steady hand and I got an incredible shave, only I quit while I was ahead and didn't bother to lather up a second time to try for an even closer shave. When I finally finished shaving, I thought I could hear some of the audience gasp for air as they started breathing again!

YouTube Machete Shaving Link

My next knife show is the Blade Show in Atlanta, GA, May 29~31, 2009. I'll be shaving with my machete there as well as a guest demonstrator, so come and watch if you haven't seen it yet. I'll be sending out a special newsletter in a week or so all about the Blade Show, so stay tuned for more Carter Cutlery Blade Show information.

One of the most interesting projects I have tackled this year was the reproduction of an ancient Chinese ring knife. I figured that the ancient artifact must have been used and sharpened during its useful life and accordingly forged the reproduction with a wider blade to allow for wear. The hardest part of the knife, believe it or not, was forging the ring.

3,000-year-old Chinese kitchen knife

Murray Carter's Chinese kitchen knife reproduction

The Oregon Knife Show was such an overwhelming success that I have decided to share my good fortune with you all. For the next week, ending on May 7th, 10pm, any order that is placed for either existing products or custom orders, will receive 15% off. This discount applies to all Japanese Bladesmithing Classes as well! Just call me at 503-816-6556 or contact me by email at murray@cartercutlery.com. You can also place an order for existing products by clicking on this link:

Be sure to clink on "PRINT AND CALL" when checking out, so we can factor in your 15% discount when settling the total.

Well, if I don't quit writing here, I'm afraid I'll lose most of you. I'll send you out a Blade Show Special Newsletter in the next ten days. Stay tuned, and try to make arrangements to attend the Blade Show in Atlanta. This year promises to be the best show ever.

Until our next email news,

Stay Sharp and may God richly bless you!

Carter Cutlery

P.O.Box 307
Vernonia, OR 97064
Carter Cutlery ~ Home
Carter Cutlery Products
phone 503-429-0447
murray@cartercutlery.com

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