Beau began making knives in 2023 after a 16 year career in the Australian Regular Army in a very unrelated field to metalworking or similar technical skills. Following a medical discharge, he needed something as a hobby that was productive, challenging and mentally rewarding.

After learning from Tony Docherty (Doco Knives) and Bruce Barnett, two well known WA makers, he went to Japan and spend a short time at a forge in Kochi prefecture, Japan. There, he learned the very basics of forging san mai and mono steel blades. Upon returning to Australia, he has focused on forging Japanese blades using traditional and modern techniques.

Beau predominantly uses premium Japanese steels such as Aogami or Shirogami, with wrought, mild, stainless steel and other claddings. Mostly making his own san mai, he occasionally uses factory-made Aogami san mai billets. He also makes his own Damascus in-house. He also uses other high carbon steels such as 1084, 15N20, 80CRV2, Apex Ultra and 26C “Spicy White” depending on the requirement.

He prioritises sourcing as many tools and materials as possible from Australian-owned and manufactured businesses, especially when it comes to timber. Using both seasoned natural timbers and stabilised woods, he supports local makers by buying ethically sustainably sourced Australian timbers.

Salvage and recycling play a key part of his making process, with antique wrought iron and older steels being frequently used as cladding materials. Reclaimed timbers such as old-growth Jarrah and other increasingly scarce species are given new lives as handles on heirloom pieces.

Beau continues to pursue bladesmithing as a hobby and artistic outlet due to its mental health benefits, strong sense of community and as a form of artistic expression.

Beau hates AI and computers and still takes pride in basic literacy and writing skills; however, acknowledges that his website design and IT skills remain horrendous. Please contact him with any issues and he will try and fix it by head butting his computer.