Jason Knight Forged In Fire: Life Story Of Master Bladesmith

“Jason Knight is the ABS Master Bladesmith and the former judge on Forged in Fire. Jason Knight’s Forged in Fire journey was not the best experience of his career. Despite his departure from the show, Jason continues to share his knife-making expertise through his own YouTube channel”

If you’re a fan of bladesmithing and the popular TV series Forged in Fire, you’ve likely come across the name “Jason Knight.” Jason Knight is not just an ordinary Bladesmith; he’s an ABS Master Bladesmith and a beloved judge on History’s Forged in Fire.

Jason Knight became a familiar face to fans of Forged in Fire when he joined the show as a judge in Season 3. However, after a brief appearance in Season 4, he left the spotlight.

Let’s dive into the early life and reasons behind Jason Knight’s departure from Forged in Fire and discover what he’s been up to since.

Quick Facts

Full Name Jason Thomas Knight
Nickname The Kid
Age 58 Years
Profession Master Bladesmith, Designer and Consultant
Known For Being a Judge in Forged in Fire
Place of Birth Charleston, South Caroline, USA
Date of Birth 25 September 1966
Current Residence Harleyville, South Carolina, Charleston
Zodiac Sign Cancer
Nationality American
Ethnicity White
Religion Christianity
Height 5 Feet 11 Inches
Weight 89 Kgs
School/College St. Georgia High School

Who is Jason Knight Bladesmith? Early Life And Background

Early Life And Background
Source: YouTube

Born on September 25, 1966, in Charleston, South Carolina, Jason Knight’s love for forging was evident from a very young age. Growing up, he immersed himself in fantasy worlds inspired by Edgar Rice Burroughs’ books, donning costumes and engaging in imaginative games with his cousins.

His parents were incredibly supportive, and he began thoughtfully crafting knives while attending St. George High School. He showcased his creations at the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition each year, impressing fellow knife makers and collectors.

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Jason Knight’s Bladesmith Journey and List of Awards

Journey and List of Awards
Source: Winkler Knives

Jason faced challenges in his pursuit of becoming a Bladesmith, particularly in the 90s when Bladesmithing wasn’t considered a reputable profession. Despite the discouragement, he remained steadfast in his passion.

Thanks to his grandmother’s encouragement, he enrolled in the American Bladesmith Society in 2001, where he learned the art and science of blade-making. After graduating, Jason became an educator, passing on his knowledge to aspiring smiths at various colleges and schools.

His dedication to his craft led him to participate in competitions, eventually earning recognition and accolades as one of the best knife makers. This success catapulted him into the limelight and caught the attention of the producers of Forged in Fire, leading to his role as a judge on the show.

Jason’s talent and artistry have consistently impressed the bladesmithing community, earning him accolades in various categories and competitions. Each award is a testament to his skill and passion for creating exceptional hand-forged knives, solidifying his position as a respected figure in the bladesmithing world.

No: Year Awards From
1. 2001 Best New Maker Blade Show West
2. 2002 South Carolina Knife of the Year South Carolina Association of Knifemakers
3. 2003 ABS Journeyman Rating American Bladesmith Society
4. 2004 Best Non-Damascus Hand-Forged Blade Show and International Cutlery Fair
5. 2004 BLADE Handmade Award for Best Non-Damascus Hand-Forged Knife Blade Magazine
6. 2006 Best Fighter Arkansas Knife Makers Association Show
7. 2006 BLADE Handmade Award for Best Fighter Blade Magazine
8. 2007 ABS Mastersmith Rating American Bladesmith Society
9. 2007 B.R. Hughes Award American Bladesmith Society
10. 2008 Best Fighter Arkansas Knife Makers Association Show
11. 2008 Best Bowie Blade Show and International Cutlery Fair
12. 2008 Bill Moran Award American Bladesmith Society
13. 2008 BLADE Handmade Award for Best Bowie Blade Magazine
14. 2010 Battle of the Bladesmith Champion ABS Great Smoky Mountain Symposium
15. 2012 Best Bowie Blade Show and International Cutlery Fair

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Why Did Jason Knight Leave Forged in Fire?

Leave Forged in Fire
Source: BLADE Magazine

Despite his popularity on the show, Jason Knight decided to leave Forged in Fire due to a less-than-ideal experience. While the decision saddened many fans, Jason continues to focus on his craft, teaching others and creating exceptional blades.

Jason Knight has dedicated his life to his craft and has earned recognition and awards for his exceptional work as a Master Smith. While Forged in Fire provided a significant platform for exposure, Jason’s true passion lies in being known for his craftsmanship rather than a TV show.

On his Instagram, you won’t find any mention of Forged in Fire; instead, he focuses on his own YouTube show, sharing his skills and knowledge with his audience.

In an interview with Fans of the Forge, Jason expressed that the experience on Forged in Fire wasn’t entirely fulfilling for him. He believed that the show, produced for entertainment, could only partially capture the essence of the craft.

Though it inspired aspiring knife makers, he felt that essential details and techniques needed to be included, preventing viewers from fully grasping the intricacies of the art.

His Support and Advocacy for Craftsmanship

Aside from his concerns about the show, Jason Knight advocates for supporting craftsmen and artisans over mass-produced products found in “big box stores.” He encourages people to embrace the role of makers, emphasizing the value of unique, handmade creations over generic, mass-produced items.

Jason contrasts the two approaches by comparing the TV production companies to “big box stores” and craftsmen to mom-and-pop shops. He believes that craftsmanship deserves appreciation and recognition, and the focus should shift from commercialized goods to the artistry and skill of individual artisans.

What’s His Stance On Forged in Fire’s Production Team?

Forged in Fire’s
Source: Knight Forge Studio

While Jason appreciates Forged in Fire’s exposure to knife-making, he candidly referred to the show’s producers as “snakes.” He revealed they would approach him to discuss various ideas, using his insights and expertise to craft entertaining challenges for the contestants.

Though the exposure benefited his craft, he also expressed disappointment that his ideas were often manipulated or exploited for entertainment. At the core of it all, Forged in Fire remains a TV show geared towards captivating audiences, even if it means sacrificing some authenticity.

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Jason Knight’s Net Worth And Financial Stats

As a renowned Bladesmith and television personality, Jason Knight has amassed an estimated net worth of approximately $3 million. His skill, talent, and appearances on Forged in Fire have contributed significantly to his financial success.

Estimated: Net worth Approx: $3 Million

Jason Knight’s Personal Life: His Family

Personal Life: His Family
Source: TVShowcast

While Jason Knight’s professional achievements are noteworthy, his personal life is just as intriguing. At 56, he continues to excel in his career, with his passion for forging knives as strong as ever.

Jason is married to Shelly Knight, and they have a daughter named Tigerlily Knight. Although Jason keeps his private life relatively low-key, his love for his family is evident, and they reside in Harleyville, South Carolina, while his family remains in Charleston.

Marital Status Married
Spouse Shelly Knight
Children Tigerlily Knight

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