Welcome To Rhea Knives
Hand-forged traditional designs
WELCOME
My name is Lin Rhea (pronounced “Ray”) and I am a Master Bladesmith. I live in Arkansas, the heart of the custom knife making world.
My knives are hand forged in the manner of old world craftsmanship. I do not farm out any aspect of my knives…every part is handmade by myself. I am a member of the Antique Bowie Knife Association, American Bladesmith Society and the Custom Knives Collectors Association.
If you have any questions, would like to have a custom knife made or just want to say “Hi” please go to my contact page. Feel free to look around at my videos and get to know me and my knives.
THE “X-RHEA” KNIFE
My X-Rhea knife. It is my unique design of one piece forged from carbon steel knife.
This concept is inspired by things I’ve learned from my time as a historic blacksmith. It’s development is a fine exercise in hammer control for the smith, yet it produces a strong, beautiful and unique knife.
SMOKE SIGNALS
Articles and tales from the forge
The Gibeon Bowie Project
It was the the Fall of 2012. My wife Kay and I were visiting North West Arkansas. Among our stops was Eureka Springs, a small town known for its scenic beauty and where history and nature are crammed into a compact space. Some of the homes and shops seem...
Exhibiting at the Atlanta BLADE Show
After missing a couple years of Blade Shows Kay and I were in high anticipation to see our friends and enjoy the buzz of one of the largest knife shows on the planet. From the moment we arrived at out hotel we began seeing familiar faces in the lobby. We...
The Challenge of Forging Simple
Many are aware that one of the treasures of the South is the Historic Arkansas Museum located in downtown Little Rock. As the resident historic blacksmith, I have a rare set of circumstances that allows me to work in a unique setting; an 1820-60’s...