“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
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
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?
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?
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
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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