Tyler Collins of Black Pine Tool Co. works out of Brewster, Washington in a shop that once belonged to his father. What started as a woodshop for log furniture and other creative projects has been converted into a metal shop focused on knives and the occasional hatchet. Tyler still carries the influence of watching his dad work through the years.
He does not lock himself into one signature design, but his current favorite is a model he calls the Buddy; named that way “because everyone needs a buddy.”
GripX is a regular part of his builds because of its practical grip in demanding conditions.
“It’s perfect for wet work, like filleting fish or skinning out a bear. Any situation you are going to need a sure grip on a knife handle, gripX is the material to use!”
Tyler finishes GripX differently depending on the knife. For fillet knives he takes the scales to a consistent 600 grit and then buffs with Flitz. The result is a high amount of exposed rubber and very aggressive traction. For EDC knives like the 'Buddy' he stops at an even 600 grit finish without buffing, which tones the grip down for everyday carry.
He continually pushes for tighter tolerances, cleaner satin finishes off the grinder, and thinner handles, while trying to introduce something new with each model.
You can follow his work on Instagram at @blackpinetoolco
Glad to highlight another maker who treats GripX as a practical tool for real work.
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