Custom Knives
BUILT FOR YOU
Each custom knife begins with a purpose.
Designed for the way you cook, work, or carry, our knives are handcrafted for performance, balance, and longevity. Every detail – from steel to handle to finish – is selected to create a blade that feels right in your hand and performs the way it should.
The Elements of a Custom Knife
Every custom knife is shaped by a series of choices. Together, these elements define how the knife looks, feels, and performs.
THE VISION
WE START FROM SCRATCH
First, we have a conversation and get to know you, your needs, and your vision. We ask questions, based on this information and our expertise – questions that many people don’t consider, such as care, use, and storage. Next, your maker will sit and hand-sketch your knife while walking you through the options, designing it to be specifically and uniquely yours.
THE STEEL
THE FOUNDATION OF THE BLADE.
We offer a selection of high-performance steels, chosen for edge retention, durability, and ease of maintenance. The two steels we typically use are 52100 high carbon steel and CPM 154 stainless steel. We work in others as well, just ask and we’ll help you out.
HANDLE MATERIALS
WHERE FUNCTION MEETS FEEL.
Choose from resin-stabilized woods and a wide range of man-made materials, including carbon fiber, micarta, and laminate woods. Each offers a distinct look and grip, with stabilized options providing added durability and resistance to moisture and wear.
The Custom Details
BUILT WITH INTENTION.
From blade shape and profile to fit and finish, each knife is tailored to how it will be used. Details such as pins, spacers, and construction style are selected to complement both performance and design.
The Blade Finishes
THE FINAL CHARACTER OF THE BLADE.
We offer a range of finishes – from clean, refined surfaces to more textured or patterned treatments. Each finish not only affects appearance, but also how the blade moves through what you’re cutting and wears over time.
PriCING
Custom knives are priced based on size, design, materials, and the customization you choose. Rather than fixed pricing, we work within a general range depending on your selections. Custom knives can range from $300 to $2,000+, but most are typically $500-$800.
Base Builds, Starting at:
start at $300
start at $325
start at $360
Upgrades:
$50 - $300
$100+
$80+
$75-$100
Each project is quoted individually to reflect the specific materials and craftsmanship involved.
Start a Custom Knife
Custom knives are produced in limited quantities based on our makers’ availability.
If you’re interested in starting a project, reach out to discuss your ideas, preferences, and timeline.
Types of Knives Serenity Makes
Kitchen & Chef Knives
- Gyuto
- Santoku
- Petty or kitchen utility knife
- Nakiri
- Kiritsuki chef knife
- Paring knife
- Steak knives
- Bread
- Boning
- Filet knives
- Sujihiki
- Slicer
- Cleaver
Carry Knives
- Everyday carry (EDC) fixed blade knife
- Utility knives
- Camp knives
- Tactical knives
- Bowie knives
- Drop point
- Heritage utility knife
- Integral Guard fixed blade knives
*each carry knife comes with a kydex or leather sheath
Serenity Non-Custom
Handmade Knives
Interested in purchasing an in-stock Serenity-branded knife? In addition to our custom knives, we also make our own line of knives in our shop. Each is branded by the Serenity bladesmith’s mark and is hand-crafted with artistry and detailed craftsmanship.
CUSTOM KNIFE FAQ's
How long does a custom knife take?
Timelines vary depending on design complexity and current workload.
Can I choose my materials?
Yes. The type of steel, handle materials, finishes, and details are all part of our custom knife-making process.
Is a deposit required for a Serenity custom knife?
Yes, we require a minimum deposit of half the amount of the project in order to be added to a maker’s custom queue.
Do you ship custom knives?
Yes. We ship across the United States.
Can I select which Serenity bladesmith makes my custom knife?
Yes, you can. The timeframe for delivery will be dependent on that maker's current workload.
What types of knives does Serenity create, other than custom chef knives?
We create a wide array of different types of knives – from hidden/partial tang or full tang fixed blades to multiple styles of kitchen, utility, outdoor, and tactical knives.
What if I don’t want to design every aspect of my custom knife?
We will offer our suggestions and recommendations for what would look or function best for you.
Do you make knives out of Damascus steel?
Not currently. However, we sell manufactured Japanese kitchen knives that are San Mai Damascus – meaning they have a homogeneous core and are clad in Damascus.
Is Damascus better than stainless steel?
No, Damascus knives are not inherently better than stainless steel. The issue with modern Damascus steel is that there is more than one metal on the cutting edge of the knife, and one of these materials is usually 15N20, which is nickel alloy and not hardening. So the first time you cut with it, the edge will develop micro serration and continue to wear from then on.
Do you make swords?
Yes, on a case-by-case basis. Russell has crafted several custom swords over the years.